Villanova, Pa. – Villanova University is proud to announce a $1 million gift from Stephen Curry '99 VSB to endow the first-ever non-head coaching position in Villanova Athletics. This leadership gift will endow Villanova Football's defensive coordinator position and provide funding to support the program.
"We are deeply grateful to Steve for his extraordinary vision and commitment to Villanova Football," said Eric Roedl '97, Vice President and Director of Athletics. "This transformational gift will have a lasting impact on our program, enhancing opportunities for our football student-athletes and strengthening our pursuit of excellence. As we build on the success of last season's FCS semifinal appearance and enter a new era in the Patriot League, Steve's generosity will help continue to position the Villanova Football program among the nation's elite."
In honor of the gift and the support this fund will provide to the defensive coordinator, it will be named the Steve Curry '99 Defensive Coordinator Endowed Fund. The gift will also provide flexible financial support for the Villanova Football program as the team sustains its incredible momentum—both on and off the field.
Curry was a linebacker at Villanova where he played from 1996-1998. Throughout his Wildcat career, he tallied 114 tackles, including 80 solo stops to go with seven tackles for loss, four fumble recoveries, one interception and a forced fumble. During the 1997 season, he was a member of the Villanova team that finished the regular season ranked number one in the country with an 11-0 record. That Wildcat squad advanced to the NCAA quarterfinals and finished with a 12-1 mark. Even after graduating from Villanova, he continues to provide career coaching and mentorship to Villanova student athletes. His passion for the game of football led him to a coaching position at Dexter Southfield School in Brookline, Mass., where he has served for the past five seasons.
"This gift is a critical philanthropic investment for Villanova Football to ensure its continued success," Mark Ferrante, the Thomas and Diane Treacy Endowed Football Head Coach said. "My hope is that this gift will inspire other dedicated Villanovans to give to the Villanova Football Program. The funds from this gift will serve the long-term needs of the defensive coordinator position that will help us to recruit and retain top coaching talent, as well as strengthen the Football program, allowing other funds to be used for players' facilities, recruiting budgets or other staffing needs."
Villanova Football's 2025 season was one of the strongest in program history, ending with a 12-3 record, a CAA title chase and a run all the way to the FCS semifinals. This was their fourth semifinal appearance in program history. In finishing 12-3 overall and 7-1 in the CAA, the Wildcats earned a top-five national ranking in both major FCS polls. The season also marked the second-most wins ever (12) and strong home dominance (7-1 at Villanova Stadium).
The Wildcats will begin their inaugural season in the Patriot League on Friday, August 28, with a 6:00 p.m. matchup at home against the conference's other new squad, William & Mary.
