Nick Pietrosante

Nick Pietrosante (September 10, 1937 in Derby, Connecticut – February 6, 1988 in Detroit, Michigan) was an All-Pro fullback in the National Football League. Raised in Ansonia, Connecticut, he attended Notre Dame High School of West Haven, Connecticut, graduating with the Class of 1954. He was the first All State athlete at Notre Dame High School. Pietrosante was a star fullback at the University of Notre Dame, He was a first round draft pick in the 1959 NFL Draft by the Detroit Lions. Featured on cover of Sports Illustrated. NFL Rookie of the Year 1959. Multiple Pro Bowl selectee. Held all-time rushing record while at Detroit, (1959–1965). Cleveland Browns, (1966–1967). Notre Dame annually recognizes outstanding player with award in his memory. In his senior year at Notre Dame High School in West Haven, CT he led the 1954 team to their first undefeated season and state championship ever scoring 155 points of the 356 points scored. He also ran the hundred yard dash in 10.2 seconds for the track team.

Nick Pietrosante died of cancer at age 50.