Francis Kujawski, Class of 1922, has the distinction of being named as the earliest graduate of Bartlett High School to be inducted into the Hall of Fame. Francis was an outstanding four letter athlete his senior year, attaining letters in football, basketball, baseball and track. Rules of that early time period allowed players to participate in more than one sport during a season, thus, Francis had an opportunity to play both baseball and track in the spring of his senior year.

In football, Francis played quarterback on offense and safety on defense. Webster Times articles highlight some of his exceptional performances during his senior year. In a 21-0 upset of St John’s, “he displayed his triple threat skills by his accurate passing, scoring on a run, and kicking all three PATs successfully”. The article also pointed out that Francis was in on almost every tackle. In a 10-7 win over powerful Worcester Classical, Francis “won the game on a record-setting 45 yard drop kick”! On Thanksgiving morning, he scored four touchdowns against Southbridge, the only Bartlett player to ever accomplish this feat in the history of Bartlett High School!

In the winter, despite being small in stature, Francis led the basketball team in scoring, relying on his patented set shot. In the first game of the season, a 40-23 victory over a Rhode Island high school, Francis scored 20 points, exactly half of Bartlett’s point total. In addition, he was known for his excellent hustle and excellent defensive skills.

In the spring, Francis represented Bartlett in both baseball and track. He was the mainstay of the baseball team. His primary position was that of a pitcher and on offense, he had the reputation of being a solid hitter and great base runner. In track and field, he competed in the 100 yard dash and high jump and was a key member of the relay team. In most of his BHS track meets, Francis placed either first or second in his events.

Francis attended the Univ. of Illinois, married Stasia Stelmach, had two children, a daughter Dolores, Mrs. Albert David, and a son Francis Jr., and four grandchildren. Francis served on the Webster School Committee and was a member of the Webster Fire department.