Concordia-St. Paul Athletic Hall of Fame
Coach Chiapuzio or "Chopper" as he was known to many had a tremendous impact and a positive influence on the many athletes who played for him. He was highly competative and loved to win, stressing self-discipline, a "never give up" attitude, and maximum effort. But Coach Chiapuzio also emphasized the importance of a spiritual commitment, never letting his players forget the big picture. Coach Chiapuzio was very instrumental in starting Concordia St. Paul's football program. And in the first four years of existence, he had an overall record of 18 wins and 15 losses. He also successfully coached the wrestling and baseball teams, making the NAIA baseball playoffs several years, and winning a Tri-State Conference baseball championship. John Chiapuzio was a professor and coach at Concordia St. Paul from 1965-1973. In 1973 he became athletic director at Sheldon High School in Eugene, OR where he also worked as a teacher and coach until his untimely death in 1986.
