Aug. 1, 2007
It is with mixed emotions that the Georgetown University Athletic Department annouces the retirement of William "TC" Chisley, who has been part of the Department of Support Services for 35 years. While the Hoyas are excited for TC, everyone is saddened by his departure. Wednesday, August 1, 2007 is TC's last day "on the job".
Following an honorable discharge from the United States Army where he was stationed in Germany, Chisley joined the Department of Athletics staff at Georgetown University in May, 1971. Dave Burch, a longtime friend and neighbor who recently retired from the university after 44 years of faithful service found the job in McDonough Gymnasium for Chisley. Affectionately known as "TC", he was hired on the spot and started working immediately after completing the application process. With the long term goal of working for the federal government, TC initially thought the job at Georgetown would be short term.
"Everyone was so nice, and the environment was good, so I stayed," he proudly remarked.
As a member of the support services staff, Chisley's responsibilities have included field maintenance, repairing equipment, handling team uniforms and assisting in game day preparation. A constant around the equipment room area known as "the cage," he commuted from his home in LaPlata, Maryland and provided support for equipment room operations. Throughout his career, TC, also known as "the mayor", has always maintained an excellent rapport with students and staff.
When TC first arrived on the Hilltop, Yates Field House, ICC, Leavey Center, Village A & C and Henle had not yet been built.
Starting in 1973, the head men's basketball coach at the time, John Thompson Jr., had two young children, John Thompson III and Ronny, who were always running McDonough.
"I used to lift them up so they could shoot the basketballs in the gym," Chisley recalls with a smile.
Chisley was asked about some of the changes he's seen on campus since his arrival.
"We have a lot more teams nowadays and they are all a lot more competitive than ever," Chisley said. "I've seen a lot more diversity among the athletics staff but also in the student body. Also, all of the recreation activities and intramurals have moved completely out of McDonough."
Chisley also mentioned some of his favorite memories.
"I remember when John Thompson Jr. was hired. He was a great influence," Chisley said. "I remember watching some terrific athletes like Patrick Ewing, Allen Iverson, Ray Humphrey and Rebekkah Brunson. I'll never forget when the men's basketball team won the title in '84. I remember watching former Athletic Director Frank Rienzo walk through the building and I remember not that long ago when he retired. I've also had great bosses and friends, such as Joe Lang, Sarge Wilson, Maxie Richardson, Denis Kanach, Adam Brick and Frank Gagliano."
Chisley has a desk-size calendar on the countertop of the equipment room where he has been counting the days. Numerous athletic staff members, student-athletes and University staff have written little notes on the calendar wishing Chisley good luck.
"I can't believe how many people have taken a minute to write a note," he said with a twinkle in his eye.
