Former Bristol Central coach and athletic coordinator Bob DeSantis dies at 77

Longtime Bristol Central High School physical education teacher and athletic coordinator Bob DeSantis died Thursday at age 77. A fixture in the school’s athletic department for nearly 50 years, DeSantis coached multiple sports and was known for his mentorship of students and staff. He retired from the school in 2021 after a tenure that included serving as an athletic coordinator. In late 2025, the school honored his contributions by placing his name on a scoreboard within the Charles C. Marsh Gymnasium. Colleagues and former players cited his influence on the community and his commitment to the development of student-athletes throughout his career.

• 12:09 AMYahoo Sports — Bob DeSantis, beloved Bristol Central coach, athletic director, dies at 77: ‘One of the good guys'