Temple University Athletics
Memorial Service for Rocci Pignoli Scheduled for Sunday
1.8.07 | Softball
Jan. 8, 2007
PHILADELPHIA - A memorial service for former Temple softball coach Rocci Pignoli will be held on Sunday, January 14 at 10:00 a.m. in the Liacouras Center. Pignoli passed away Monday, January 1 at the age of 60.
Pignoli, who served eight years as the Cherry and White skipper, ranked second all-time with 175 wins before retiring on June 2, 2005. In tallying a 75-53 Atlantic 10 mark, he guided five teams to the conference's postseason tournament. The 2004 season was Pignoli's most successful as the Owls' mentor after a 30-18 overall record, an Atlantic 10 Conference championship and an appearance in the NCAA Tournament.
Before assuming the head coaching responsibilities in 1998, Pignoli served as an assistant coach from 1995-97 under head coach Carol Kashow. Under Pignoli's tutelage, the Owls enjoyed five all-conference performers including the 2004 Pitcher of the Year, Kim Watkins, and the 2002 Rookie of the Year, Aida Esquer. Additionally, four Temple players received all-region recognition, nine were named to the conference's all-tournament team and four were honored as academic all-conference honorees with Pignoli at the helm.
Prior to his arrival at Temple, Pignoli enjoyed 26 years of coaching softball at the high school and league levels.
Pignoli is survived by his wife Cheryl; daughter Tina and husband Steve Goodwin; daughter Tara and partner Marc Silbergeld; and grandchildren Taylor and Shane Goodwin. In lieu of flowers, the family will establish a scholarship fund for softball players. Further details are to be announced.
