Cougar Riccio, 77, Student of Game

April 1, 2015 – Joe Ruggiero SSUSA staff

By Joseph Ruggiero

Softball News Report

Anthony J. Riccio, 77, of Littleton, Colo., lost a long hard-fought battle with cancer at his home on February 19. An eight-year veteran of Senior Softball, Tony was a member of Colorado Cougar’s, helping the squad win four national championships.

A fierce hitter and skilled outfielder with a strong arm and quick feet, Tony was “extremely passionate about softball.” Colorado Cougars Manager, Charles Kasson, added that though Tony was competitive, he always displayed integrity and believed in fairness on and off the field.

Not only athletic, Tony also studied the game and it served him well as co-manager and left center. “He could tell you all the players stats from California, Nevada, Utah, you name it” said Kasson.

Willing to talk to anyone, Tony always greeted with a firm handshake and a friendly smile. Described by friends and those close to him as a man with a big heart, Riccio was loved by his fellow teammates and family and will be greatly missed.