Hall of Fame Spotlight- Richard Sardella

Richard Sardella’s impact on Newport
stretches far beyond just the Gulls. His
commitment to the community began in 1980
when he opened Sardella’s Italian Restaurant,
which has remained a Newport staple for more
than four decades. Through his restaurant,
Sardella built lasting relationships with
residents and visitors alike, becoming one of
the city’s most recognizable and respected
business owners.
Prior to his career in public service, Richard
was the Athletic Director at Brown University
for 21 years. His dedication to Newport
extended into public service in 1995 when
he was elected to the Newport City Council.
Sardella later served as Mayor of Newport
from 2000 to 2005, a period that included
one of the city’s most significant additions to
its summer tradition—the arrival of the Newport Gulls in their inaugural 2001 season.
During his tenure as Mayor of Newport, Richard was solely responsible for bringing the
Rhode Island Gulls from Cranston Stadium to Cardines Field in Newport becoming the
Newport Gulls. His support and enthusiasm convinced the Commissioner of the New
England Collegiate Baseball League to locate a franchise in Newport.
From the very beginning, Sardella embraced the Gulls as more than just a baseball team.
He recognized the organization’s potential to bring families together, showcase Newport
to thousands of visitors each summer, and provide a source of community pride. His
support during the team’s formative years helped establish a strong partnership between
the city and the Gulls, creating a welcoming environment that allowed the franchise to
grow into one of the premier collegiate summer baseball organizations in the country.
Today, Sardella remains one of Newport’s most recognizable figures and continues to be
an active presence throughout the community. His legacy is defined not only by his years
of public service and success as a local business owner, but also by the lasting role he
played in helping the Newport Gulls become a cherished part of the city’s identity.
Richard resides in Newport, Rhode Island.