Richard Berkowitz Student-Athlete Award

January 2, 2022

Richard Berkowitz’s connection to Staples High School – and Wrecker athletics in particular – spanned three generations. He was a long-time volunteer assistant basketball coach alongside the legendary Brian Kelley, and his four children all attended Staples and played tennis, field hockey, basketball, softball and football. Additionally, his grandchildren were members of the football, field hockey and lacrosse programs. He never missed a game. A 50-plus year resident of Westport, he had his own law practice and was an extremely active member of the community, but mentoring and supporting student-athletes was his passion and purpose. For a number of years, he served on the board of Staples Tuition Grants, supporting many students throughout their academic endeavors. Richard had the unique ability to take genuine pleasure in the accomplishments of others, and was equally passionate with his praise. He was enviably disciplined in his own academic and athletic pursuits, as he recognized the special relationship between the two. He believed that life’s most valuable lessons are learned not only in the classroom, but in the athletic arena as well.