This year, Byron-Bergen High School’s athletic department recognized an alumnus who has demonstrated not only athletic achievement but also character, citizenship, success, and leadership during and after their time at the school.
Clyde Bianchi, a 1987 graduate of the school, was an exceptional multisport athlete. He played on the varsity teams for basketball, baseball, and soccer, and was named to the Genesee Region All-Star Teams for all three sports during a stellar high school career.
In 1985, a motor vehicle accident left the promising young athlete paralyzed and confined to a wheelchair.
His spirit and perseverance continued to propel Bianchi forward, however. He graduated with a Regents degree in math and art, and worked full time to pay for higher education at Genesee Community College and The College at Brockport where he earned his undergraduate degree in business, math, and economics. He attended the Rochester Institute of Technology from 1997-2000, studying information technology.
From 1994-96, Bianchi played professional basketball with the Rochester Wheels, winning the 3-on-3 Wheelchair Basketball Rochester Championship for all three years. He is also a professional power lifter, a billiards champion, and plays football.
Bianchi had a very successful career as a computer engineer, advancing to director of technology, a position he held for 10 years. Since 2013, he has been the CEO and president of the largest animal boarding facility in the Rochester area, Howlywood. Located in Bloomfield, the company is owned and operated by Bianchi and his family, including his wife and business partner Kelly.
“Clyde Bianchi is an inspiring role model for our student athletes and for everyone at our school,” said Athletic Director Rich Hannan. “He set the bar on his life high and never compromised. He has always made sports and competitive principles an important part of his life and he has made significant contributions to his community. We are absolutely honored and proud to recognize his achievements, and add his name to our Athletic Wall of Fame.”