Brooklyn, NY — Announced recently, legendary baseball coach, educator, and alumnus Donald Landolphi has been selected for induction into the New York State Baseball Hall of Fame as a member of the Class of 2026. The induction ceremony will take place on November 22, 2026, recognizing Landolphi's remarkable lifetime of service and contributions to the game of baseball throughout New York State and around the world.
One of the most influential figures in Brooklyn College baseball history, Landolphi's impact on the BC athletic program extends far beyond the diamond. A Brooklyn College graduate and member of the Class of 1962, he served the institution with distinction as a professor, coach, administrator, mentor, and ambassador for more than three decades. During his coaching tenure, he guided the baseball program to seven consecutive winning seasons while also coaching the men's basketball program, becoming the only coach in school history to post winning records in both sports.
Landolphi's coaching career also included a successful stint at the United States Merchant Marine Academy before concluding as an assistant coach at St. John's University under Hall of Fame coach Joe Russo. Beyond the collegiate ranks, he became internationally recognized for his work growing the game of baseball through coaching clinics and instructional programs across Europe, South America, and Asia. He has served as an ambassador for both USA Baseball and Major League Baseball International, helping expand baseball's global reach.
A member of the Brooklyn College Athletics Hall of Fame since 1990, Landolphi has received numerous accolades throughout his distinguished career, including induction into the American Baseball Coaches Association Hall of Fame in 2007. In recent years, he has continued to make an impact by promoting and coaching baseball for visually impaired athletes, leading Team USA in international competition while continuing his lifelong mission of making the game accessible to all.
In addition to his coaching accomplishments, Landolphi authored two respected instructional baseball books and earned a reputation as one of the nation's premier baseball educators, speaking at countless coaching clinics and mentoring generations of players and coaches. His influence has extended well beyond wins and losses, leaving a lasting legacy through education, leadership, and service to the sport.
The New York State Baseball Hall of Fame honor represents another milestone in a career spanning more than six decades and serves as fitting recognition for one of Brooklyn College Athletics' most accomplished and respected ambassadors.
