Benjamin R Rizzo

Ben was born February 10, 1940, in Utica, New York, to Joseph G. Rizzo and Josephine (Mazza) Rizzo. He graduated from Proctor High School in 1958 and, after a year at Mohawk Valley Community College, enrolled at the University of Miami — a decision that would shape his life.

Determined to compete at the highest level, Ben “walked on” to the University of Miami football team. Through hard work, perseverance, and grit, he earned a full athletic scholarship and became a three-year starter at outside linebacker and offensive end for the Hurricanes. He played in two postseason bowl games and was named Florida Lineman of the Week four times by the Florida Sports Writers Association. In 1962, he earned Honorable Mention All-American honors and was selected to the North–South College All-Star Game, where he was elected captain of the South squad.

Among his many accolades, Ben’s proudest achievement was being elected sole team captain by his coaches and teammates during his senior season in 1962 — a testament to the respect he earned on and off the field. Prior to graduating in 1963, he was also inducted into the University of Miami’s prestigious Iron Arrow Society, the highest honor attainable at the university.

Following graduation, Ben was drafted by the Philadelphia Eagles (NFL) and the Houston Oilers (AFL) before signing with the Miami Dolphins in 1966. Between NFL assignments, he also played for the MV Falcons in the Atlantic Coast Football League, capturing the league scoring title in 1964 with 17 touchdowns in a 12-game season.

In 1965, Ben married the former Ann Lee Kipper. Their 42-year marriage was defined by deep love, loyalty, and unwavering devotion until her untimely passing in 2008. Together they built a home grounded in faith, family and many friends, raising two children, Ben and Nicole, who were the pride and joy of their lives.

Following his playing career, Ben returned to Utica and began one of the most impactful chapters of his life, becoming Head Football Coach at Notre Dame High School in 1968. In the years that ensued, his teams compiled an extraordinary 82% winning percentage while capturing multiple league, conference, and sectional championships, producing three undefeated seasons, and four Top 10 New York State rankings.

He was inducted into both the Notre Dame High School Hall of Fame and the Greater Utica Sports Hall of Fame. In recognition of his enduring influence, the school’s football field proudly bears the name Coach Ben Rizzo Field.

Beyond wins and titles, Coach Rizzo’s greatest legacy was the profound impact he had on the young men he mentored. Former players remember him for instilling pride, intensity, perseverance, determination, and discipline. The lessons learned on the field became lifelong principles, shaping them into strong, honorable men. This influence — more than any championship — was his most meaningful achievement.

In 1976, Ben began a second career with the United Food and Commercial Workers Union (UFCW), ultimately serving as Director of Collective Bargaining for the 40,000-member union, a position that reflected his leadership, integrity, and commitment to working families until his retirement in 1999.

Beyond football and his professional accomplishments, Ben was an avid golfer who formed lasting friendships on courses throughout the country. Whether in Utica, Belleair or beyond, he treasured the countless friendships he built over a lifetime — friendships rooted in loyalty, humor, spirited competition, and genuine connection. The camaraderie and fellowship he shared with so many brought him great joy.

Ben is survived by his beloved wife, Maureen Larose Rizzo, who, in the years following Ann Lee’s passing, brought renewed joy, laughter, and remarkable love that deeply enriched his later years. He is also survived by his son Ben and daughter-in-law Dorothy; his daughter Nicole and son-in-law Kevin Piccarreto; his cherished grandsons, Max Rizzo, Jack Piccarreto, and Cole Piccarreto; and countless dear friends in both Utica, New York, and Belleair, Florida, whose lives he touched deeply.

A Celebration of Life will be held at 10:00 a.m. on March 28th at Saint Brendan’s Catholic Church in Clearwater, Florida, with a reception to follow at Belleair Country Club.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Ben’s name to Notre Dame High School’s Salerno Catholic Education Fund by CLICKING THE LINK BELOW. Please reference “In Memory of Coach Ben Rizzo” in the Additional Notes section, or contact Tara Capponi, Chief Development Officer, at [email protected] or calling 315-723-5036.