Bayleigh Perdue named winner of Piccolo Award

Italian-American Herald

REHOBOTH BEACH – Bayleigh Perdue, a Sussex Central High School student and field-hockey player, was named the winner of the 2021 Brian Piccolo Award during a dinner on Nov. 14 at St. Edmond Parish Hall.

Bayleigh received a Columbia backpack filled with personal gift cards, passes to local attractions and other prizes including a copy of “Brian’s Song,” the 1971 movie about Brian Piccolo, a Chicago Bears running back who died at age 26 from an aggressive form of cancer.

She was nominated for the honor by her coach and teachers. On her behalf, the Sussex Central Field Hockey Boosters Association was awarded $1,000.

UNICO member and Master of Ceremonies Richard A. DiLiberto Jr. introduced members of the Delaware Commission on Italian Heritage and Culture who were present, spoke of the impact of the commission on the Italian-American community in Delaware, its history, and delivered greetings from Gov. John Carney.

Nick DelCampo, longtime coach and referee in Delaware, gave a presentation on the life of Brian Piccolo and why this award is given in his honor.

Guest speaker Deacon David McDowell, former football coach, extended his congratulations to Bayleigh, citing her exceptional willingness and unselfishness to represent her team in the competition.