The four-year member of a dominant varsity team was a three-time All-Catholic honoree who went undefeated in the 100-yard butterfly during both his junior and senior years. The team captain anchored the freestyle and medley relays and qualified for the National All-Catholic meet in 1973.
Ogiony's reflection:
As I reflect on my life at Canisius and swimming from over 50 years past, I am overwhelmed with feelings of gratitude and appreciation for what they gave me in life. The impact that Canisius, and the people who came into my life because of it, have had on my life is immeasurable. I wanted to take a moment to express my deepest thanks for this great honor.
To my friends, some of whom are here today, Mark, Carl, Chris, Joe, Emmett, Salt, Maura, Linda and the others, you have been my pillars of support, my confidants, and my partners in crime throughout those crazy formative high school years. From the late-night study sessions at Coles to the endless laughter and adventures we shared, I am forever grateful for the memories we created together. Your lifelong friendship has brought joy, comfort, and a sense of belonging, even after I left Buffalo. Also thanks to the guys before me on the swim team who said “this is the way” — Larry Quinn, Peter Quinn, Mark McNamara, Bob and Danny Pollack. And I can’t forget all my other teammates -some of whom went to the Nationals senior year in Philadelphia (where we saw Seals and Crofts the night before the meet— Thanks Coach!), Geoff Klass, Gordie Hirsch, Bill Pericak.
To my swim coaches Ray Gallagher and Patrick Kane and all my teachers at Canisius - especially the late Fr Paul Naumann, Fr. Gerry McIntyre, Ken Durkin, Liz Friedman, Fr. Ed Nagle, Fr. Pat Sullivan...and I cannot forget my absolute favorite — Father John Sturm, my mom’s first cousin who came over to dinner at least once a month as I grew up expounding the virtues of Canisius since I was a little kid. I still believe he took special delight when “Ruthie’s Boy” was given jug. All of them have been more than just mentors in the pool, in class or on the stage - they have been instrumental in shaping my character and instilling in me the values I carry today. I have tried to convey those same values to my boys - including discipline, perseverance and teamwork. Thank you for your patience, for pushing me to my limits, and for teaching me the importance of dedication and resilience.
I can’t forget my parents Ruth and Ed and my brother Dave. My incredible family helped me navigate the challenges of high school and life with confidence and determination. Their encouragement, advice, and genuine care have provided me with a solid foundation to build upon as my life just happened.
In closing, thank you for this honor. And thank you all for being a part of my high school and life journey, for the love, the laughter, the tears, the victories, and the defeats. Thank you for the memories that will forever bring a smile to my face. I am honored to have shared them with you all.
