Athletics at Lisle
Athletics
Benedictine University is a proud charter member of the Northern Athletics Collegiate Conference, one of the largest conferences in NCAA Division III.
Anthony “Tony” LaScala Fund for Men’s Basketball
Hall of Fame Coach Tony LaScala served Benedictine in many roles during his lengthy tenure, including as athletic director. As the men’s basketball coach, LaScala was the winningest coach in program history until recently, racking up 385 wins over 29 years. An endowed fund has been established in Coach LaScala’s name to support the men’s basketball program.
Tom Wirtz Award for Courage and Integrity
Less than fifteen years after graduation from Benedictine in 1973, where he became the football team captain his senior year and met his wife, Tom Wirtz was diagnosed with a disease that ultimately took his life. While courageously battling his illness, Tom continued to coach and mentor his children, organized events for his friends, enjoyed life and worked hard. His quiet leadership was a beacon of hope for everyone who came in contact with him. The Tom Wirtz Award for Courage was established after he passed away in 2013.
The Bob Conwell Memorial Endowment
Until his passing in 2007, Bob was an assistant football coach at Benedictine University. At that time, an endowed fund was established to support the Benedictine University Athletic Department.
John Ostrowski Endowed Fund for Baseball
John Ostrowski dedicated 43 years of service to Benedictine University in a wide array of roles that helped grow his faith while influencing countless young adults. Coach O won over 900 games as the head baseball coach at Benedictine, one of the all-time winningest coaches in NCAA Division III history. A fund was established in his name with proceeds supporting the baseball team.
The Eagle Club
The Eagle Club is the fundraising arm for the Benedictine University Department of Athletics. The Eagle Club is comprised of former student-athletes, parents, BenU faculty and staff, corporate partners, family and fans who have chose to commit financially to the continued growth and success of Benedictine Athletics.
In accordance with the mission of the university, the Eagle Club strives to prepare our students for a lifetime as active, informed and responsible citizens and leaders in the world community. The Eagle Club is committed to giving our student-athletes the tools and resources they need to be successful on and off the playing field. The Eagle Club supplies academic and athletic resources to all of our more than 500 student-athletes making up 21 different sports.
As operating costs continue to rise, Eagle Club members allow for student-athletes to succeed as champions!
Tailgating
Tailgating, prior to sporting events, has long been a tradition not only with professional sports but also at the collegiate level.