Orono High School Inducts 5 New Legends into Sports Hall of Fame

URGENT UPDATE: The Orono High School Athletic Hall of Fame will welcome five new members this Saturday, November 4, 2023, during a special induction ceremony at 3:30 p.m. This event will coincide with the home basketball games for the girls and boys Red Riot teams, making it a fitting tribute to the inductees, especially the two former basketball coaches honored.

Former Orono boys basketball coaches Bob Cimbollek and John Giffin will be enshrined alongside standout athlete Jeff Mateja, and community stalwarts Diann and Billy Libby. This celebration highlights their significant contributions to Orono athletics and its vibrant community spirit.

Bob Cimbollek, who coached from 1963 to 1969, led the boys basketball team to a stellar record of 106-32 and clinched two state championships in 1967 and 1969. His legacy continued as he coached at Bangor High School, where he won five state titles in total.

Replacing Cimbollek, John Giffin took the reins of the boys basketball team and led them to an impressive 136 wins over nine seasons, including a perfect 22-0 state championship season in 1973. Giffin’s excellence earned him statewide recognition as coach of the year on two occasions.

Athlete Jeff Mateja, a class of 1997 graduate, excelled in soccer and both indoor and outdoor track. He set multiple school records in hurdling and played a pivotal role in his teams’ success, ultimately continuing his athletic career at Bentley University.

The Libbys will be recognized as special contributors for their unwavering commitment to youth sports in Orono. Diann Libby has played numerous roles, including volunteering at the Orono Recreation Department and serving in various capacities with the booster club and sports events. Her husband, Billy Libby, has been a fixture in Orono athletics, working as the football announcer for nearly 20 years after serving on the football chain crew for seven.

This induction ceremony promises to be a heartfelt celebration of achievements and dedication, reflecting the community’s passion for sports and youth development. The Orono High School Athletic Department encourages all community members to attend and honor these remarkable individuals.

WHAT TO EXPECT NEXT: The ceremony will take place at the high school gymnasium, and attendees can look forward to a memorable event as they celebrate the rich history of Orono athletics. Be sure to arrive early to catch the excitement surrounding the basketball games that follow.

With this event, Orono continues to inspire future generations, showcasing the impact of dedicated individuals in shaping the lives of young athletes. Don’t miss this opportunity to celebrate local legends!