Cape Elizabeth, ME - The Adelphi University Department of Athletics is saddened to learn about the passing of Jack Panzica '69, M.A. '74, a 2010 Hall of Fame inductee, who lost his battle to cancer in mid-May.

Panzica was a two-time All-American hammer thrower for the Panthers in 1968 and 1969 and a NAIA champion in 1969. He held the school record in the hammer and was a three-time CTC Champion and record holder. He was also a four-year starting fullback on the Adelphi football team and served as President of both the Men's Athletic Association and Omicron Pi Fraternity.

"Jack was larger than life as an athlete on both the track and football teams at Adelphi," said current Panther Club Vice President, Sue Tendy '70. "Winning the NAIA Hammer Throw championship in 1969 was one of the big highlights of Jack's athletic career. His success was the product of his famous unwavering workout ethic."

He was born and raised on Long Island, N.Y., graduated from Elmont High School and received his Masters degree in Health and Physical Education from Adelphi University. 

Former teammat,e Edward Mack '69, said Panzica was "a tough, aggressive and punishing ball carrier that would go full speed on every play and off the field he was a regular guy".

"Jack epitomized the word toughness on the football field." Mack added.

Panzica was inducted into the Adelphi Athletics Hall of Fame in 2010 at the 40th anniversary of the event. 

A private memorial service to celebrate Jack's life will be held at a later date. Online condolence messages can be submitted at the Chad E. Poitras Cremation and Funeral Service website, www.mainefuneral.com.