Joe Rizzo was a four-year letter winner for the football squad.  He was named All-ECAC, All-Conference, and All-America throughout his career.  Rizzo captained the 1972 team helping the Mariners record a 23-12-1 record over his four years.  He still holds the Academy record for longest punt; a 90-yarder in 1971.

After graduation Rizzo played with the Denver Broncos, becoming a starting linebacker in 1975 for the famed “Orange Crush” defense.  Rizzo led the Broncos to the 1978 Super Bowl against the Dallas Cowboys.  After the Super Bowl, Rizzo’s number 93 was retired by the academy.