Columbia Athletics Mourns the Passing of Rocco B. Commisso '71SEAS '75BUS
1/17/2026 4:00:00 PM | General, Men's Soccer, Women's Soccer
The former men’s soccer standout, owner of Mediacom, ACF Fiorentina, passed on Friday at the age of 76
Born in Calabria, Italy, Commisso immigrated to the United States at the age of 12 and earned a full four-year undergraduate scholarship to attend Columbia. A three-year All-Ivy League honoree both as a defensive and offensive player, Commisso guided the Lions to winning records in all four of his seasons with the Lions. As co-captain of the 1970 squad, he helped lead the program to its first-ever NCAA Tournament appearance. He was also a member of a freshman squad that finished with an undefeated record and was invited to try out for the 1972 U.S. Olympic Team.
Off the field, Commisso was a visionary entrepreneur, founding Mediacom Communications in 1995 and guiding it into one of the nation's largest cable television providers. His success in business was matched by his continued passion for soccer, which included ownership roles with the New York Cosmos and the Italian Serie A club ACF Fiorentina.
His commitment to Columbia Athletics extended far beyond his playing days. He co-founded Friends of Columbia Soccer, served as its chairman, and generously supported the program's growth at every stage. In 2013, in recognition of his extraordinary contributions, Columbia named its soccer facility the Rocco B. Commisso Soccer Stadium at the Baker Athletics Complex. Additionally, his leadership was instrumental in the establishment of the Bubble at Baker in 2016.
"Rocco had such an incredible spirit and was a true leader in the world of business and sports," said Peter Pilling, Campbell Family Director of Athletics. "His impact on our athletics program was immeasurable, and we will miss his presence. Our condolences go out to Rocco's family and friends during this time."
For his contributions on and off the pitch, Commisso was inducted into the Columbia Athletics Hall of Fame in 2016.
"Rocco B. Commisso's impact on Columbia Soccer is lasting and profound," said Columbia women's soccer head coach Tracey Bartholomew. "Rocco never lost sight of the opportunity Columbia afforded him, and he believed passionately in providing the highest level of support for our student-athletes, both on and off the field. He was a faithful supporter and devoted fan of Columbia soccer, who encouraged me to build something special, to grow the game, and inspire the team to win."
"We are incredibly saddened by the news of Rocco's passing," added Columbia men's soccer head coach Michael Casper. "Rocco represented the very best of our men's soccer program and of Columbia University. He was deeply passionate about our student-athletes, their development on and off the field, and the experience they carried with them long after their time at Columbia."
He is survived by his loving wife, Catherine, their children Giuseppe and Marisa, and his extended family and friends.
