University of New Haven Athletics

Stephen DiMugno was a true pioneer for the University of New Haven football program.

He joined the team before football was varsity sport and earned All-Eastern Collegiate Club Football Conference honors as a defensive back. He was instrumental in New Haven’s transition from club to varsity status.

DiMugno’s all-around athletic ability made him an invaluable member of the football team. The 1973 roster listed DiMugno as a defensive back but he also spent time as a running back and as a punt returner. He gained 75 yards on 24 carries in his first start as a running back, the school’s best single game performance at the time. He finished second in scoring, third in rushing and was considered to be one of the best defensive players for the 1973 season.

In 1974, DiMugno received a second term as captain and led the team in both interceptions and punt returns.

New Haven’s football tradition can be traced back to players like Steve DiMugno, whose leadership and dedication during the program’s early stages enabled the Chargers to become synonymous with success.