Pictured: President Matt Keough, Thomas Niland III '65, Dr. Vincent Sportelli '71 and John O'Connor '85, Alumni Association President.
Family, friends, and alumni gathered in the Dan Byrne ’70 Performing Arts Center on Saturday, April 18 as Thomas Niland III ’65 and Dr. Vincent Sportelli ’71 were honored with the Alumni Association’s Purple and Gold Award.
The Alumni Association selects Purple and Gold recipients from among nominated individuals who have demonstrated outstanding support in the best interests of the students, faculty, and alumni of CBA; have dedicated years of service to the school; and have been committed to the ideals and principles of CBA.
Thomas Niland III ’65
Thomas Niland III, CBA Class of 1965—affectionately known as “Coach Niland”—has devoted decades to selfless service at Christian Brothers Academy, embodying the mission and spirit of the school. More than a coach, he has been a steady mentor and moral guide, shaping generations of students with his belief that character matters more than reputation and that integrity is defined by actions taken when no one is watching. Through his leadership, he has formed not only stronger athletes, but young men and women grounded in humility, accountability, and service to others.
His commitment to CBA began with simple acts of generosity and grew into a lifelong legacy of impact. From volunteering his time to coach and support school needs, to officially joining the basketball coaching staff in 1993, Tom dedicated over 20 years to coaching at multiple levels, including a long tenure with the girls’ junior varsity basketball team. He also supported varsity programs and alumni efforts in countless unseen ways, always focused on teaching life lessons through sport. Alongside his family’s deep ties to CBA, Coach Niland’s enduring presence has left an indelible mark on the school community and the lives of its students.
Tom’s legacy is measured not in accolades, but in the countless lives he has touched through his kindness, humility, and enduring dedication, making him a most deserving recipient of the Purple and Gold Award.
Vincent Sportelli ’71
Vincent V. Sportelli, Class of 1971, has demonstrated an extraordinary and enduring commitment to Christian Brothers Academy and its Alumni Association through decades of dedicated service and leadership.
As a longtime supporter of CBA, Vince has played a pivotal role in advancing alumni engagement and fundraising efforts. Most notably, he served for 13 years as Co-Chair of the Alumni Association Golf Tournament Committee, where his tireless outreach and stewardship significantly increased sponsorship and revenue for one of the school’s most important annual events. His leadership extended to major initiatives such as the Capital Campaign Parent Committee and as Co-Chair of the Lasallian Dinner & Auction, helping to strengthen the school’s mission and long-term sustainability. His 13 years as Treasurer of the Alumni Association further reflect the deep trust placed in him and his steadfast commitment to its success.
Beyond leadership roles, Vince has remained deeply connected to the CBA community through hands-on involvement. He has supported generations of student-athletes by providing chiropractic care for over 35 years, reinforcing the school’s commitment to student wellness. Additionally, he has served as a junior varsity football coach, mentoring young men and instilling values of discipline and integrity. His ongoing engagement as a class reunion chair, phonathon volunteer, and class representative highlights his dedication to fostering lifelong connections among alumni. Through every role, Vince has consistently embodied the Lasallian values of faith, service, and community, leaving a lasting impact on both the institution and those it serves.
