A Night to Honor Coach Kevin Gilbride, ‘74
June 4, 2026, 5:00 pm
The Celebration of Kevin Gilbride
Super Bowl Winner 2007, 2011
Join us for a special evening honoring the remarkable career of Coach Gilbride.
Date: Thursday, June 4, 2026, 5:00 p.m.
Location: Aria Banquet Facility, 45 Murphy Road, Prospect, CT
If you are unable to attend and would like to make a contribution to support the Men’s Football Fund, please consider making a donation.
Kevin Gilbride
Kevin Gilbride ’74, made history as the first Southern graduate to become a head coach in the National Football League, leading the San Diego Chargers in 1997. A former Owls tight end and quarterback, he also served as head coach at Southern from 1980 to 1984, posting an impressive 35-14 record. Gilbridge built an accomplished coaching career spanning college football, the Canadian Football League, and the NFL, including offensive coordinator roles with the Houston Oilers and Jacksonville Jaguars. Gilbride capped his career by winning two Super Bowls in 2007 and 2011 as the offensive coordinator of the New York Giants coaching staff.
Join us to celebrate Coach Gilbride’s remarkable career, along with several of his colleagues and friends. Enjoy a cocktail hour, cash bar, sit-down dinner, and a speaking program during the evening.
Master of Ceremonies George Grande
Legendary American sportscaster, best known as the first anchor of ESPN’s SportsCenter in 1979 and the longtime television voice of the Cincinnati Reds, will join us as host for the evening. A Connecticut native and USC baseball alumnus, he also announced for the Yankees and Cardinals, and hosted the Baseball Hall of Fame induction ceremonies for 31 years.
Ticket Prices
- Full Table – $2,500 (ten seats)
- Half Table – $1,300 (five seats)
- Individual – $275
Venue Highlights
Located at the elegant Villa Rosa, Aria Wedding & Banquet Facility is renowned for its timeless beauty and exceptional service. Now entering its third decade, Aria continues to set the standard for unforgettable events. Consistently rated as a five-star wedding venue by WeddingReports.com, Aria is the perfect setting for celebrations of all kinds.
Menu
Appetizers
Mediterranean Station
La Toscana Station
Prosciutto Station
Hot Hors D’Oeuvres
Entree
We will be serving a formal sit down dinner
Aria Traditional Salad
Pasta
Filet Mignon w/ garlic mash potatoes
Dessert
Coffee & Tea
Cheesecake
Expresso
Drinks
Cash bar will be available
Wine will be at each table
Travel Information
Airports
Bradley International Airport (BDL)
Approximately 30 miles from the venue
Tweed New Haven Airport (HVN)
Approximately 35 miles from the venue
Local Hotels
Residence Inn by Marriott Southington
778 West St, Southington, CT 06489
(860) 621-4440
Book Your Group Rate
The Courtyard Marriott
1081 West St, Southington, CT 06489
(860) 620-1100
Reserve Your Sponsorship
This fundraising event will support the men’s football program at SCSU. We invite you to join us as a partner in this memorable event. For sponsorship opportunities, please contact Ray Reid at reidr12@southernct.edu or call him at 860-922-1110.
