2000 -- S 2867

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LC02870
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S  E  N  A  T  E     R  E  S  O  L  U  T  I  O  N

HONORING ZELLIO TOPPAZZINI AS RHODE ISLAND REDS PLAYER OF THE CENTURY

WHEREAS, The Reds' Heritage Society, created by a group of hockey enthusiasts, is dedicated to preserving the history of the franschise. The first induction didn't require a great deal of thought. Instantly, Zellio Toppozzini came to the minds of the group; and

WHEREAS, Zellio Toppazzini, a native of Copper Cliff, Ontario, came to the Providence Reds later known as the Rhode Island Reds on January 1, New Year's Day 1952; and

WHEREAS, Upon his arrival, the Reds began a steady climb from the basement of the American Hockey League to winning the Calder Cup Championship for the 1955-56 season; and

WHEREAS, In his 12 seasons with the Rhode Island Reds, Zellio entertained the 5,000 or so fans, who crowded in the Rhode Island Auditorium every Sunday night with sheer joy and excitement; and

WHEREAS, "Topper" scoring 279 goals was marveled by fans and opponents for his elegant and seemingly effortless style of play; and

WHEREAS, When walking into the Rhode Island Auditorium, the first sight was that of Zellio Toppazzini. A large poster of Zellio faced the fans as they walked in. The Rhode Island Reds and Zellio Toppazzini went hand and hand; and

WHEREAS, In the mid 1950's, Topper was, without question, the greatest player to ever lace a pair of skates in the 51 year history of the Providence/Rhode Island Providence Reds; and

WHEREAS, The 22 year old right wing Toppazzini was traded down to the American Hockey League's Providence Reds from the New York Rangers. In just three years he assured himself a position among the state's sports legends; and

WHEREAS, After retiring from playing hockey in 1963, Topper, not being able to let go of his passion for the game, became a Providence College Hockey Coach and continued his obsession for 4 years. Later becoming a member of the Rhode Island Hockey Officials' Association; and

WHEREAS, If Zellio wasn't working a college game, he could be seen refereeing Rhode Island Interscholastic League games or skating with sons and grandsons of the many men who were his fans at the Rhode Island Auditorium; now, therefore be it

RESOLVED, That this Senate of the State of Rhode Island and Providence Plantations hereby congratulates our local hero, Zellio Toppazzini on being named Rhode Island Reds Player of the Century; and be it further

RESOLVED, That the Secretary of State be and he is hereby authorized and directed to transmit a duly certified copy of this resolution to our hero Zellio Toppazzini.