University of Connecticut Athletics
UConn Athletics Receives $1.5 Million Gift from Tony Rizza '87 (BUS) to Support Athletic Department Leadership
4/16/2026 11:00:00 AM | General
STORRS, Conn. — The University of Connecticut Department of Athletics announced today a $1.5 million commitment from Tony Rizza '87 (BUS), a longtime supporter of UConn Athletics and former men's soccer standout. The gift provides vital support and flexible resources to the department's pursuit of sustained excellence across all of UConn's athletic programs.
Rizza's commitment comes on the heels of the landmark $15 million gift from Robert and Stefanie Skinner — one of the most significant private investments in the history of UConn Athletics — and reflects a shared belief in the direction and momentum of the program. Inspired in part by the Skinner family's generosity, Rizza's investment is structured to deliver immediate impact, giving department leadership the strategic flexibility to address top priorities as they emerge — a resource that is increasingly critical in today's rapidly evolving collegiate athletics landscape.
"There is incredible momentum across UConn Athletics right now and seeing both our men's and women's basketball teams reach the Final Four in this year's NCAA tournament underscores what's possible here," said Rizza. "The continued growth across programs is a reflection of the strong leadership under David Benedict and a clear vision of what's required to continue competing at the highest level - I'm proud to join the Skinners to contribute in a way that helps sustain that level of excellence."
"Tony Rizza exemplifies what it means to be a Husky for life," said David Benedict, Director of Athletics. "His generosity has already helped transform the physical landscape of UConn Athletics in profound ways, and this latest commitment reflects his trust in our leadership and our vision for the future. Gifts like Tony's provide meaningful and immediate support for our highest priorities, giving us the ability to compete and lead at the highest level. We are incredibly grateful."
Rizza's generosity to UConn is longstanding and transformational. A former standout on the UConn men's soccer program, he has contributed a total of $10 million to help bring to life both the new Morrone Stadium and the state-of-the-art sports performance center that opened in January 2021. Today, Joseph J. Morrone Stadium at Rizza Performance Center serves as home to UConn's men's and women's soccer, baseball, softball, and women's lacrosse programs — a lasting testament to his commitment to UConn athletics.
This latest gift further underscores Rizza's belief in what UConn continues to build — both academically and athletically — and his dedication to ensuring the department has the resources to sustain and grow that success for years to come.
