Hartwick College Athletics

Phil Rigano was a four-year starter as a lineman on the Hartwick College football team. Rigano was an All-Westchester County selection and a member of Lou Little's All-Metropolitan football team while at Mamaroneck High School.

Upon graduation, Rigano was offered professional contracts from three different football teams, including the Detroit Lions and Philadelphia Eagles.

Lions president Fred Mandel wrote to Rigano that "We feel that your play is well above average and that you can carve a great future for yourself in professional football."

Rigano, however, entered the U.S. Army for World War II.

He was a key organizer in returning football to Hartwick for the 1992 season.

The Phil Rigano trophy is now awarded annually to the Hartwick College football player who best exemplifies leadership, sportsmanship and scholarship.