Southern Connecticut State University Athletics is sad to announce that men's soccer All-American John DeBrito passed away on Wednesday, Mar. 25, 2020. DeBrito was a 2019 SCSU Hall of Fame Inductee. Born in 1968, he was just 51 years old.

"We are terribly saddened to hear of John's passing," Director of Athletics Jay Moran said. "I had the pleasure of meeting and speaking with John at last year's Hall of Fame Dinner. He was very soft spoken and humble about his very-well deserved honor. He was an all-time great student-athlete at Southern Connecticut and our thoughts and prayers are with John's family at this extremely difficult time."

DeBrito was a four-year member of the Southern Connecticut men's soccer team from 1987 through 1990. During his time, DeBrito led the Owls to the program's first NCAA National Championship in 1987 and also in 1990.

Former Owls' head coach Ray Reid commented on Twitter:

"We lost a great one yesterday. Former SCSU star John DeBrito passed away at the age of 51. His smile could light up a room. John led SCSU to 2 national championships. More importantly, he was a fantastic father, son and brother. We Will miss you John. Rest in Peace, #14." 
 

We lost a great one yesterday. Former SCSU star John DeBrito passed away at the age of 51. His smile could light up the room. John led SCSU to 2 national championships. More importantly, he was a fantastic father, son and brother. We Will miss you John. Rest In Peace, #14.

— Ray Reid (@CoachRayReid) March 26, 2020

DeBrito was the first SCSU men's soccer student-athlete to record 30 assists in his career, finishing with 32 for the fourth-most in program history. DeBrito also scored 20 goals and ranks 16th all-time with 72 points. 

"John was a class-act, a really great person," current Owls head coach Tom Lang said. "He was a legendary player and one of the all-time greats at Southern Connecticut. We're all going to mourn and grieve his passing."

DeBrito was a two-time NSCAA/United Soccer Coaches Association All-American, earning Second Team honors in 1988 and First Team honors in 1989. Upon his graduation, DeBrito made six appearances with the United States National Team in 1991-92 and also with the US team at the 1993 World University Games. 

DeBrito played professionally after his collegiate career and was taken in the Inaugural Major League Soccer (MLS) Draft in 1996 by the New England Revolution. He also played for the New York/New Jersey MetroStars, Kansas City Wizards, Columbus Crew and the Dallas Burn.