University of Vermont Athletics

Richard D. Rostowsky 1973 - Football

During the last two decades of Vermont football, depth not quality was the biggest obstacle to overcome for the Green and Gold coaching staff. There were always the "skill-position" people (quarterbacks, receivers, etc.), but some of UVM's most honored athletes were linebackers. But, the Rusty Brinks and the Joe Soldanos have not been forgotten. Nor will Rich Rostowsky, a 1988 UVM Hall of Fame inductee, who also ranks among the best at that position.

With three coaching changes Vermont didn't have much success in the early '70s but the Catamounts were known as one of the hardest hitting teams in the Yankee Conference. Rostowsky was the leader and the fiercest of all on defense. In 1972, Rich set a single-game record with 31 tackles in an upset of Northeastern. Following that game, he was named to the weekly All-ECAC squad and was named VSSA's December Athlete of the Month.

At season's end, he was named to the All-Yankee Conference team and the Associated Press and Boston Herald All-New England teams. The co-captain was also presented the team's Top Defensive Back Award. Rostowsky started every game of his varsity career.

Rostowsky's coach his last two years at Vermont, Carl Falivene fondly remembers his co-captain: "Rich was the quiet leader who loved to hit. That Northeastern game (a major upset then) was one of the best games I've seen a linebacker play...and I've coached many games. I'm very happy for Rich...he really deserves the honor!"

Following his collegiate days, Rostowsky signed and played with the Ottawa Roughriders of the Canadian Football League in 1973 and 1974. After his playing days, he attended the University of Massachusetts and received a degree in Hotel Management in 1975. He also earned his master's degree in Hospital Administration from Xavier University (1976).