Football Team Room Named In Honor Of Jim DeVincentis
6/20/2011 12:00:00 AM | Football
KENT, Ohio — Kent State's football team room was recently named in honor of Jim DeVincentis, a longtime supporter of Golden Flashes athletics and a 1984 inductee into the Varsity "K" Hall of Fame.
DeVincentis was a four-time NCAA qualifier and was twice voted captain of Kent State's swimming team. Named the Mid-American Conference's Most Outstanding Swimmer in 1975, the McKeesport, Pa., native won 13 MAC Championships (6 individual, 7 relay) and set three school and seven conference records.
"I had a very enjoyable and positive experience as a student-athlete at Kent State, one that significantly impacted my life," says DeVincentis. "I firmly believe that kind of experience should be a strong impetus for one to give back, in an area of personal interest and at an amount that is comfortable. If enough of us get involved, it will create an environment of decided change in the lives of all students, not just student-athletes."
DeVincentis graduated from Kent State in 1975 with a bachelor's degree in telecommunications/business and currently serves as member of the National Athletic Development Council. He and his wife, Georgia, reside in Pittsburgh. His daughters, Dina and Maria, both attend Kent State.
"I've grown to know Jimmy D very well over the last year as a man who has tremendous passion for his alma mater and the welfare of our students," says Kent State Director of Athletics Joel Nielsen. "We're fortunate to have him as part of the Kent State family and we are grateful for his continued generosity."
"In my short time here, I've quickly come to realize that Jimmy D gets 'it' and has a true passion for Kent State University," says head football coach Darrell Hazell. "He understands the important role that resources play in a student-athlete's success on and off the field."
The newly-renovated space includes extensive wall graphics, an enhanced video system and ample seating for the entire team.
