All State and all conference in soccer and captain or co-captain of the soccer, basketball and baseball teams, Tom Mandrola was a man for all seasons during his time a Windsor Locks High School.  Tom was an outstanding soccer player, instrumental in leading the soccer team to the Central Valley Conference  title and the quarter finals of the State tournament his senior year.  Tom was recognized for his play on the soccer field by being named to the all-area, all conference, and all state teams.

Tom humbly downplays his talent on the basketball court but he was again a team leader; playing tough defense, crashing the boards, and setting hard screens to get others open.  His selfless attitude helped the team’s star player score over 1,000 points in his career.

Baseball was Toms favorite sport and he made the varsity team as a sophomore; making his mark on a team loaded with talented players.  Tom followed up that year by being named team captain his junior and senior seasons.  He played catcher and first base and was an accomplished hitter.  In the last at bat of his high school career Tom hit a ball some 325 feet, into the next street and over some houses.  Because of an odd ground rule the shot was ruled a triple and not a home run but it nonetheless gave Tom a memorable ending to his high school baseball career.

After graduating from WLHS Tom took his talent and leadership qualities to the University of Harford’s Division 1 soccer team.  A four year starter Tom was selected as a co-captain his junior and senior years.  He relished the opportunity to play against some of the finest athletes from the United States and beyond, including defending National Champion Indiana University during his sophomore year.

At every level, in every sport, Tom Mandrola was a leader.   Always putting team ahead of self, but possessing the type of talent that still shown through.