FAIRLEIGH DICKINSON UNIVERSITY UNVEILS STATUE HONORING LEGENDARY BOWLING COACH MIKE LOPRESTI, THE CEREMONY WAS…
Fairleigh Dickinson University (FDU) made history today by unveiling a bronze statue honoring the legendary bowling coach Mike LoPresti, the winningest coach in NCAA women’s bowling history. The ceremony, held outside the Rothman Center, drew alumni, current athletes, university leadership, and fans from across the country.
LoPresti, who served as the founding coach of FDU’s women’s bowling program from 2002 to 2023, led the team to two NCAA national championships (2006, 2010) and over 1,674 career wins during his 21-year tenure.
“Coach LoPresti built this program from the ground up,” said FDU President Christopher Capuano. “His vision, mentorship, and unmatched passion for collegiate bowling made FDU a national powerhouse. This statue stands as a permanent reminder of the legacy he leaves behind.”
The statue, sculpted by acclaimed artist Dana Lang, features LoPresti mid-stride with a bowling ball in one hand and a clipboard in the other—a nod to both his tactical mind and his coaching fire. The base of the statue is inscribed with his major achievements and the words: “Builder. Champion. Mentor.”
Visibly moved, LoPresti addressed the crowd with humility. “This isn’t just about me,” he said. “It’s about every athlete who gave their all, every assistant coach who believed, and a university that dared to dream big in a niche sport. I’m forever grateful.”
The unveiling was followed by a ceremonial “first roll” on a portable lane set up for the event, with several FDU bowling alumni in attendance.
The statue is the first in NCAA history dedicated to a collegiate bowling coach, marking another groundbreaking achievement for both LoPresti and FDU.
