University of San Francisco Athletics

Richard Anthony "Dick" Stanfel, who won three NFL Championships as a player and coach after an outstanding playing career at USF, passed away on June 22 at his home in Libertyville, Ill. He was 87 years old.
 
Born on July 20, 1927 in San Francisco, Mr. Stanfel attended Commerce High School in the city before enrolling at USF, where he was a standout offensive lineman for the Dons. He was drafted in the second round of the 1951 NFL Draft by the Detroit Lions and enjoyed a seven-year professional career with the Lions (1952-55) and Washington Redskins (1956-58). He was part of two NFL championship teams in his four seasons in Detroit. A five-time Pro Bowler, Mr. Stanfel was named to the NFL's All-Decade Team of the 1950's and was voted as one of the 70 Greatest Redskins of all-time in 2002.
 
Following his playing career, Stanfel joined the coaching staff at Notre Dame and also served on the staff at California before returning to the NFL with the Philadelphia Eagles in 1964. Following a seven-year stay in Philadelphia, Stanfel joined the San Francisco 49er staff in 1971 before moving onto New Orleans for five seasons (1976-80). From 1981-92, he served as the offensive line coach of the Chicago Bears under Mike Ditka. Under his direction, the Bears offensive line paved the way for running back Walter Payton and provided protection for quarterback Jim McMahon, leading to the Bears 1985 Super Bowl title.
 
"We are saddened at the passing of Don legend Dick Stanfel," said USF Director of Athletics Scott Sidwell. "Dick was a tremendous man who throughout his life represented all that embodies being a USF Dons. His impact on the game was evident by the respect of his peers and tremendous accomplishments as a player and coach."