Nov. 16, 2005

Benedetti, a University of San Francisco coaching legend and San Francisco original has passed away at the age of 86. A USF Hall-of-Famer in two sports (baseball and football), Benedetti was a three sport letterman - football, boxing and baseball. While, by his own admission, baseball was his least favorite sport, he is credited with saving the USF baseball program when it was about to be dropped for financial reasons. For over 16 years, he coached the team for an annual salary of $1.00.

"Dante was one of the very special people here at USF," said USF Athletic Director Bill Hogan. "His legacy was one of caring and nurturing young baseball players and molding them into outstanding people. Dante's genuine passion for this University will never be forgotten."

"There is a deep sadness in the baseball world of San Francisco," said Dons' baseball coach Nino Giarratano. "He was an influential source in helping young individuals mature into responsible adults.

"The University will also miss him a great deal. We will remember him for his contributions to baseball and our culture. We will try to continue his successful ways at USF."

Following graduation from USF in 1940, Benedetti took a tour with the Marines and Coast Guard during the Second World War. Upon his return to San Francisco, he began working with his father in the New Pisa restaurant in North Beach and devoted his off-hours to coaching or sponsoring San Francisco's junior baseball program.

Always a generous and thoughtful leader, Benedetti often paid out of his own pocket for USF baseball uniforms or playing expenses. Loved by his players and respected by his peers, Benedetti did more than teach players about solid fundamentals and team work, he taught the importance of human values and integrity.

He retired in 1980, leaving behind an established baseball program and a legacy of good men. His 1971 squad posted a West Coast Conference record of 15-6 and second place league finish - USF's all-time best performance until 2005. For his efforts, his coaching peers selected him as the WCC Coach of the Year. During his long career on the Hilltop, Benedetti amassed 373 victories, second only to friend and USF soccer legend Steve Negoesco, but victories never told the true story of the enormous contributions he made to the city and his alma mater.

Benedetti's contribution to the baseball program, especially given his limited resources, has earned the praises of his coaching colleagues. In his honor, the renovated USF baseball field was named Benedetti Diamond. Childhood friend Joe Dimaggio attended the dedication. Each year the Dons baseball team presents the Dante Benedetti Award to the Team MVP.

This October, Benedetti was recognized as one of 75 "Legends of the Hilltop", celebrating the individuals making a lasting impact on USF Athletics in conjunction with the 150th anniversary of the University of San Francisco.

Dante BenedettiBirthdate: May 16, 1919Hometown: San Francisco, CAHigh School: St. IgnatiusUSF Career Years:Coached: 1964-1980Played: 1937 - 1940
USF Career Highlights:*Rescued and Rebuilt USF Baseball Program*Achieved Best WCAC Record in 34 Years*WCAC Baseball Coach of the Year, 1971