Melissa’s dedication to Aquinas continued well beyond her own time as a student. She returned to coach Aquinas cheerleading with unmatched energy and excellence—first leading the freshman and JV teams (1996– 1999), and then the varsity program (2000–2004, 2006–2009). Under her guidance, Aquinas cheerleading flourished, capturing six Section V Championships, three Greater Rochester Invitational titles, and two National Championships in 2004 and 2008. Her impact also reached the broader community through more than a decade of volunteer leadership with Holy Cross CYO Cheerleading (2012–2025) and her coordination of the Terri Masters Memorial Golf Tournament, which raised over $200,000 in support of Holy Cross School. In both her professional and personal life, Melissa has embodied the values of service, spirit, and legacy. One of her most cherished memories dates back to her very first freshman cheerleading practice behind the Basilian House—an ordinary moment that sparked an extraordinary journey. From forming lifelong friendships to mentoring generations of cheerleaders, Melissa’s love for Aquinas continues to run deep. Melissa and her husband, Chris, are the proud parents of their son, CJ, and daughter, Sami. Sami ’31 begins her Aquinas journey, and will carry on the Aquinas cheerleading tradition, coached by the very athletes Melissa once mentored. It’s a legacy that has come full circle—rooted in pride and powered by passion. 2001 & 2002 AQUINAS VARSITY FOOTBALL TEAMS Team The induction of the 2001 and 2002 Varsity Football Teams into the Aquinas Hall of Fame, recognizes not only their historic athletic accomplishments, but also the deep bonds, character, and culture they helped instill in the Aquinas community. These teams, under the leadership of the late Coach David Nieman, achieved what no other football teams in Aquinas history have: back-to-back New York State Championships. Across the 2001 and 2002 seasons, the teams posted an extraordinary combined record of 24–2. They were undefeated at home and dominant throughout the playoffs, including a 56-point offensive explosion in the 2002 state quarterfinals. The teams routed rivals like McQuaid Jesuit and consistently sent players on to play at the collegiate level, while also earning multiple All-Greater Rochester honors. Their on-field success helped cement Aquinas as a powerhouse in Section V and New York State football for decades to come. Coach Nieman, who passed away tragically on September 1, 2024, had a profound impact on Aquinas, its football program, and his players. His time at the helm from 1999 to 2003 left a lasting legacy defined not just by wins, but by the values he instilled: discipline, humility, accountability, effort, and above all, brotherhood. Coach Nieman was known for his toughness and competitiveness, but also for his deep compassion. He had a rare ability to connect with each athlete, regardless of their skill level or role on the team. He preached the importance of finishing what you start, keeping your word, and standing up for one another. Under his guidance, these two teams became more than just winning squads — they became families. The closeness of those teams, and the families that supported them, has endured for more than two decades. Many members of the ’01 and ’02 teams remain connected today, and some are now sending their own children to Aquinas — a testament to the lifelong bonds and shared values forged during those championship years. Their story is about a group of young men who learned what it means to work hard for something bigger than themselves — and a coach who showed them how. These back-to-back titles were not only the first in Aquinas football history, but also reignited the program’s national visibility. During this era, Aquinas played twice in Canton, Ohio at Tom Benson Hall of Fame Stadium, gaining exposure on a national stage. Coach Nieman’s leadership — grounded in respect, character, and tradition — laid the foundation for Aquinas football’s continued success throughout the 2000s and 2010s. 19 Save the Date On Sunday, September 28, 2025, we will proudly host Aquinas Institute’s Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony. We invite you to join us in honoring this year’s inductees at the ceremony and brunch, following family mass—all during Alumni Reunion Weekend. For more information and to secure your spot, please visit www.aquinasinstitute.com/HOF2025 or scan the QR Code.
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