Article Courtesy of Wittenberg University Athletics
Wittenberg University was heartbroken to learn of the unexpected passing of sophomore football player, Cosmas Catanzaro.
Catanzaro passed away this afternoon, Friday, December 28, at Mercy Hospital after collapsing while out for a run in his hometown of Springfield, Ohio. “Cossy was a great kid,” said Wittenberg head football coach Joe Fincham. “He was really respected and liked equally by his teammates. He was that type of kid campus wide. The Catholic Central family is a very tight-knit group of people. There were a stream of people coming into the ER when we were there. It was heartbreaking, but it’s such an impressive community. Cossy was a hardworker. He always came to practice, weightlifting, whatever it was. People just liked being around him. I did, too.”
Catanzaro, who graduated from nearby Springfield Catholic Central High School in 2017, was a two-year member of the Wittenberg University football team.
“We extend our deepest sympathy and prayers to Cosmas’ family, friends, professors, football teammates and our entire campus community.” said Wittenberg University President Dr. Michael Frandsen.
“I want to extend my deepest condolences to the Catanzaro family, to the Catholic Central community and to all the lives Cossy impacted here at Wittenberg.” said Wittenberg Vice President and Director of Athletics Dr. Gary Williams. “Moments like today are impossible to put into words whenever someone so young, strong, and loved by many is lost. Hoping all those whose lives Cossy touched can find hope in the midst of sorry and comfort for their pain and loss.”
Memorial donations may be made to Catholic Central School.
