Ever since he graduated from Pacelli High School, Norm Blaser never wanted to leave.

Now he’s a big reason why it’s still here.

Blaser, who served as volleyball coach, administrator and was development director, will be inducted into the Pacelli High School Hall of Fame Friday.

Blaser said becoming the development director was one of the best and worst days of his life.

“I had to give up administration, but I got to help keep the school open,” Blaser said. “It was bittersweet.”

With Pacelli in a $364,000 debt, Blaser helped raise two million dollars over three years for Catholic Schools in Austin.

“I once had a person tell me it wasn’t my job to keep Pacelli open, but I believed it was,” Blaser, who graduated in 1964 said. “When I went to high school, I didn’t want to graduate and I just wanted to stay there because I had so much fun.”

Blaser taught for 30 years at Pacelli and he also coached the volleyball team to a record of 313-162. But he still has one regret.

“I always wanted to get to state and we made it to the finals three times and lost,” Blaser said. “We had some great teams.”

Blaser, who retired two years ago, is still on the development committee is very pleased to be headed to the hall of fame.

“It’s really special to me. I love that school,” he said. “It’s very important and it’s something I can’t put into words.”

Blaser is one of six Pacelli grads who will be inducted into the athletic hall of fame June 22. Look for the other grads to be featured in the Herald throughout the week.