Eric Birighitti
NAIA – Hastings College
Nebraska
From: Perth, Western Australia – NPL WA
Athletic Scholarship – NAIA
The Journey
Eric Birighitti's story is one of extraordinary talent, rare courage on the field, and a legacy that will live forever in the memory of Upper 90 College and everyone who watched him play. A Perth-born defender with exceptional vision and instincts, Eric arrived at Hastings College in Nebraska as a freshman for the 2016 season, joining a squad that would go on to complete one of the most dominant championship runs in NAIA history. Despite being a first-year student, Eric quickly established himself as a key contributor in the Broncos' defensive setup, bringing Australian tenacity and technical quality to the Great Plains. The moment that cemented Eric's place in Upper 90 College history came in the 57th minute of the 2016 NAIA Men's Soccer National Championship Final. With the score goalless against Rio Grande of Ohio, Eric – playing off the bench in a team committed to grinding out results – produced a perfectly weighted through ball from midfield that found the feet of Lucas Venegas, who slotted the ball into the net for the only goal of the game. Hastings College were 2016 NAIA National Champions, and Eric's assist was the decisive contribution. The Broncos finished the season 24-0-1 – unbeaten national champions. Eric returned for the 2017 season, helping Hastings reach the NAIA Championship again before transferring to St. Thomas Aquinas College in New York (NCAA Division II) to continue his academic and athletic journey. Eric Birighitti passed away in January 2020 at the age of 21 in a tragic accident on Western Australia's south coast. He is remembered by Hastings College, his Upper 90 family, and the Australian football community as a fearless competitor, a generous teammate, and a young man of enormous character. His number and his contribution will never be forgotten.
Challenges Overcome
As a freshman at one of the NAIA's most competitive programs, Eric had to earn his place in a squad filled with experienced players. His composure, work rate, and ability to perform in the highest-pressure moments – including the national championship final – spoke to a maturity far beyond his years. Off the field, he navigated being far from home in Western Australia while managing the rigours of full-time study and elite sport.
Achievements
2016 NAIA Men's Soccer National Champion with Hastings College. Provided the championship-winning assist in the 2016 NAIA Final – the decisive through ball to Lucas Venegas in the 57th minute of a 1-0 victory over Rio Grande. Part of Hastings' historic unbeaten 24-0-1 season. Returned for 2017 season and contributed to another deep NAIA tournament run. Transferred to St. Thomas Aquinas College (NCAA Division II) to continue playing career.
"Eric played for Hastings during the 2016 & 2017 season and won a national title with the team. He will be truly missed and our thoughts are with his family."
— Hastings College Athletics, January 2020
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