WILLIAM FITZPATRICK

2005  INDUCTION TO THE RHODE ISLAND AQUATIC HALL OF FAME

            William began his Swimming career as a member of the South County YMCA Seals in 1981. He set many team records while at the Y including the SENECY district league record as a 10-year old in the 50-yard Free (0:28.40)’. In 1987 he joined Little Rhody Aquatic Club, qualifying for the NE Age Groups in both short and long -course with A and AA time standards.

            Wil competed as a member of the Bishop Hendricken High School Swim Team from 1988 to 1991. While at Hendricken, he won the prestigious Paul McDermott award, presented to the outstanding senior-athlete of the ’91 graduating class’. Tradition-ally, this award.is presented to an athlete who excels in more than one sport during their high School career. Occasionally, an athlete’s achievements in öne particular sport are of such magnitude that he deserves the honor of being named the school’s finest athlete. Wii’s achievements in swimming were truly deserving of such recognition. He led the Hawks to two consecutive State Championship titles. Winning seven gold medals at States and setting school records in the 50 (0:22.03) and 100 (0:48.39) yard free. He also swam on the Hawks’ All- State 400-yard Free Relay in 1990 and anchored both the All State 200-yard Medley and 400-yard Free Relays. In 1991 Will was undefeated in the ’91 season winning 4 gold medals and setting two meet records at the Max Read Invitational and Brown Interscholastic Swim Championships.

The URI Fast Lane Club voted Will as the Outstanding Senior Swimmer. The RI Interscholastic Coaches League also selected him as the Swimmer of the Year in 1991.

Will earned a swimming scholarship to St. John’s University, where in his four years, he set team records in the 100-yard free (0:45.85), 200-yard free (1 :41.83), 100-yard back (0:51.61 ), and 200 yard back (1:53:05).  He also swam on four record setting relays.  In the 1994-1995 season, Wil served as team co-captain and was voted team Most valuable Swimmer.

Will is currently living in Bend, Oregon, where he is a marketing consultant for Ben Radio Groups.