A distinguished career in the spotlight
Tony Chiazza, a Wheeling native who began his officiating journey in 2000 within the West Virginia Intercollegiate Athletic Conference, has spent 26 years mastering the art of college basketball refereeing. His résumé reads like a chronicle of high‑stakes moments: 11 consecutive appearances at the NCAA Division I tournament, five Sweet 16 games, a Elite Eight, and a string of 12 straight Big East tournament assignments, culminating in his role as supervisor of officials for both the Mountain East Conference and the Pennsylvania State Athletic Conference.
Beyond the hardwood, Chiazza’s professional trajectory includes a stint as a program director at the Wheeling YMCA, where he cultivated community programs before dedicating himself fully to the rigors of collegiate officiating. His expertise has been sought by powerhouse conferences such as the Atlantic Coast, Big 12, Big East and Southeastern, underscoring a reputation that transcends regional borders.
Honoring Dr. Ricardo Zambito
The upcoming Light of the Valley luncheon, scheduled for August 26 at the White Palace in Wheeling Park, will serve as a tribute to Dr. Ricardo Zambito, the recipient of the Dr. Lee Jones Patron of Youth Award. The ceremony marks the first gathering at the newly renovated Elm Grove location of the Wheeling YMCA, a facility that has undergone a transformation featuring a state‑of‑the‑art fitness center, indoor track, expanded childcare spaces and an upgraded gymnasium.
Organizers emphasize that the event not only celebrates Zambito’s contributions to youth development but also showcases the revitalized venue, which now offers enhanced amenities for athletes, families and community members alike. The luncheon provides a platform for local leaders, educators and sports officials to converge and reflect on the shared mission of fostering future talent.
Tickets for the occasion can be secured by contacting Adam Shinsky at the Wheeling YMCA, ensuring that supporters have the opportunity to join in the celebration of both sporting excellence and community stewardship.