It is an honor to welcome you to the 2007-08 athletic season at Canisius High School. As a native of Western New York, I have long admired and respected the tradition of Canisius High School and its Athletic Department. I am truly proud to be a part of the academic and athletic excellence here at 1180 Delaware Ave.
Throughout its long and proud history, Canisius High School has embraced a philosophy that a well-rounded athletic program is an integral part of the school's educational mission.
Canisius is proud that a large percentage of its student body participates in athletics. As a Catholic institution in the Jesuit tradition, Canisius promotes the development of the human spirit, mind and body. Canisius Athletics will continue to serve as a vehicle for these qualities, as well as fostering a safe, fun and friendly environment for our student athletes to develop strong character, integrity, loyalty, and a strong sense of team work and sportsmanship.
Students are encouraged to take part in any one of the 18 athletic programs Canisius offers, or, one of the 40 clubs through Student Activities. We feel strongly that our students will not only develop athletic skills by working with our outstanding coaching staff, but also benefit from an athletic philosophy that promotes fitness for life, and a commitment to a healthy lifestyle free of drugs and alcohol.
It is an incredibly exciting time to be a part of Crusader Athletics. In late October, it is expected our new athletic complex on Clinton St. in West Seneca will be near completion. Along with a classroom, the complex will be home to our football, soccer, lacrosse and track and field programs. After many years of searching for home fields to play and practice, the Crusaders will finally have a field to call their own.
The field will be composed of a synthetic surface called A-Turf. It is a surface seen in many college and university fields today. In addition, the eight-lane track along with all of the amenities for field events, will be first class. Lastly, there is no sense in building a multi-million dollar facility that seats approximately 800 without a new scoreboard. This board will have a scrolling matrix to help facilitate all of our sports played at the site and allow for a message center. Once open, I am confident students, faculty, staff, alums, opponents and friends of the program will all be impressed.
The improvements in facilities are only a supplement to the many people who make Canisius special. The people truly make the school a wonderful place to work each and every day. I want to extend my deepest appreciation to the coaches, players, faculty, administration, alumni and fans that have helped make Canisius a first-class program.
Best wishes to the 2007-08 student-athletes and coaches for a successful season. Continue to represent Canisius with class, dignity and respect while demonstrating competitive spirit and sportsmanship. Above all, develop life-long friendships and a true devotion to Canisius in preparation for college and for life.
Sincerely,
James Mauro
Director of Athletics
