On the hallowed grounds of the Friar's football field, #76—James Delaney, Class of 1969—carved out a legacy that has endured for decades. Through sheer grit and tenacity, Jim and his teammates forged a football tradition that continues to define us today.
"Jim is a proud member of the 1968 Southern Division championship team. Jim was not only a decorated football player, achieving First-Team All-Catholic Honors, All Delco, All City, All East Delco, but his contribution to our football program over the years has been unparalleled," shared former Bonner Coach Fred Cappello '58. "His dedication to the school and its players is exceptional. If anyone embodies the spirit of honor, it certainly is Jim. He has always been there when needed, and without his support, we wouldn't be here playing tonight on the Class of 1969 field."
Classmates and friends shared memories of playing ball with Jim. "Since 1965, I've known Jimmy Delaney. He came here to be an end on the football team, but Coach Capello said, 'Poof, you're going to tackle.' And Jim did a pretty good job as a tackle," shared Skip Ziegenfuss '69.
"He was a heck of a ball player," shared Floyd Bucci'69. "I enjoyed playing with him. Great player. Congratulations, Jim!"
"I've known Jim since grade school. We played for St. Alice," shared Steve Phillips '69. "But I'll tell you one thing: every time I had the opportunity to have the ball, Jim was always in the end zone first. He was so much faster than me."
But Jim's drive didn't stop at the goal line; it propelled him through a remarkable career and dedicated community service. With over 40 years of business leadership in the healthcare and financial sectors, Jim has held influential roles on numerous boards and foundations. His contributions span the National Advisory Council of the U.S. Bishops, the National Advisory Board of the Church Leadership Institute, the National Catholic Community Foundation, the Catholic Philopatrian Literary Institute, and Catholic Athletes for Christ. Jim also served as the Chairman of the Board at Neumann University and played a pivotal role as Treasurer and Chair of the Finance and Audit Committee for the St. Charles Borromeo Seminary Board of Trustees.
Jim's unwavering support for Bonner & Prendie has been a hallmark of his dedication, both as a board member and as a generous donor. Bonner & Prendie celebrated his B&P impact on Friday, August 30, by retiring his football jersey number, #76, a rare and distinguished tribute, during the Friars vs. Archbishop Ryan Raiders game. Family and friends, including many 1969 Bonner classmates, gathered at the halftime ceremony to celebrate and share remarks about Jim's personal and professional impact.
Following the opening remarks, Jim stood proudly with his grandsons on the field as Pat Devenney, Director of Athletics, unveiled his framed #76 jersey. "I especially want to thank all my teammates here," Jim shared. "We've been classmates for almost 60 years since we were freshmen. And we're still getting together once a month at Barnaby's today. The relationships that we've built over the years are so strong. It makes me proud to be a part of this school. It's an honor to be recognized and have my number retired."
Jim and his wife, Jacki, continue to give back in many ways to the causes they hold dear within the local community. They cherish time with their three children and six grandchildren and continue to build a legacy on and off the field.
View Jim Delaney #76 Retirement Event Video