Press Release
For
Immediate Release
September
17, 2026
Contact:
Jennifer
Rose
Press
Secretary, Office of Mayor Paul K. Pernerewski, Jr.
Email:
Jrose@waterburyct.org
Hank
O Donnell Hall of Fame to Induct Legendary Official Elmer Deschaine
(WATERBURY, CT
) The City of Waterbury is proud to honor Elmer Deschaine as the 33rd inductee
into the Hank O Donnell Hall of Fame. A Waterbury native and longtime athlete
and sports official, Deschaine has dedicated nearly seven decades to athletics
and made a lasting impact on generations of athletes.
The induction ceremony will take place on Wednesday, September 23, 2026, at 6:00 p.m.
in the Hank O Donnell Hall of Fame Room at Municipal Stadium, 1200 Watertown
Avenue. An outdoor reception will begin at 5:00 p.m.
A Waterbury native and 1957 graduate of Crosby High
School, Deschaine has devoted nearly seven decades to athletics as an athlete,
official, mentor, and ambassador for amateur sports.
At 87 years old, Deschaine continues to contribute to
Connecticut athletics. This fall, he will begin his 51st season as a high school soccer official
with the Western Connecticut Soccer Officials Association. His career also
includes 61 years as a baseball umpire
and 58 years officiating basketball.
Throughout his remarkable career, Deschaine has made a
lasting impact on generations of athletes while exemplifying sportsmanship,
fairness, and dedication to the game.
The Hank O Donnell Hall of Fame honors athletes, coaches,
officials, sportswriters, and others who have made significant contributions to
sports in Waterbury. The City invites the community to join in celebrating
Elmer Deschaine and his extraordinary legacy on September 23.
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