The Randolph Central School District recently hosted its annual Wall of Fame Induction Dinner at the Cardinal Hills Golf Course. The Oct. 4 event brought together school leaders and community members to honor two historic teams: Randolph’s 2005 varsity volleyball and football players. Both teams had the distinction of becoming NYSPHSAA Class D champions.
The evening began with a welcome from Superintendent Kaine Kelly, who explained why the selection committee decided to induct two teams this year rather than individuals. He also highlighted the lasting impact of both championships.
“The year 2005 seems to be a watershed moment in the Randolph community’s history,” Kelly said. “It’s set the level of expectation for excellence that has carried through and continues through to this day. It all started with you guys. I congratulate you for that, and I thank you for that.”
The 2005 Lady Cardinals, led by Coach Robin Maycock and Assistant Coach Karin Erdmann, were recognized first. The team members honored were Erica Adams, Maggie Bontemps, Chrissy Bradshaw, Erin Carlson, Jacquie Dexter, Nicole Emborski, Kaitlin Erdmann, Sara Flaherty, Carissa Hartson, Meghann Hettenbaugh, Lacy Blocker, Lindsey Ralston, Annie Shields, Sierra Finch and Hilary Wadsworth.
Maycock came forward to introduce the speaker for the team, Erica (Adams) Dybka. Dybka, the 2005 captain and a sixth grade teacher at Randolph, made sure to set the record straight regarding their accomplishment.
“I want to just make sure everybody in the room is clear that the volleyball team holds the first state championship,” Dybka said to a round of applause.
After thanking everyone who supported them during their high school days, Dybka reflected on Randolph becoming “Title Town” and what that meant to them then and now.
“The support and dedication both teams gave each other that year was remarkable,” Dybka said. “The support from our school, our community was like nothing I've ever seen before. Not just home games. It seemed like the whole town just shut down and the visitors’ bleachers would always be filled. Whether you were on the court or the field, the sidelines, the stands or lining the sidewalks in the freezing temperatures to welcome us back home, we all stood together. We all fought together.”
In her closing remarks, Dybka encouraged her former teammates to continue being an example to younger generations.
“Tonight, I ask you to continue leading in your lives, in our community,” Dybka said. “Carry the standard of excellence in whatever you do next. Whatever field, whatever job, whatever change, mentor the next generation. Share what you have learned. Share your struggles and your dreams so the next generation has a stronger foundation.”
The football team, led by Head Coach Pat Slater and Assistant Coaches Brent Brown and Todd Conley, were recognized next. The players honored were Zach Abraham, Brandon Barber, Matt Beacom, Garrett Bowen, Tim Brown, Casey Burch, Lucas Burch, Kevin Callahan, Adam Chandler, Jeff Durow, Chris Erdmann, David Everts, Daniel Fluent, Dustin Hale, Nick Jackson, David Jensen, Cody Johnson, Tim McElwain, Brooks Morrison, Blake Morrison, Pat Oyer, Shawn Perry, David Pihlblad, Dustin Poitras, Matt Ring, Trae Rogers, Jose Rosario, Shawn Ryan, Mike Seiberg and Steven Sheldon.
Slater took the podium to congratulate his players and everyone involved with the team. He recalled not understanding how much the team’s performance meant to people until an interaction between two strangers during a Florida vacation.
“We're talking away, and about halfway through lunch, one goes, ‘You're the coach, you’re the football coach,” Slater said. “I go, ‘Yeah.’ Then she goes, ‘You did pretty good this year. Well, how are we going to be next year?’ Really, down here? Then, I realized that this is special.”
Slater closed the ceremony portion of the dinner by saying the recognition is well-deserved.
“You did a magnificent job,” Slater said. “You’ve been rewarded like you should be and identified. You have set the table, and it’s been a great ride.”
Randolph Central School's Wall of Fame honors graduates, current and past staff members, current and past board of education members, and community members. Those chosen have distinguished themselves in a specific field of endeavor, civic affairs, humanitarian affairs, and activities meriting special recognition or who have had a positive impact on the district or the community.
A nomination form for 2026 inductees is available on the district’s website at randolphcsd.org/walloffame.