Watervliet to dedicate Harry Tucker plaque during half-time at football game on Saturday, Oct.8

Oct. 3, 2011

The Watervliet City School District Athletic Department will dedicate a plaque in memory of Harry Tucker during half-time at the homecoming football game (Cannoneers v. Taconic Hills) on Saturday, Oct. 8 at 1 p.m.

Like the old 1938 gymnasium, the high school’s new gymnasium—unveiled last February—bears the name of Harry Tucker, a community icon known for his quiet generosity and unwavering support of the city school district’s athletes and athletic programs.

“It’s been said that Mr. Tucker was a patriarch of Watervliet sports,” said Dr. Paul J. Padalino, superintendent of schools. “It’s great to be able to honor a community member who did so much for the city’s young people.”

Tucker, who was captain of Watervliet's 1929 basketball team, was inducted posthumously into the Watervliet Athletic Hall of Fame in 2008.

“After almost 15 years since his death, it is amazing that the mere mention of Harry Tucker’s name still lights up people’s faces and ignites memories of a man beloved,” said Michael Reinfurt, chairman of the Watervliet Athletic Hall of Fame Committee.

This year’s Hall of Fame inductees will be recognized following the plaque dedication at halftime next weekend. The Hall of Fame induction dinner and ceremony will take place the evening of Saturday, Oct. 8 at Michael’s Banquet House in Cohoes. More information

The Harry Tucker gym will be open for 45 minutes following the football game on Oct. 8 to Watervliet sports fans and community members who are interested in seeing the new facility.