ITHACA, NY (607NewsNow) – Ithaca College is recognizing a long-time athletics leader in perpetuity.

On February 6, the baseball program announced the creation of a legacy number to honor retired coach George Valesente.

Each season, the team will pick a player who embodies Valesente’s values, leadership, and commitment, both on and off the field, to wear #8. The program believes it’s the best way to keep his legacy alive, rather than retiring his number.

Valesente coached IC for 41 seasons, won two national titles, and never had a losing season. The Bombers are currently led by son David Valesente, who took over in 2019 upon George’s retirement.

You can read more from Ithaca College here.