COACH PAT TIRICO
Scholarship Fund  

Honoring Excellence Beyond the Field

Pasquale “Pat” C. Tirico (1956–2026) was the longtime face of Lodi High School athletics, serving as head football coach for 33 seasons and becoming the program’s all-time winningest coach. After a difficult first season in 1983, he built the Lodi Rams into a North Jersey powerhouse, finishing with 186 wins and three NJSIAA sectional titles (1992, 1998, 2005) before retiring in 2017. He later served as Athletic Director from 2005 to 2023, mentoring generations of students and helping found the North Jersey Interscholastic Conference (NJIC). Remembered for his leadership, “tough love,” and lasting impact, Coach Tirico passed away on February 21, 2026, at age 69, leaving behind his wife, Lois, and children Chelsea, Dominic, and Andrea. 

“Coach Tirico had a tremendous impact on my life. He always made sure I had a job and stayed out of trouble. He’s the reason why I am a football coach today.”

Coach Guy Bertola, former player from 88-92

Defensive Coordinator at Hasbrouck Heights HS.

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The scholarship helps carry forward Coach Tirico’s lasting legacy.​

• Scholarship Structure & Awards

  • Four total recipients selected each year

  • North Jersey: 1 Boy / 1 Girl 

  • South Jersey: 1 Boy/ 1 Girl

  • Awards presented at the conclusion of the All-Star Games

• Eligibility Criteria

  • Open to senior student-athletes participating in the All-Star Game

  • Candidates must demonstrate:

    • Strong leadership qualities

    • A team-first mentality

    • Resilience and perseverance through adversity

    • Active involvement in their community

    • Good academic standing

• Nomination Process

  • Nominations are driven by the athletes themselves, reinforcing initiative and personal accountability

  • Submission deadline: Will Be Announced

  • Nominations will Include a short essay component (250–500 words)

    • “What does ‘team over self’ mean to you?”

    • “Describe a challenge in your athletic career and how you responded.”

    • “How will you carry the lessons of football into your future?”

    • ​"What does leadership look like?"

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Through this process, the scholarship becomes more than an award—it becomes a reflection of the values instilled by the game and a bridge to Coach Tirico Legacy.