As one of the nation’s oldest public secondary schools, Hillhouse has built a legacy of academic and athletic excellence that stretches back centuries. The school’s origins trace to the early days of New Haven, founded during the era of the Puritans—Davenport, Eaton, Whalley, Goffe, and Dixwell. For its first 200 years, the school was simply known as the New Haven School. In 1859, the school relocated to Orange Street and was renamed to honor former U.S. Senator, Yale Treasurer, and House Representative, James E. Hillhouse. That same year, 49 girls and 35 boys enrolled, quickly earning Hillhouse the nickname “The Academics” due to its close connection with Yale University. In 1866, shortly after the Civil War, a group of boys formed a club to play a sport that blended rugby and soccer. By 1884, Hillhouse athletes were participating in a wide variety of sports, including baseball, tennis, ice hockey, and even yacht racing, with football becoming a dominant force. The game of football itself, as we know it today, was pioneered by New Haven’s Walter Camp. ​ As the 20th century unfolded, Hillhouse solidified its reputation as a state powerhouse, not just in football but also in basketball—another sport born in nearby Springfield, Massachusetts by Dr. James Naismith. Today, Hillhouse’s athletic legacy is unmatched. Our football teams have won over 550 games and captured 17 state titles, making them one of Connecticut’s top teams of all time. The boys’ and girls’ basketball teams, combined, have earned more than 25 state championships, ranking among the best in the nation. Our track teams—both boys and girls—have also claimed over 25 state championships, further solidifying our place in the national record books. Additionally, Hillhouse athletes have excelled in baseball, swimming, ice hockey, and tennis. ​ Hillhouse’s athletic tradition is so rich and deep that it will take us three years to induct our first class into the Athletic Hall of Fame. This evening, we are proud to honor those who have made a lasting impact in winter sports. Next year, we will celebrate our spring athletes, following last year’s recognition of our fall sports stars.