06/07/2026
A Tribute to a Coach, Mentor, and Friend
Today, with a heavy heart, I write to honor a remarkable man—a coach, a mentor, and a dear friend whose life touched so many: David Fusacchia. Some people pass through this world quietly, while others leave a mark so deep that their presence continues to be felt long after they are gone. David was one of those rare people.
I began playing CYO basketball in sixth grade, when our coaches were Sal Lopiano and Bobby Gennusa. By the time I reached seventh grade, Dave became our coach. I still remember that first practice clearly. More than 30 kids came out for the team, and I remember wondering whether I would make it. The first thing Dave said was, “Okay, 25 laps around the gym.” Anyone familiar with Father Ducci Hall at Pius X knows that meant running up and down those steps as well. By the next day, only 15 kids were left. When we got too hyper, you would hear him shout, “Take a break, take a break.” When we were lazy or lacked focus, he let us know just as quickly with his familiar call: “Get a job, get a job.”
Dave was the kind of coach who gave more than instruction—he gave belief. Under his leadership, we won the Allentown Diocese CYO Basketball Championship, not bad for a bunch of Italian kids from the small town of Roseto competing against teams from places like Allentown, Bethlehem, and Easton. He also coached our CYO football team, and of all the athletic teams I ever played on, that group came closest to showing me what a real team truly means. There was no ego, no complaining, and no “I” in team. Everyone contributed. I played outside linebacker, while others played only on kickoff or punt teams, but it did not matter. We were united.
One memory stands out in particular. When we played the Easton Trojans, we were warming up on the field when we realized that some of their players had driven themselves to the game. We were only 13 or 14 years old, and some of them looked 16. It did not matter. We won anyway on our way to the 1969 Little Royals CYO Championship. Moments like that reflected the confidence and toughness Dave inspired in us. He taught us not to be intimidated, not to make excuses, and always to believe in one another.
As the years went on, Dave remained much more than a former coach. When I started my catering business, he continued to be a mentor, offering wisdom with patience and kindness. He knew when to challenge me, when to encourage me, and how to guide without ever demanding recognition for himself. As a friend, he was a steady presence—a source of laughter, honesty, and strength. He showed up when it mattered, listened without judgment, and had a way of making people feel that they were never alone.
The lessons Dave taught, the courage he inspired, and the kindness he shared will continue to live on in every life he touched. His memory will be carried not only in sorrow, but also in gratitude, in stories, and in the countless ways he helped others become stronger, wiser, and more compassionate. For all he gave, for all he taught, and for the friendship he so freely shared, I will remain forever grateful. He will be deeply missed, forever remembered, and always cherished.
With love and gratitude,
Joseph C. DeFranco
