WILTON – Wilton-Lyndeborough Cooperative High School inducted the first members of its Sports Hall of Fame on June 20 – Dennis Claire, Jim McGettigan, and, posthumously, Emilien ‘Zo’ Pellerin. His award was accepted by his daughter on behalf of the family.

The ceremony was held prior to the school’s Spring Sports Night with former student and Athletic Director Bill Draper serving as Master of Ceremonies.

Dennis Claire, Class of 1963, played varsity soccer, basketball and baseball. He was a member of the first Wilton soccer team to win a state championship in 1962. He coached basketball and softball from the late 1970s until he retired in 2019. He was a co-founder of the Wilton Junior Athletic Association.

“I’ve enjoyed all my years here,” he said. “It was the best time of my life. Getting this award is wonderful.”

Of the other two inductees, he said, “We did a lot of things

together.”

Jim McGettigan, Class of 1950, played varsity baseball and basketball. The school did not yet offer soccer. For 62 years he served as a baseball umpire and a basketball referee. After high school, he joined the army and played baseball there as well.

Emilien ‘Zo’ Pellerin, Class of 1952, played baseball and basketball. As a junior, he was the team’s high scorer. In baseball, he was a pitcher. He was part of the Wilton Junior Athletic Association and coached both soccer and basketball.

Pellerin passed away several years ago. The award was accepted by his daughter on behalf of the family. “He was always involved in sports,” she said. “This is a great honor.”

Following the ceremony, a reception was held in the library with a lot of reminiscing.

The Sports Wall of Fame, installed in the main hall, was designed and built by former students Arthur Deschenes and Dan Holt.

Nominees for next year are being accepted. Contact the school.