Rebels Pride: 5 Unforgettable Athletes From South Kingstown High School

Sports run deep in South Kingstown, and South Kingstown High School has long been at the heart of it. It’s no surprise some standout talent once wore the Rebels uniform. Today we're celebrating five unforgettable athletes from South Kingstown High School who made a name for themselves well beyond the hometown field.

1. William “Bill” Beck - Former Olympian (Skiing)

Former Rebel Bill Beck was a member of the Dartmouth College ski team, winning both National and North American Championships. Beck was a member of the national “A” Team, as well as a two-time Olympian in 1952 and 1956. He was the team’s Head Coach in the 1960 Olympics and served as an official for the downhill skiing events in the 1980 Winter Games. (Sources: SkiingHistory.org, SkiHall.com)

2. Ben Brutti - Current Professional Baseball Player (Cincinnati Reds)

The most recent alum among the list, Ben Brutti emerged as one of Rhode Island’s top high school baseball players at South Kingstown High School. He was recognized as one of, if not the best athletes in the state, named the 2021–22 Rhode Island Gatorade Baseball Player of the Year. Brutti was committed to continuing his education and athletics at the University of South Florida. Instead, he was drafted right out of high school by the Cincinnati Reds and is currently working his way through the Minor Leagues. (Sources: MLB.com, IndependentRI.com)

3. Ray Johnson - Multiple-Time State Champion (Basketball)

A dominant basketball player during his time at South Kingstown High School, Johnson led his teams to multiple state championships in the 1960s, cementing himself as one of the greatest athletes from the school during his time and after. His career continued at Providence College, where he played a key role in the program’s development, continually elevating his play every season and contributing to his team as a scorer and rebounder. (Sources: ProvidenceJournal.com, Sports-Reference.com)

4. Ellie Lawler - Former Collegiate All-Region Runner

Another more recent alum, Lawler was an elite runner both in cross country and track as a Rebel, recognized as a two-time Foot Locker National, XC First-Team All-State every year and many more accolades for indoor and outdoor track. Lawler continued her career at Syracuse University, both in Cross Country and Track. Setting several personal bests in her events, Ellie was awarded USTFCCCA All-Northeast Region Cross Country in 2022. (Sources: Cuse.com, TFRRS.org)

5. Ron Locke - Former Professional Baseball Pitcher (New York Mets)

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