Tomasini inks major football stadium gift

Tomasini inks major football stadium gift

Photo Gallery of the Tomasini football stadium donation

The past met the present Thursday evening as Concordia University Wisconsin football head coaches from four decades gathered to celebrate a major football stadium gift by Hall of Famer John Tomasini, the president of D.F. Tomasini Contractors.

"This gift is especially significant because it comes from a CUW alum whose sainted father was also a generous donor," explained President Rev. Patrick T. Ferry. "It will enhance the experience of student-athletes for years to come."

Tomasini signed his pledge at a special ceremony in front of an appreciative crowd that included members of his family, teammates from his era, current and former CUW staffers and administrators.

"It's a small way to give back to a university that provided me with an education. The total college experience instilled in me the drive to never give up," said Tomasini. "Tonight brings goose bumps to me, having my coaches and teammates here to share this moment."

The Richfield, Wis., native played football for Concordia College from 1983–87, rushing for over 3,000 yards. In both 1984 and 1985 he was named the Falcon Offensive Player of the Year and was an all-conference running back. In 1986, he was a two-time NAIA Player of the Week and earned Player of the Year honors.

"I am very thankful for the generous gift from the Tomasini family," Director of Athletics Dr. Rob Barnhill said. "Through this gift, John is making it possible for current and future Falcons to showcase their talents in a facility that embodies the competitive spirit and commitment to excellence synonymous with CUW. We strive to make a difference and impact the lives of our student-athletes and I believe that this gift is evidence of that impact. I am extremely excited about the facility upgrades upcoming for CUW athletics."

Former head coaches Dr. Andy Luptak (80-83), Courtney Meyer (84-89), Jeff Gabrielsen ('90-'07) and current CUW mentor Greg Etter were all in attendance to witness the signing.

"You embody what it means to be a member of the Falcon football family," Etter told Tomasini. "This is the right gift from the right person."