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Almost everyone in the gym knew Tom’s phone number by heart as we have dialed it repeatedly. That familiar number, the friendly, distinctive voice on the other end of the line, that gentle, contemplative visage on the top row of the stands are all gone now.

We knew that as we filed onto the hallowed gymnasium floor at Archbishop Molloy High School on September 10. Yet, the spirit of Tom Konchalski is very present. Palpably so. Solemn at first, the mood turned joyful as we shared stories and celebrated the extraordinary life and legacy of this remarkably modest man.

In his invocation, Bishop John O Barres remembered the victims and families of 9/11 on its 20th anniversary. He then revealed Tom’s “humble secret:” devotion to daily Mass and the Blessed Sacrament. Tom lived the “rhythm of the Mass” and this was the Foundation of the integrity and excellence he brought to the basketball world.

Coach Ray Nash quipped that he was asked to emcee the event because “everyone else was in Springfield!” Tom loved (and used) this type of self-deprecating humor.

Coach Bob Hurley recalled that Tom took public transportation to Jersey City – “I cannot begin to tell you how many times!” He always showed up – weddings, christenings, games, family gatherings – he was always there.

“If you can walk with kings,” Coach Pete Gillen recited Kipling, and keep the common touch. Tom walked with the kings of the basketball world and in his humility treated everyone he met with kindness and respect.

Coach Steve Konchalski pointed to the gymnasium doors where 63 years ago Tom and he walked through together. “I was 13 and he was 11. Archbishop Molloy High School changed our lives.” Steve also reflected on the Christian values, instilled by their parents. This was an integral part of family life in the Konchalski household.

1986 – Mets vs. Red Sox World Series. Game 6. Ed Hall and Tom were there to witness the pandemonium at Shea when the Mets staged an epic comeback in the 10th inning. “Tom was simply the smartest person and best person I have ever known.”

“Scouting is what connected us.” Tom was all about giving a young man a chance. Omar Minaya recalled Tom as loving, caring, and consistent. He was closer to being a saint as anyone I know.

I believe his right hand was anointed by God. Jason Curry concluded his stirring remarks: “All of us were blessed when we shook hands with Tom Konchalski.”

“Tom made people better every day of his life. He gave thousands of youngsters the opportunity to make their lives better.” We got a rousing send off and call to action by Coach Mike Krzyzewski via video. “It’s an honor to be part of Tom’s Team.” Coach K video

Thanks to all the speakers who made the evening a very special occasion.

And a HUGE thank you to Mike McCleary and his team at Molloy for all the setup, food service, bar and many game-day details. We could not have done this without you.

Through your generosity, we pledged $10,000 to Molloy as a scholarship for deserving students. Our ultimate goal is to fund a perpetual Molloy scholarship in Tom’s name. As we meet with continued success, with the charity of the people in Tom’s orbit, we hope to fund additional scholarships and assistance to worthy youth at schools throughout the city.

L-R Richard Karsten, President Molloy; Joe Dunleavy, VP TK Foundation; Steve Konchalski, President TK Foundation

CHSAA Senior Showcase 2021

Pictured: Nathaniel Morris of Xaverian High School receives a sportsmanship trophy from Foundation VP Joe Dunleavy.

For many years Tom helped with the Senior Showcase which features the best players from NYC Catholic high schools. With his knowledge of all the city players, Tom put together the teams to assure parity.

The Showcase has now been named for Tom Konchalski and the Foundation awarded sportsmanship trophies for each of the 8 games

Testimonials

Tom is the most honorable, hardest working and kindest person I’ve ever met in my life.

Coach John Calipari, Kentucky, Naismith Basketball Hall of Fame