Benedictine College and the Raven Athletic Department have learned of the passing of Professor Emeritus and former men's soccer club coach Dr. Richard Wittmann. Dr. Wittmann passed away in Tolleson, Ariz., on Feb. 7.

Dr. Wittmann, who retired from teaching at Benedictine in 1996, was a Professor Emeritus of Modern and Classical Languages. He is also considered by many to be one of the founding fathers of Benedictine Soccer. 

He served as the first coach of the men's soccer club from 1959-1962 building the club team to where it was ready to become an intercollegiate program in 1963. Dr. Wittmann is credited with helping build the recruiting pipeline from his native St. Louis to Benedictine.

In 1963, the fledgling varsity team was coached by Bill Samuels, who led the group to an undefeated season and an invitation to the NAIA National Championship Tournament. 

Dr. Wittmann was recognized for his efforts at the 2023 Raven Hall of Fame induction ceremony where the Athletic Department celebrated the 60th anniversary of that first varsity Men's Soccer team. 

The Most Valuable Player of the Men's Soccer program is honored with the Richard Wittmann Award each season.

Services will be on February 17, 2025, in Phoenix and he will be laid to rest at the Arizona Veterans Memorial.

www.ravenathletics.com | #UnleashGreatness | www.benedictine.edu