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Al Fracassa Legacy Foundation Announces $10,000 Sponsorship of “Rice in the D” 2026 supporting scholarships and the Brother Rice Endowment Fund (BREF).

A football team practicing on the field during a game or training session.

Troy, MI – May 11, 2026 — The Al Fracassa Legacy Foundation (AFLF) is proud to announce a $10,000 Sponsorship in support of student financial assistance at Brother Rice High School  through “Rice in the D,” the signature fundraising event hosted by the Brother Rice Endowment Fund (The Brother Rice Foundation) benefiting the mission of Brother Rice High School.

This gift reflects the shared mission of both foundations to invest in the formation of young men of character and to expand access to transformational educational opportunities.

The Al Fracassa Legacy Foundation was established to carry forward the enduring values of legendary coach and educator Al Fracassa – faith, discipline, character, leadership, and service. Through scholarships, mentorship, and leadership development, the Al Fracassa Legacy Foundation supports high school students and coaches.  The Brother Rice Endowment Fund advances the mission of Brother Rice by securing financial resources that ensure access, affordability, and excellence in Catholic education.

“This gift recognizes and celebrates two powerful legacies,” said Dr. Patrick Callaghan, President of the Al Fracassa Legacy Foundation.  Coach Fracassa dedicated his life to forming young men of character at Brother Rice. Partnering with the Brother Rice High School Foundation to support scholarships is a natural extension of both commitments.”

Coach Fracassa, who served as both a teacher and head football coach at Brother Rice High School for decades, built one of the most respected high school football programs in the country while remaining deeply committed to the spiritual and personal development of his students. His philosophy – prioritizing God, Family, and Team – continues to guide the mission of the Al Fracassa Legacy Foundation and resonates deeply within the Brother Rice community.

The $10,000 sponsorship contribution will directly support “Rice in the D” helping to ensure that future generations have access to the same formative experience at Brother Rice that has shaped thousands of young men. 

Michael Tyranski, President of the Brother Rice Endowment Fund Board and a former player for Coach Fracassa, expressed his appreciation for the donation: “As someone who had the privilege of playing for Coach Fracassa, I experienced firsthand the life lessons he instilled – faith, discipline, accountability, and a commitment to something greater than yourself. We are deeply grateful for this contribution.  This sponsorship reflects the shared values that define Brother Rice and directly supports our mission to provide transformational opportunities for our young men.”

About the Al Fracassa Legacy Foundation

The Al Fracassa Legacy Foundation is dedicated to advancing the values of faith, discipline, character, leadership, and service by supporting high school students and coaches who shape their lives.  Through scholarships, recognition programs, and leadership initiatives, the Al Fracassa Legacy Foundation seeks to form the next generation of leaders grounded in integrity and commitment to serving others.

Media Contacts:

Patrick G. Callaghan, Ph.D.
President, Al Fracassa Legacy Foundation
(248) 875-6009

Patrick@AlFracassaLegacy.com

www.AlFracassaLegacy.com

Coach’s Enduring Legacy

Some say Coach Fracassa belonged to Brother Rice. But perhaps the truth is this: Brother Rice belonged to him. Every player who raised a helmet in his locker room, every student who sought his compassion, every colleague who walked the halls beside him, every alumnus who still lives by his mottos decades later — every life he touched is part of the story of Al Fracassa.

We mourn his passing, but more than that, we celebrate a life lived with purpose, humility, and heart. He asked his players to “Do it better than it’s ever been done before.” And he did. In every season of his remarkable life – he truly did.

Chest on man wearing Brother Rice Football Staff polo shirt, smiling for professional portrait.