History of the Adam J. Cirillo Foundation

The Adam J. Cirillo Foundation was formally established on June 19^th, 1968 as a charitable trust. It was named after the legendary football coach of Brooklyn Tech, Adam J. Cirillo.

With $410.00, donated by Arthur R. Stelljes, the Board of Directors began its quest to assist worthy and deserving graduating football players of Brooklyn Technical High School to acquire a college education.

Adam Cirillo felt that football players were disadvantaged in their quest to compete with other students who solely devote their time to study while performing no extra-curricular activities for the school. Conversely, Adam felt participating in football enhanced both mind and body while developing leadership qualities and the work ethic necessary to succeed in life.

His players and friends believed so strongly in Adam’s philosophy, that they established the Adam J. Cirillo Scholarship Foundation to honor the impact he had on so many of his player’s lives. The first recipients of the scholarship were awarded $100 in 1968. Gradually, over the years, the scholarship was increased and today the award to a graduating Tech football player is $30,000.

The Foundation oversees two major fund raising activities, the Brooklyn Tech Football Hall of Fame and the Joe and Pat Cuzzocrea Annual Golf Outing. Additionally, the Foundation participates in the Team Awards Dinner and the Adam J. Cirillo Classic Homecoming Game.

The founding members of the Adam J. Cirillo Scholarship Foundation were Norman Carney, Arthur R. Stelljes, Dr. Joseph Devita, Vincent A. Dioguardi and of course, Adam J. Cirillo.