From the Archives: Celebrating a Gridiron Great
Hartwick Hall of Famer Phil Rigano '42 donated his #12 football uniform to the archives, including this field-worn jersey (c.1941).
Rigano was a standout football player at Hartwick. A four-year starter as a lineman, upon graduation, Rigano was offered professional contracts from three different football teams, including the Detroit Lions and Philadelphia Eagles. He chose instead to enter the U.S. Army and served during World War II.
After the war, he joined Allstate Insurance Company and steadily rose through the ranks of the organization. He is a past president of the Parent’s Advisory Council for the Development of the Disabled in New Rochelle and a recipient of its Walters Memorial Award.
He remained a loyal supporter of the College, including serving on the Alumni Association Council, until his death in 2009. He remained a loyal supporter of the College, including serving on the Alumni Association Council, until his death in 2009. His legacy continues with an annual trophy donated by Rigano, which is presented to the Hartwick football player who best exemplifies leadership, sportsmanship, and scholarship.
Photos are part of the collection in Hartwick College Paul F. Cooper, Jr. Archives.
