Angelina Raneo Chilaka, Massachusetts – 2016

Angelina graduated from Northeastern University (BS, 1972) and Columbia University (MA).  She started teaching and coaching in New York and then at Harwich High School in 1987.

Angelina became an IAABO basketball official in 1987 and coached the Harwich junior varsity girls’ basketball team.  She also coached the junior varsity softball team from 1989-2002 and the varsity softball team from 2003-2006.

Angelina credits her mentors – Mary Dowling, Cheryl Poore, and Fred Thatcher – for her 45 years of successful coaching and support of the student-athletes of Harwich.  Her most memorable time came during the 1990’s when her girls’ basketball teams won 2 State Championships at the Boston Garden.

During the last seven years, Angelina has redirected her energy to help in developing peer leaders and supporting the Best Buddies Program.  This fall, athletes from the Cape will participate in the Fall Special Olympics hosted by Monomoy Regional High School (formerly Harwich H.S.).  “It is thrilling to work with our student coaches and our special athletes.”

“Throughout my teaching career, I have always promoted self-respect and respect for others.  I have encouraged many of my students and student athletes to use their talents to help the community.  Every year we organize teams to participate in the relay for life and walk for hunger marathons.  In addition, we participate in blood drives and volunteer our time at the recreation center helping with younger student athletes.”