SHP Fathers Club bestows its most cherished award

WEST ORANGE, NJ — The Seton Hall Prep Fathers Club honored West Orange resident Tony Esposito with the organization’s most cherished award, the Thomas A. Reynolds ’48 Award on Nov. 1. Bestowed at the annual Family Communion Breakfast in the name of the late Tom Reynolds, the first multi-term president of the club in the early 1970s, the award is presented annually to an individual who exemplifies the Christian tradition in his relationships, has consistently shown himself to be devoted to the welfare of the Prep’s students and who has consistently remained an active member of the Prep community beyond the usual degree of involvement.

Esposito is a hardworking, “behind the scenes” contributor to the Fathers Club, according to a press release. Always willing and able to help in any capacity, he has been the main force behind the Pirate Cove concession stand at home football games since his son Anthony began as a freshman. Prep President Msgr. Michael E. Kelly observed, “Just this past Saturday he was burning his hands on the grill making burgers and hot dogs at the game, and again on Sunday for the Open House BBQ for 400 families.” Former Athletic Director Joe Walsh remarked that Esposito is one of the “lifers,” fathers that have continued their involvement in the club long after their sons have graduated.

Growing up in Florham Park, Esposito attended Holy Family School and Bayley-Ellard. A member of the PSE&G team since 1981, he continues there as a service supervisor. His work with the Fathers Club began in 2003 with the acceptance of this son Tony Jr. as a member of the class of 2007. Following upon his son’s death, Esposito established the Tony Esposito Jr. Foundation in 2010, with a college scholarship fund established for a participant in the football program. Since 2013 more than $75,000 has been awarded in scholarships and charitable donations in Tony Jr.’s memory.

Esposito and his wife, Adrianna, married since 1982, continue to live in West Orange.

Joining Esposito in receiving the award this year were fellow Fathers Club “lifer” Louis Puopolo, and Prep baseball coach Michael Sheppard Jr.