Fredonia University

The following information was taken from the Hall of Fame program published at the time of induction. Some editing was required:

Thomas L. Barresi was a member of the Inaugural Class inducted into the Fredonia State Athletics Hall of Fame. The ceremony was held Sat., Sept. 27, 1986, at the Topiary Tree in the Campus Center. A 1951 graduate with a degree in Elementary Education, Mr. Barresi was cited for earning four varsity letters in basketball, one in golf, and one in baseball. He started at point guard from 1947 to 1951 and established a free-throw record which stood for many years. He was instrumental in the formation of the baseball team at Fredonia State in 1951 and competed on that squad during the school's first intercollegiate baseball season. He was well respected for his leadership and organizational abilities. Mr. Barresi was awarded the Purple Heart and Bronze Star for his service to his country from 1943-1946. He also earned a master's degree from Fredonia State in 1955 and a post-graduate degree from University of Buffalo in 1963. He served as trustee in the Village of Fredonia and was past president of the Fredonia Rotary Club at the time of his induction.