Ray Bocchini, in the most endearing sense, was a rink rat. How else could you describe someone that logged as many hours of service as Bocchini at the old Windsor Arena?

Bocchini was not just present but also a person of impact.

In 1970, Bocchini as General Manger assembled the Windsor Clippers Lacrosse, Canadian Sr. B Champions, a first for Windsor. Under a name change to the Windsor Warlocks, the team went on to win Canadian Championships in both 1971 and 1973.

Bocchini’s impact was also felt on the ice. Along with other Windsor/Essex Hall of Famers (Lou Bendo, Siro Martinello & others) he helped organize what is now known as Windsor Minor Hockey. During the 1966-1967 season, Windsor Minor Hockey expanded to include new leagues for Mites, Squirts, Pee Wees and Bantams. Added were 1,000 new members to the WMHA. Bocchini thrived on providing young athletes the opportunity to participate and enjoy local sports and that he did so very well.

From 1965 to 1980 Bocchini coached youth in various leagues and was instrumental in fundraising activities and in 1967 served as President of Windsor Pee Wee Hockey League. Mentored by Fr. Cullen in grade school and his father, a skilled hockey player, Bocchini also served as a scout for the Toronto Maple Leafs.

For his passion and long-term commitment, Ray Bocchini will join his contemporaries as a Builder in the Windsor/Essex Sports Hall of Fame.