2026 St. Rita Hall of Fame Inductee: John Vaci ‘71
We are honored to induct John Vaci ‘71 into the St. Rita Hall of Fame at our 89th Annual Alumni Banquet & Hall of Fame Dinner.
John’s journey as a Ritaman began at just nine years old, when he and his friends would run from 69th and Honore to 63rd and Claremont every Sunday to watch the Mustangs play football. More than sixty years later, he is still there, continuing his lifelong dedication to St. Rita Football.
18 years ago, John’s role at the games grew beyond that of a devoted fan when he began assisting Denny Lucas by recording statistics at all home football games. For the past 17 years, he has also committed himself to scouting local grammar schools, helping identify the next generation of Ritamen who will carry on the St. Rita tradition. Over the last five years, he has focused his efforts at St. Daniel the Prophet.
One of John’s most memorable recruiting moments came during a chance conversation with the father of Albert White ‘07, a future four-time state wrestling champion. While taking a smoke break, he spoke so passionately about St. Rita that Mr. White was inspired to encourage his son to attend the school.
A proud member of the Class of 1971, John is also the father of two St. Rita alumni: Jake (Class of 2001) and Matt (Class of 2003). His involvement deepened in 1997 when he joined the Fathers’ Club as Jake began his time at St. Rita. After serving six years as an officer, John has remained an active and dedicated member.
A skilled mason by trade, John has generously contributed his craftsmanship to numerous projects across campus, including the concession stand, field house, Memorial Wall, Fathers’ Club garage, and the St. Rita Football wall. For the past ten years, he has also served on the Facilities Committee, continuing to play a vital role in maintaining and improving the school.
While John has experienced countless proud moments at St. Rita, none compare to watching his sons compete in wrestling under legendary coach Dan Carroll. Among his most cherished memories is witnessing back-to-back state championships with Matt competing on the mat and Jake contributing as a coach.
John and his wife, Susan, have been married for 48 years. Together, they are the proud grandparents of five granddaughters—Charlotte, Olivia, Tessa, Celia, and Bella—and one grandson, Vinny, a future member of the St. Rita Class of 2039.
Today, just as he did decades ago, John continues to stand alongside his lifelong friends on game days, cheering on the Mustangs and celebrating each victory together.
Join us in celebrating John, along with our renowned Hall of Fame inductees and anniversary classes, at our 89th Annual Alumni Banquet & Hall of Fame Dinner on Friday, April 17! You must purchase your tickets before Monday, April 13. Buy your tickets here!
