Photo by Douglas McGlynn

From left to right: Bishop David Zubik, Pittsburgh Steelers chairman Dan Rooney, Steelers coach Mike Tomlin, and Rege Claus at the 17th annual “Gala Pittsburgh Sports Night” fundraiser at Heinz Field Thursday, Nov. 6. 

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By Douglas McGlynn

The 17th annual “Gala Pittsburgh Sports Night” fundraiser was held at Heinz Field on Thursday, Nov. 6.

The fundraiser is an annual event that raises money for the Northside Catholic School and for families that want to provide a Catholic education, but are unable to meet the financial obligations involved.

“We are blessed to have this organization that cares so much about the families in the community,” principal Rosanne Kwiatkowski said.

This year Pittsburgh Steelers coach Mike Tomlin and Rege Claus, who is the executive director of the Mechanical Contractors Association of Western Pa., were inducted into the Northside Catholic Hall of Fame.

Coach Tomlin offered several jokes about football and the Steelers, but his primary focus of the night was discussing education.

“I’d really like to take time to recognize the pastors, teachers, and parents for you commitment to Northside Catholic,” Coach Tomlin said.

Rege Claus went even further and defined what a Catholic education meant for him.

“The most important things I learned through my Catholic education were discipline and respect,” Claus said.

The North Side Friends and Neighbors Steering Committee inducted the pair. Committee co-chairs Dan Rooney of the Steelers and Kevin McClatchy, formerly of the Pirates, were on hand to present the awards. Bishop David Zubik was also present to honor the inductees.

The event also boasted live and silent auctions. Items included in the live auction were luxury ticket packages for future Steelers and Pirates games.

The Steelers, Pirates, and Penguins also donated memorabilia for the silent auction. Northside Catholic School donated several gift baskets, which were made by students in each grade.

Past and present members of the Steelers and Pirates were present to sign autographs and take pictures. The athletic departments of the University of Pittsburgh, Duquesne University, and St. Vincent College were also in attendance.

Northside Catholic School was formed in 2011 by the merger of the St. Cyril of Alexandria and Cardinal Wright Regional schools. 150 students are enrolled in the school from preschool to eighth grade.