April 19, 2007
PHILADELPHIA -
In conjunction with Temple's annual Cherry and White Day on Saturday, April 21, the Temple softball team will honor late head coach Rocci Pignoli in a dedication ceremony following its game against Massachusetts at noon. Pignoli passed away Monday, January 1 at the age of 60.
Pignoli, having served eight years as the Cherry and White skipper, ranked second all-time with 175 wins. 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 Cherry and White mentor as he guided Temple to a 30-18 overall record, an Atlantic 10 conference championship and an appearance in the NCAA tournament.
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. Before assuming the head coaching responsibilities in 1998, Pignoli served as an assistant coach from 1995-97 under head coach Carol Kashow.
Immediately following the game, a ceremony will take place as the team will plant a tree in honor of Pignoli, symbolizing his continued spirit and growth.
Additionally, a memorial fund called the "Hearts & Guts Award Fund" has been established in his memory. Proceeds will help to sponsor area youth.
