Who Are We: Honoring the Legacy of Ben Clapp

At the heart of our community lies the spirit of a remarkable young athlete, Ben Clapp. Last year, during an unforgettable basketball game, Ben made a stunning impression by scoring 11 points in just seven seconds—starting with a layup, followed by two foul shots, a three-pointer, an inbounds pass steal, and another three. His athletic prowess captivated fans, but it was his character that truly set him apart.

Tragically, Ben passed away on August 7 at the young age of 14 while swimming in the Lamoille River near the village hydroelectric dam. While this loss has brought sorrow, it also inspires a mission to ensure that his legacy continues to thrive within our community.

The Benjamin Jeremy Clapp Athletic Fund was established to honor Ben’s memory and celebrate the values he embodied. A standout athlete at Peoples Academy, Ben was not only known for his talent in field of play, but also for his big heart and leadership qualities. He embraced life with passion and joy, a sentiment echoed by his family, who shared that he lived life to the fullest.

Our fund is dedicated to fostering the qualities that Ben exemplified: leadership, teamwork, sportsmanship, a desire for self-improvement, discipline, and commitment. We strive to provide student-athletes in Lamoille County with opportunities to grow and thrive, ensuring that Ben’s spirit lives on in every dribble, pass, and shot taken.

Through scholarships, facility improvements, equipment replacements, and various athletic initiatives, the Benjamin Jeremy Clapp Athletic Fund aims to create an environment where young athletes can develop both their skills and their character. We believe that by supporting these young individuals, we honor Ben’s legacy and inspire future generations to follow in his footsteps.

In every game, every practice, and every moment of sportsmanship, Ben’s impact is felt. Together, we celebrate his life and ensure that his legacy continues to provide a home court advantage for aspiring athletes in our community.