1957 Boys Basketball Team

The 1956-57 boys basketball team, state champions and one point from being undefeated, compiled an 18-1 record under the direction of Coach Toni Koult. The starting five included all-state selections Doug Kistler and Dan Berry, as well as Adrian De Pasquale, Lee Vulgaris and Jim Thompson. George Maurer, Jay Gorry and Tony Hicks provided enormous bench strength.

Playing to its potential in every game, the team was always exciting to watch. During the regular season, the “Koultmen” won a one-point victory against St. Benedict’s and soundly beat Lawrenceville. The team went on to defeat The Hill School in Pottstown in overtime. Against Blair Academy, Peddie fought back from an early 15-point deficit to sink a goal in the last second, sending the game into overtime. Peddie then prevailed with a three-point victory. The team simply never gave up. A single point in a loss to Pennington was the only blemish on an otherwise perfect season.

According to team captain de Pasquale, “The team’s strength was its ability to play as a unit with no dissension among its member.” The 1957 basketball team represents the highest Peddie traditions of athletic excellence, team-oriented talent, outstanding sportsmanship and never-say-die-perseverance.