La Salle University Athletics

 Name: Lauren McGuire (Sewell, NJ)

Torp taught me how to push beyond what I thought I could do. He helped me become a stronger athlete and individual. Whether it was his quick witted comments or the little smile he'd shoot you as he glared you down for not knowing an answer to his question, he was always there in good and bad. I still have the video of Torp showing us that shot put isn't that hard as he threw it a practice one day. Torp you will be extremely missed by a family of hundreds of athletes whose lives you touched!
Submitted 7/2/2011 8:16:49 AM

Name: Don DiJulia (Philadelphia, PA)
On behalf of the entire Saint Joseph's University Athletics community, we share in the loss of a wonderful man and a talented coach. He was in the great spirit of St. Ignatius Loyola "a person with and for others".........I am proud to say that our son Michael DiJulia ran for Torp and had a most positive experience. Torp cared for the total person and yet challenged him to strive for more.
May the spirit of the Lord and many fond memories give his family Peace.
Submitted 7/2/2011 9:16:58 AM

Name: Fred Samara (Princeton, NJ)
The Princeton Track and Field family are all deeply saddened by the passing of Coach Torpey. Not only was Coach Torp a great coach, but more importantly he was a super person. He had a tremendous coaching record at LaSalle. My observation about his team was that they were always keen competitors, but always gentlemen who respected their competitors, but wanted to win. That ethic can only come from a coach who is a true leader and gentleman himself.
Submitted 7/2/2011 10:03:20 AM

Name: Troy Pepper (Lexington, SC)
Transfering from KU to UofMD I was a 19 yr old kid who had lost confidence in himself. Charlie believed in me even when I did not believe in myself and for that I am truly greatful. His impact on my life will never be forgotten. He was not only a good coach but a great friend. He called me about a month ago trying to convenience me he was the son of Bob Timmons (long time KU coach), and if I could make it to a reunion to honor his father, which was only a week away. Even though we only spoke every so many years, I knew that voice! Typical Charlie!!! : )
Submitted 7/2/2011 10:07:29 AM

Name: Bryan Skelly (Philadelphia, PA)
My parents taught me how to tell the truth to others, but Coach Torpey taught me how to tell the truth to myself. He was the most influential person in my life over the past 10 years. Sadly, the only person that I would look for to get advice during this time was Coach himself.
Submitted 7/2/2011 10:27:48 AM

Name: RJ Spalding (Rockville, MD)
As I was thinking about Coach Torpey, one of the things that came back to me was that certain look he had when coaching during a race. It was a combination of admiration and satisfaction on his face (and body) when one of his runners passed him and was running a smart and gritty race. Of course, the racers rarely saw that look because it came as he watched them run away. All they saw was an intense burst of instructions, encouragement, and enthusiasm. It looked like he loved how people threw themselves at a race and made the most of their talents.

The fact that he loved the sport and people enough to work with the elite and slower runners (like myself) meant so much to me. In addition to leading me to great improvements in running, giving me a great circle of friend, he helped me refine the focus and commitment that made me a better student and person. I will miss running into Charles at random races and am sad that he is no longer there to give others what he gave me.

Name: Leyna (Williams) Ambrose (Williamstown, New Jersey)
Coach Torpey was a mentor to me as well as a coach. He taught me what running was really about and I know that I am a better runner and person because of him. Torpey helped me achieve many of my goals and he helped me realize my dreams. I will never forget his infamous quotes and his motivational speeches that seriously changed me. He definitely has left a footprint in my heart. You will be missed coach and just remember even on the darkest, rainiest days it will forever be "65 and Sunny". Your memories will keep you alive forever. Love always, Leyna (Williams) Ambrose
Submitted 7/2/2011 10:56:28 AM

Name: Albert Cantello (Annapolis, MD)
Coach Torpey died doing what he had done all his life...sacrificing. His passion for his profession will for generations endure.
Submitted 7/2/2011 11:13:56 AM

Name: Jose Santos (Chicago, IL)
Coach Torp,

You taught us to be great student-athletes and to become even better human beings. We are successful in life because of the knowledge you provided us. You are a great coach, mentor, and friend. I am blessed for meeting and having a relationship with you. My prayers are with you and your family. Rest in peace Coach.

Love,

Jose '02

Name: Kathy Bessette (Wakefield, RI)
My daughter, Kerri Bessette was a member of the La Salle cross country and track teams. She was nervous at first wondering can I run for a Division 1 team. But Coach Torpey assured her it was possible and she loved every minute of it. Coach Torpey was extremely supportive of our family and the team when Kerri passed away. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family and the La Salle Community.
Submitted 7/2/2011 11:39:02 AM

Name: Scott Douglas (South Portland, ME)
I got to talk with Charles only a few times over the last 20 years, and run with him once, but doing so was always a pleasure. He had a rare combination of knowledge and passion.
Submitted 7/2/2011 12:18:00 PM

Name: Gary Fanelli (Glenside, Pa.)
Coach Charlie was a good friend, longtime friend. I met him in the early 1980's .He was a really good person and fabulous coach. He will be missed by so many.
Submitted 7/2/2011 12:30:51 PM

Name Br. Gerry Molyneaux (Phila., PA)
Message Charles made La Salle's cross country and track teams a point of pride for the university.
Submitted 7/2/2011 12:42:05 PM

Name: Jimmie Gillespie (Honolulu, Hawaii)
 What a sad loss for the Torpey and La Salle University Families. I was fortunate to work for the office of Academic Support for Student Athletes as an undergrad. Torp was not only the best coach at La Salle, but one of the greatest leaders and role models for his student-athletes. I was a pleasure to work with the cross country/track students while I was at La Salle and much of the reason was because Coach recruited solid young people and helped them become leaders themselves as adults. I now work at the University of Hawaii at Maona and absolutely love when I have the opportunity to work with coaches as passionate, prideful and caring as Coach Torpey was.
Submitted 7/2/2011 1:41:18 PM

Name: Kale Beers (LA SALLE)
Message Those of us in the administration and in the La Salle community are devastated at the sudden passing of our friend and colleague. Charles was the most unique person and coach in our department.
One day last spring I took a personal day and did one of the things I love best - went for a long trail run in the Wissahickon Creek Park. I had been on the upper trails for quite a while when I decided to head down to the towpath and wrap things up. As I broke out of the trees and rounded the corner I found myself smack in the middle of the La Salle track team and Torp staging his runners for the next work-out. As if it wasn't at allunusual to see a co-worker on the trail at that time of day, Torp wasn't even fazed. He reacted casually and said, "Kale, we're about set to start - jump in with these guys." As if I dared to even consider running with his elite athletes . . . but that was just his personality - dry, witty, cerebral.

He had no problems talking running and the nuances of the sport even at the basic recreational level and he related to people like me and those of us who run just to stay in shape.
This is a huge loss for all of us and we will miss him greatly. My wife and I send our personal thoughts to his family.
Submitted 7/2/2011 1:04:23 PM

Name Steve Nester (Cincinnati, Ohio)
Message Coach Torpey was a great mentor to me when I became the Head Cross Country & Track Coach at Xavier University. Every Coach in the A-10 really respected him. The thing that struck me the most was how much his Student-Athletes were willing to run through the wall for him. They competed with the same intensity and attitude of their Coach. My prayers go out to his family and the entire LaSalle University Athletic Department.
Submitted 7/2/2011 1:05:22 PM

Name Michael LoSapio (Wilmington, Delaware)
Torpey taught me so much about running, but more about that fire that is inside all of us. I remember placing 3rd at IC4A’s and after the race he says “you should have passed that kid before the turn and you could have gotten 2nd”….haha. Always keeping us on our toes and striving for more. He lived his life as a perfectionist and anyone who ran for him is probably more successful in life because of that.
Submitted 7/2/2011 1:42:54 PM

Name: Jack Marczely (Marlton, NJ)
As a non-athlete I did not get to experience Charles as many others that had the benefit of his professional guidence and expertise. As a member of the Explorer Club board and supporter of his program, however,I do know upclose of his talents and character as a coach and dedication to our students and the individuals in our track program.......his wit and insight into relationships. Charles, you taught us more than winning on the track and plain......you taught us to care and excell...a mere thanks does not seem sufficient....thank you. we join in prayer for you, wife and children.....and the La Salle community.
Submitted 7/2/2011 1:44:29 PM

Name: Mike Robinson
Torp was a mentor to me during a difficult time in my life. His encouragement on and off the track, and his honesty about his life path helped me become a better person. Fittingly, one of the last things he said to me was, "Mike, youre a good man." Thanks for positively affecting my life and countless others. You are an inspiration.
Submitted 7/2/2011 1:51:02 PM

Name: Carolyn Forde Buresh (Silver Spring, MD)
Too many memories for this blog to hold! Five years of intensity which have changed my life forever. He recruited me in his first recruit class to University of MD, College Park to start in Fall of 1982. I remember stealing bananas for him from the dining hall. They had to be perfect and yellow--never bruised or brown or green. And I'd bring them with a container of fresh whole milk but it had to have an expiration date a million years off! :-) I love you, Charles!
Submitted 7/2/2011 1:57:14 PM

Name: Brigid (Benner) Dougherty (Haddonfield, NJ)
I can't quite find the words to express my sadness. Torpey was the perfect combination of a coach and fatherly figure during my years at La Salle. I will forever be thankful for those years. He truly touched my life.
Submitted 7/2/2011 2:17:41 PM

Name: David Keating (New Britain, CT)
Message Condolences to the La Salle distance running community

Charles was my assistant X-C coach at Canterbury School in New Milford CT between 1977 and 1978. He was a terrific runner, and an inspirational coach. Funny story about Charles.. one time we were doing repeat halves on an absurdly hot day. Between halves, we would jog a quarter ,where Charles would hand us cups of water and say "you guys may be ugly, but your are not half-bad runners". Which just made us laugh and forget our misery.

He was just a decent, kind person, and a loving coach.. He will be missed. May the Good Lord provide solace & comfort to his wife and three children.
Submitted 7/2/2011 2:50:43 PM

Name: John Butler (Hummelstown, PA)
To say that Torp was a mentor is a severe understatement. He helped me through some of the toughest parts of my adolescence with long talks in his office. He continued to believe in me at times when I didn't even believe in myself. My favorite times with him were the times when I simply had an hour to kill so I walked to the office just to talk. As I coach my high school team now, I find myself saying things that he would say: "We eat to run, we don't run to eat" "It's a race, nobody is going to shoot you, and you're not shooting them" "Don't fear this, embrace it" "We're good man, we're gooooood, we're goooooood, we're not great, we're gooooood" and many others...I love you Coach. RIP.
Submitted 7/2/2011 3:19:18 PM

Name Alena Petty (Phoenix, AZ)
Coach Torpey will be missed, but our experiences with him will affect us forever. He believed in me when no one else would have, and he gave me chances I wouldn't have given myself. He made us not only stronger runners, but stronger people. I will always feel honored to have been able to know him and call him "Coach."
To his family: I hope you can find peace in all the good memories and knowing how he so positively impacted so many lives.
Submitted 7/2/2011 3:32:58 PM

Name: Bill Butler (Corning, NY)
My deepest condolences to Janice and the kids on Charles' passing. My lasting image of Torp will always be with that wry smile of his. He was a good coach and mentor to countless athletes. Charles will be missed, but his legacy will live on in those for whom he worked so hard to make successful. Rest in peace, brother!
Submitted 7/2/2011 3:33:29 PM

Name: Phil Reilly (Philadelphia)
When it comes to Torp, it is impossible to narrow down his impact to one instance. One that sticks out, however, is when during freshman year orientation I missed an afternoon practice to go to some other function. Torp pulled me aside and when I said that I had an academic scholarship not athletic he told me that it would stay that way with that attitude. From that moment on I never missed another practice. I wish I could say I progressed from a walk-on dreamer to a schlorship-caliber athlete but I didn't. But Torp never gave up on me and more importantly never let me give up on myself. Not only that, he made me feel that my running mattered just as much as anyone else's. Hopefully I make my runners feel the same way.
Submitted 7/2/2011 4:26:52 PM

Name: Pat Walker Kolakowski (former Terrapin) (Fredericksburg,VA)
He was always smiling,laughing;could find the positive in the most negative situations.Just an all around nice guy and great coach.Truly cared about his runners, not just for their abilities but cared about their lives and happiness.
Submitted 7/2/2011 4:37:59 PM

Name: Mike Brady,Former Cross Country Coach,Princeton University (Atlanta,Ga)
Deeply saddened by the news. Charlie was one of the most passionate coaches I ever met. It was not a job to him,it was a lifestyle. His athletes reflected his work ethic and burning desire to compete at their very best. Track and Field was a better sport because of the efforts that Torp put forth daily.His was truly a race well run.
Submitted 7/2/2011 4:51:46 PM

Name: John Butler (Hummelstown, PA)
To say that Torp was a mentor is a severe understatement. He helped me through some of the toughest parts of my adolescence with long talks in his office. He continued to believe in me at times when I didn't even believe in myself. My favorite times with him were the times when I simply had an hour to kill so I walked to the office just to talk. As I coach my high school team now, I find myself saying things that he would say: "We eat to run, we don't run to eat" "It's a race, nobody is going to shoot you, and you're not shooting them" "Don't fear this, embrace it" "We're good man, we're gooooood, we're goooooood, we're not great, we're gooooood" and many others...I love you Coach. RIP.
Submitted 7/2/2011 4:56:03 PM


Name: Pat Ayling (Philadelphia, PA)
I'll always remember Torp just sitting in the office at all hours of the day just telling all kinds of stories to whoever would listen. I'll definitely miss being able to walk in and BS with him whenever I had a break between classes, and I haven't had a bigger influence on my track career. RIP coach, you'll be missed.
Submitted 7/2/2011 5:31:54 PM

Name: Paul Murray (Jupiter, Florida)
I was a walk on at Maryland and had a little bit of a breakthrough (for me) by running a good relay split at the ACC indoor meet 2 mile relay. I got the baton deep and handed off with a lead. When I saw coach Torpey, the first thing he said to me was "I am a great coach!" It was so Coach Torpey.
Submitted 7/2/2011 6:26:08 PM

Name: Joseph Kapsch (DeBary, Florida)
Message Thank you Mr. Torpey for everything you did for the student athletes of La Salle University.
Submitted 7/2/2011 7:07:59 PM

Name: Meagan Gren Sarcone (Cromwell CT)
A coach who cared about whether you were the best athlele on the team or not. He asked me everyday that I was injured how I was feeling that day and what I thought I felt up to doing for a work you. I will miss you coach and thanks for everything you dis for me.
Submitted 7/2/2011 7:10:38 PM

Name: Patricia Bearish (Coopersburg, PA)
I remember the first time meeting Coach, I told him flat out I did not want my daughter, Stephanie to go to La Salle because of the location, but after talking to him, he convinced me that La Salle would be the right fit for her and she and I have never regretted making the decision to come to La Salle. He has made her a better runner and a dedicated student just like he promised me!
Submitted 7/2/2011 7:20:05 PM

Name Jim Lear (Pittsburgh, PA)
Coach Torpey most surely made the A10 a MUCH BETTER distance-running conference during his tenure at LaSalle. He gave all of us a tough target to go after with his strong, La Salle distance groups and in the process everyone became better! God Bless! Jim Lear, Duquesne University

Name Larry Newman (Ayers Village, Massachusetts)
The untimely death of Coach Torpey leaves a big void in the IC4A coaching fraternity. We crossed paths in the early 70's when he was at Keene State, and I was finishing studies at Northeastern. What a great stat guy he was at that time. Always ready to compare notes and lists from Franklin Park and other t&f venues. Was a walking encyclopedia of t&f. Years later it gave me great pleasure [and continues to do so] serving as the IC4A indoor and outdoor t&f announcer. I'll never forget how thrilling it was for Coach Torpey's men's 4 x 800 to dip under 7:30, and in the process smashing the school record on several occasions. Just a great loss for the IC4A/ECAC families.

Larry Newman
Track Announcer
IC4A Indoor & Outdoor Championships
Sr, New England Correspondent, T&F News, Eastern Track, F.A.S.T., A.T.F.S., NUTS
Submitted 7/2/2011 8:46:53 PM

Name Caitlin Cavagnaro (Vineland, NJ)
Coach, you've inspired so many to be greater than they thought they could be, both in competition and in life. You were taken from us entirely too soon. You are gone, but not forgotten. Your memory lives on forever through your family and those you have coached.

Caitlin Cavagnaro
2004

Mike Smith (Lansdale PA)
Coach Torpey was a demanding, talented coach who put La Salle U. on the map for the consistent quality of its running programs. I always thought his teams deserved a parade every time they won ANOTHER A-10 Championship. More importantly, I've seen his positive impact on many of our students. My prayers go out to his family, especially his children.

Name: Martin Goode (Arbutus, Maryland)
Charles , I'll really miss you. Good times coaching against you in HoCo and training with you in '91-92
Submitted 7/2/2011 9:36:11 PM

Name: Melissa Mastrangelo (Philadelphia, Pa)
 It's 65 and sunny!
Submitted 7/2/2011 10:10:03 PM

Name: Margaret Leong (Sayre, PA)
I liked Coach Torpey's style... not a BS-er; he knew his business. He was honest, straightforward, fair & generous. I was humbled & proud he was my daughter's coach... (he's still her mentor: wise & trusted counselor or teacher). It's cool Coach gave the kids their summer training schedule; he's still right here!

Here are a few of his wise words:

"You're running the mile, not going to war." (Coach Torpey, Indoor meet at The Armory, 2010.)

"When you're done running this race, I want you to be happy- if only just for a few minutes." (Coach Torpey, Outdoor Track, A10's, 2011)

All our love & respect, Coach. Thank you for your dedication.
Submitted 7/2/2011 11:07:58 PM

Name: Paula Fennelly (Pottstown, PA)
I feel very fortunate that my son had the privilege of working with Coach Torpey for five years. Coach Torp had a God-given gift for producing winning teams and champion runners. Perhaps more importantly he taught life lessons to his athletes: how to strive for excellence in everything you do and care deeply about one another. He will live on in all of those who loved him.
Submitted 7/3/2011 6:44:36 AM

Name: Brian Gallagher (Erdenheim, PA)
I have been just thinking about what a truly unique figure Coach Torpey is in most our lives. There are not enough words to convey it. For me he was the person who took a 10 year-olds dreams and made them happen, but he became so much more, as if that was not enough. What keeps going through my mind is the look on his face and the embrace that he gave me in comforting me when our daughter Teagan died, that hug spoke volumes to me and will remain forever comforting. It was one time where he communicated everything he needed to without one word. What is amazing to me is that I know I am one of countless people. He used different metaphors in coaching his athletes, the one that was meaningful to those from my era, was the cliff metaphor, "Will you be able to pull up your teammate if they were hanging from a cliff, will you even show up?" We all know, everyone of his athletes, that he would be there for us and pull us up for the rest of our lives. I believe with our memories and experiences with him that he will continue to do so.
Submitted 7/3/2011 7:17:43 AM

Name: Mike DiJulia '02 (Baltimore, MD)
When I chose to go to La Salle, people thought I was nuts. My personality at that age probably was better suited for a nurturing, doting, warm-and-fuzzy sort of coach. But something in my gut made me gravitate towards Torp. Torp had a unique way of relating to all of his athletes, no matter their ability. My years at La Salle, in retrospect, were the most difficult years of my life. Torp was supportive in every aspect of my struggles. When I made a very difficult decision, Torp was there, despite not agreeing with it. He was honest in telling me I'd regret it and I ended up telling him 1 year later that he was right. But that was Torp. He really knew you as an individual; he knew the sport; and he was honest. Torp's passing is a difficult reality to digest and I'm still struggling to find the words to adequately convey my respect and love for Torp. My thoughts are with his family and current athletes during this difficult time.
Submitted 7/3/2011 10:30:00 AM

Name: Tom Dewey (Fordham)
Charlie made sure that the rest of us "were on our game" when we competed against his squad. You knew he would be on his. As a person, he was a lovable "wacko" who certainly made the A-10 meetings interesting. As a matter of fact, I now have to find someone else to sit next to. I (and the team at Fordham) will miss him much.
Submitted 7/3/2011 10:35:52 AM

Name: Kevin Jermyn (Durham, NC)
A great coach and person. Enjoyed the opportunity to get to know and learn from him. My heart is with his family and La Salle program.
Submitted 7/3/2011 10:53:53 AM

Name: Retired Coach Stan Pitts, University of Maryland (Clarksville, VA )
Charles will be remembered for many generations by the way he affected the lives of the athletes and the support people of different universities where he was associated. He also kept me on my toes, for I often said "there is more than one way to skin a cat" and Coach Torpey always found the other way. That was one of the reasons that on first impressions some people misunderstood him. They soon learned that no one had more love and caring for what his athletes were doing than Torp. After they learned that about him they had almost unlimited potential. This is why he could take athletes of various skill levels and turn them into high level athletes and first class human beings. Torp was one who would rather live a shorter life and live it his way, than a long average life in a traditional manner.
Sincerely, Coach Stan Pitts & Janice and the rest of the University of Maryland's Coaching Staff and Athletic Department.
Submitted 7/3/2011 11:13:47 AM

Name: Bill Walton (James Madison University, Harrisonburg, VA)
I appreciated the long discussions we had, as well as his openensss, his honesty and his true understanding of what our sport and life is about. He enjoyed and lived what he did. The sport has lost someone who represents the true essence of a coach with his passing.
Submitted 7/3/2011 11:36:15 AM

Name: Jennifer Quigley Cipollone (Newtown Square, PA)
Torp was the best coach I've had and had the pleasure of knowing. He made me believe I was not just a good runner but a great runner. He has help shape who I am today. I will miss him.
Submitted 7/3/2011 11:58:42 AM

Name: Chris Egger (Wilmington, NC)
It was the fall of 1987 and I stepped foot onto the campus of the University of Maryland with one of the most heralded classes in the country. Quentin Howe (transfer), Ken Gamber (Footlocker All American), Paul Hulme, John Chichester and myself. We were led by returning seniors Mark Coogan (Olympian) and Mike Palmer, that first meet against Brown, Dartmouth, Georgetown, George Mason and others will live in my memory forever. I remember running up one of the big hills on the golf course and this little man chasing me up the hill screaming at me, I was never so scared in my entire life. I became a man that season, not by winning but learning to suffer and the importance of becoming callous. Coach Torpey lives in all of us and I will never forget him, thank you Coach!!
Submitted 7/3/2011 1:41:53 PM

Name: Kevin Quinn/Saint Joseph's University Women's Track
Charles ,
You should be proud that so many loved you so much. You earned the admiration and respect of your athletes, their families and your rivals. God bless your family and God bless you
Submitted 7/3/2011 1:55:33 PM

Name: Sheila Klick (Media, PA)
When no one believed in us, Torp did. Torp showed us how to believe in ourselves, giving us a powerful gift that we will now pass down for generations in Coach Torpey's memory.
Submitted 7/3/2011 2:32:04 PM

Name: Debbie Pavik-Porter (Fredericksburg, VA)
Dear Janice, Our Terps' hearts go out to you. You're in our thoughts and prayers. Suey Torp.
Submitted 7/3/2011 4:10:24 PM

Name: Toniann Razzi Cummins (Deptford, NJ)
My heart is broken from the loss of our amazing coach, mentor, and friend. Through the years, Torp inspired me (and countless others) to believe in myself as much as he believed in me. We have truly accomplished some great things together, certainly more than I ever dreamed possible when I came to La Salle. Thank you Torp for teaching me to reach higher and never settle for anything less than my best.
Submitted 7/3/2011 4:48:50 PM

Name: Mike Trunkes (New Paltz, NY)
Message I will miss you Torp.
Submitted 7/3/2011 5:37:08 PM

Name: Adele Federico Cahall (Silver Spring, MD)
Charles an amazing coach and person....you helped shape my running, career and parts of who I am today. You will be missed dearly....love, peace.
Submitted 7/3/2011 8:03:51 PM

Name: Nick Crits (Ambler, PA)
Coach Torpey was not just my coach, but he also inspired me to do the best I could do academically. He understood my struggles and was a great mentor for me in college. As my coach, he always gave me "constructive criticism-" yelling because he wanted what was best for me. He believed in me throughout my college career, always telling me to be confident, and helping me to become a better runner. I will miss his meetings, advice, and stories. I will be thinking of Coach everytime I run a race.
Submitted 7/3/2011 8:30:37 PM

Name Bob Hamer (Rider Univ.)
The Rider University peogram is saddened by Torp's sudden passing. His teams were always great and his athletes competed so hard every time. He forced all of us to be better and most of the time that was not good enough to beat his teams. You will be missed.
Submitted 7/3/2011 9:32:58 PM

Name: Tom Lannen (Jacksonville, FL)
My heart and prayers go out to Torpey's wife and children. I am very sorry for your loss. Coach Torpey was a great coach, mentor, friend and person. His greatness is not only measured in the PR's of his runners but in the people they all turned out to be. I haven't seen or spoken to Torpey in quite a few years, but I still take him with me where ever I go in life. He will forever be one of the voices in my ear reminding me that the results we achieve are directly proportional to the effort we put forth to attain them. You will be missed by so many Coach. Thank you for all of the time you gave to us.
Submitted 7/3/2011 9:44:00 PM

Name: Mike George (West Chester, PA)
Too many fond memories to mention just one, so I will say this: Torp was a brutally honest man who told you what he thought, which is something that bettered all of us who were lucky enough to compete for him. Torp was an individual who you could go to about anything and he would listen -- he had my trust as a friend and respect as a coach. The lessons and memories will last. I will miss you, Torp.
Submitted 7/3/2011 10:12:14 PM

Name: Kirsten (Kraas) Kellerman (Roeland Park, KS)
So many memories from my four years at La Salle. Torpey was there for me when I was going through some very hard family issues and of course I will never forget all the workouts. Especially the repeat 400's that had all of us hanging on the fence as he laughed and asked us which one was going to throw up first. But the one moment that meant the most to me was in the parking lot after my last meet my senior year. He gave me a hug and told me he was proud of me. That made all fours years of hard work worth it. Thank you for everything Torp!
Submitted 7/3/2011 10:16:13 PM

Name: Larry Sheffield (Los Angeles, CA)
Coach Torpey was a great motivator a fantastic coach and a wonderful human being. I'm very sad to hear of his passing. Best wishes to his family.
Submitted 7/4/2011 1:23:37 AM

Name: Ryan Westman (Somerset, NJ)
Though I didn't run for coach Torpey, I competed against his athletes during my four years of running at Rutgers. I always admired the way he carried himself and prepared his team to compete. He truly was passionate about what he did as a coach, and it showed. I was very lucky to get a chance to know him over the years, and he will be sorely missed.
Submitted 7/4/2011 1:51:16 AM

Name: Patrick Henner ( Georgetown University)
The Georgetown Track family mourns the loss of Charles Torpey. He will be dearly missed but the memory of his passion for the sport, and love of his athletes, will long remain.
Submitted 7/4/2011 5:29:28 AM

Name: Tanya Fisher (State Flanders, NJ)
Our condolences to the Torpey family. As the parent of an incoming freshman, I have limited time with Coach Torpey, but the interactions were heart warming and memorable. We instantly felt he was a wonderful person. We believed he was thoughtful, passionate and had a great sense of humor.
Submitted 7/4/2011 6:24:08 AM

Name: Kelly (Cassidy) Jones (Broomall, PA)
It is so apparent that Coach Torpey had a profound impact and a strong connection with almost every athlete he encountered in his career. With so many past and present athletes to mentor and guide, one may think that it would have been difficult to "stand out" with Coach Torpey. But, in fact, the exact opposite was true. Torp cared deeply about each and every single one of his athletes, whether you were a mediocre runner or an elite runner. He possessed an amazing ability to establish a unique relationship with each of his athletes individually and make you feel very special, which in and of itself was a truly motivating factor. He bolstered your confidence when you needed it, but he also would put you in your place if the situation called for it. He had a great balance with his team. These were the qualities that made you want to be the best, not only for yourself, but for Coach Torpey. And they are just some of the many characteristics of Coach Torpey that made him a tremendous coach and a remarkable person. I am so grateful for all that Coach Torpey did for me in the time I have known him. I have the utmost respect for this man and he will be greatly missed by so many in his professional life, but I'm sure even more so in his personal life. My prayers are with his family during this extremely hard time. RIP Coach Torpey.
Submitted 7/4/2011 7:50:09 AM

Name: Jon Bell (Saint Louis University)
As a young coach trying to make his way in the A-10, I quickly identified Charles as the person I should look up too. He definitely had his own style. The A-10 has become a great running conference, largely due to everyone trying to keep up with Charles! We'll miss him greatly. God bless his family and the La Salle community as well.
Submitted 7/4/2011 8:18:03 AM

Name: Peter T. Farrell (Princeton)
You go through life making many friends. You really only get a few sparring partners. Prize fighters know that good sparring partners are worth their weight in gold. They get them ready to handle the blows in the ring. Charley was that to so many of us; particularly me. Charley probed, prodded and challenged me virtually every time we connected. Coaching is a constant process of rethinking, reevaluating and a whole lot of Monday morning quarterbacking. He never let me get away with anything. Whether it be workouts, race preparation; La Salle vs Princeton 10 years ago; La Salle vs Princeton today or 10 years from now. He stayed on me. He never allowed me to coast or let my mind or peace of mind rest. He challenged me at every turn. He challenged all of us. He'd throw a jab; I'd counter with a hook. He'd lean in with a body blow; we'd clinch and then I would be immediately on guard for the haymaker. Then that gleam of a knowing smile telling me that he could take me down. I will surely miss that contact. Charley, you made me a better coach. Thanks.

Name: Donna Golembeski Winn (Torrington, CT)
I am so sorry to hear about Charley. We go back many years and have so many great childhood memories. His love for sports was evident in those earlier years. He was involved in cross country and track for as long as I can remember. In high school we started the first girls track team and Charley was behind the scenes helping us to accomplish that task. We have always stayed in touch through my brothers and friends. He was so understanding and kind to me when I had lost my oldest child in a car accident. What a loss for your school community and most especially for his family. My heart goes out to everyone.

Name: Frank Costello (Annapolis, MD)
I've know Charles for a long time but we have become good friends over the last 5 years. I have an abundance of respect for him as a coach and a friend. He has had a positive effect on the lives of all his athletes over the years. I would like to extend my sympathy to his family and many friends. Charles you will truly be missed.
Submitted 7/4/2011 11:41:59 AM

Name: Elena (Gomez) Nitecki (Matamoras, PA)
Torp was a very positive influence and taught me some valuable life lessons. He is the reason I moved across the state to attend La Salle. He made the believe that I could do more than I ever thought possible. My thoughts and prayers go out to his family and friends.
Submitted 7/4/2011 11:52:22 AM

Name: Ken Turner (Philadelphia, PA)
Coach Torpey coached me his first year at La Salle we would clash a lot, but after I went on I realized he was just trying to make me better. His relaxed coaching style influenced the way I coach today. I was just talking to him at the Last Chance meet at Swarthmore it was a nice talk about coaching and athletes. He will be missed.
Submitted 7/4/2011 1:21:32 PM

Name: Pat Nash (Media, PA)
Coach Torpey was not only a great coach, but a great guy. I started off my college career at Cornell University before deciding to transfer to La Salle.  Coming to La Salle was an easy transition, Torp made it that way. He may me feel welcome from the start when I showed up to a workout over winter break. From there, I was able to get my life on track with running and academics. Torp was the main force behind helping me with the transition. I owe a lot to Torp, for welcoming me and helping me grow as a person. I had seen him in recent years at Valley Forge park when I would go for runs at lunch. He was just as easy to talk to then as when I first met him, even though we had not talked frequently since I graduated. He was a great man with a passion for winning and life. He gave his all everyday and that is the thing I will remember the most.
Submitted 7/4/2011 2:35:27 PM

Name Bob Gordon
E-mail gordonbob@msn.com
City, State Red Bank, New Jersey 07701
Message Charlie Torpey was a "great coach" but even a "better human being". I first met Charlie when he was coaching at the University of Maryland and had the distance program at a "very high level". He coached many great athletes[ i.e. Coogan, Cullinane, Girard, etc.] but Charlie developed many top athletes at LaSalle including Sean Quigley and others. Charlie loved everyone of "his kids" at LaSalle and know the kids felt the same way! I remember I asked him once what kind of recruiting year he had and he said "i will let you know in 5 years". I am still in shock and reached out to Sean Quigley to see how his was dealing with unfortunate loss of his coach, good friend and mentor and he told me that the support from the LaSalle Family was fantastic in this dark hour! I also loved to visit with Charlie at Penn Relays, NCAA's, USATF's, etc. Charlie you will be dearly missed but never forgotten for all you did for this sport we love! God Bless! Cheers,
Bob Gordon
Submitted 7/4/2011 7:14:56 PM

Name: David Thomas, Philadelphia University
I would like to express our sadness to the La Salle runnning family for the loss of Torp. I admired how dedicated he was to his athletes and would often see him early at Belmont Plateau running a athlele thru a special workout due to a class conflict. Truly dedicated to his team and sport at all times. RIP Torp.
Submitted 7/4/2011 7:27:54 PM

Name ARNOLD SHIFFRIN (BALA CYNWYD, PA)
IT WAS MY GOOD FORTUNE TO KNOW AND RESPECT YOU.REST IN PEACE.
Submitted 7/4/2011 7:55:13 PM

Name: Kelly Mullane (Woburn, MA)
Thank you Coach Torpey for always believing in me and all of my fellow runners. You supported me not only athletically, but emotionally as well throughout my La Salle track & field career. You aided me through the most difficult time in my life and that I will never forget. You represent honesty and greatness and will be remembered in our hearts forever. THANK YOU COACH TORPEY.
Submitted 7/4/2011 9:04:22 PM

Name: Louise Kelley (Potomac, MD)
I echo the sentiment that I've read over and over about Charles. He welcomed you with open arms no matter your ability. He lived by the edict "no excuses", and we trained and raced hard because, well, he expected us to. Thank you, Charles, for being such an influential person in my life and for sharing your passion for our sport. My thoughts and prayers go out to Janice, Christopher, Jenna, and Brian.
Submitted 7/4/2011 10:17:23 PM

Name: Derek Yush (Baton Rouge, LA)
Having just spoken with Coach Torpey a few weeks ago, I am at a loss for words. I would just like to say that Coach Torpey's relentless passion and enthusiasm for his team and his athletes will continue to inspire me. He will be truly missed.
Submitted 7/4/2011 11:45:54 PM

Name: Fran Rizzo (Ardmore , Pa.)
I admired Charles for the job he did at La Salle. His knowledge of the sport was only surpassed but his love for his team and the individuals that he coached. There is a huge whole left in cross country and track in the Philadelphia area. Charles will be missed.
Submitted 7/5/2011 5:18:39 AM

Name Vicki Huber Rudawsky
Coach Torpey always spoke to me, even though I was "the competition" throughout college. He was an amazing person and coach, and will be remembered by many, even those who did not run for him.
Submitted 7/5/2011 6:45:08 AM

Name: Troy Harry (Leesburg, VA)
My deepest sympathy goes out to Janice, Christopher, Brian and Jenna. Your loss cannot be measured. I hope that you are able to find comfort knowing that Coach Torpey was an incredible man that touched and inspired so many lives. Torp has meant so much to me, ever since he coached at Springbrook High School and I was at a rival high school. Torp was helping me, coaching me, guiding me since back then. He has been a tremendous influence on shaping me into the person I am today and I am forever indebted. God bless you, Torp.
Submitted 7/5/2011 7:16:25 AM

Name: Rob Clark (Columbia, MD)
Message Charles Torpey was a key figure during a crucial time in my life. I'll always remember you, Coach! Rest in Peace!

Submitted 7/5/2011 7:30:43 AM

Name: Rashon Howard '10 (Philadelphia, PA)
Aside from his great coaching ability, coach Torpey touched a lot of lives. He probably never even realized how much of a mentor he was to so many people. To Torp, weren't just his athletes, he treated us as if we were his own children. We will all miss you Coach. I love you- Rest In Peace.
Submitted 7/5/2011 8:13:11 AM

Name: Pat Butler (Superior, Colorado)
I met Charles my first day of college at Keene State in 1977. Charles was a wonderful friend. Although I only saw him once in the last decade I tried to keep abreast of his many successes. He will be sorely missed.
Submitted 7/5/2011 9:11:01 AM

Name: Rafiu Bakare (Silver Spring, MD)
Coach Torpey was my first and best track coach. He pulled a shy young man, sorely lacking in the confidence athlete into a confident life-long track enthusiast, coach and mentor. We hadn't spoken in years, but we reconnected when I began coaching, and he was still the same Torpey. God bless him and his family.

Coach Rafiu Bakare
Springbrook HIgh School - Class of 1992
Submitted 7/5/2011 9:32:19 AM

Name: Katie (McCormick) McGuire '95-'99 (Drexel Hill PA)
It's hard to find the words to express how deeply saddened I was to hear of Torp's passing. And even more difficult to find the words to express how much he meant to me and so many others. He was not only a great coach and mentor, but he was a parent as well at our home away from home. His office door was always open if you needed to talk...and there was always an open seat next to him on the bus home from a meet, when you needed some encouragement after a bad race. One specific memory that stands out is the day he and various teammates read aloud the book, "The Precious Present". That day in the office, I was thinking, why is he making us read/listen to this? It seemed so weird at the time...And many years later, when I was going through some very stressful times with my baby boy, the message became clear. And I have been trying to live by this message ever since. It is just one small example of how Torp wanted us to be the best people we could be, not just the best runners. There are many moments I will forever treasure in my life, and my years running for Torp are among the best.
Janice, Christopher, Jenna and Brian, I pray that you will find strength during these most difficult times, may God bless you. May you Rest in Peace, Torp.
Submitted 7/5/2011 10:02:13 AM

Name Ed Roskiewicz (Princeton)
I first remember Charley as a young promising coach at Maryland. I was just breaking in at Penn State and coach Groves once told me, "that guy can coach". Although I didn't know Charley at the time, it bothered me that he got a raw deal at Maryland but I admired how he worked his way back. First going to the high school level and then eventually on to Lasalle were it was fun for me to watch him do great things with kids who were rarely blue chip recruits. He was the kind of guy you cheered for becuase he was never afraid to show emotion and he always produced good teams. I would have liked to have seen him get a big time job because he would have really done well. Still, he did great at Lasalle and that's what I'll remember. We will all miss him. He was funny and intense and passionate about his craft.
Submitted 7/5/2011 10:59:08 AM

Name: Rosalind Taylor Sheppard (Bowie, MD)
Charles Torpey gave new meaning to the words coach, mentor, and friend. As a coach Charles took me to heights that I never thought I would reach. It takes a great coach to find talent in virtually unknown athletes and take them to a high level of competition. As a mentor Charles taught me to believe in myself like no one else ever has. He always exuded a confidence that was contagious. Charles believed in me and always knew the right thing to say to motivate me to achieve more. As a friend Charles was always there to lend an ear, to cheer for me when I was successful, and to provide comfort when I was not. Charles Torpey was and continues to be one of the most inspirational people in my life and I will miss him dearly.
Submitted 7/5/2011 12:43:04 PM

Name Norm Gordon (former George Mason coach)
I first met Charles nearly 30 years ago, when he started coaching at Maryland. One of my college teammates has coached him at Keene and "warned" me that the Terps we in for a big upgrade. Through the years, Charles always exhibited his passion for the sport, his insight into what makes athletes tick, and his ability to relate to other coaches, friend or foe. We commizerated when he was out of college coaching, and, later, when I was, talking about the philosophy and politics of the sport. I am not at all surprixed by the outporing of positive feelings for Charles by former athletes, friends and coaching collegues. Charles typifies the dedication and passion needed to be a successful coach, and he made our world a bit better for knowning him.
Submitted 7/5/2011 12:45:44 PM

Name: Bob Macfarlane (XC Coach St. Bonaventure University)
On behalf of St. Bonaventure University Athletics community, we share in the loss of a great man and coach, I know for certain that we never lose the people we love, even to death. They continue to participate in every act, thought and decision we make. Their love leaves an indelible imprint in our memories. We find comfort in knowing that our lives have been enriched by having shared their love.
Submitted 7/5/2011 1:51:14 PM

Name: Gary L. Frace (Silver Spring, Maryland)
I had the privilege of being an assistant coach during Coach Torpey's years at Springbrook High School. Though he was at our school only a short time he left such a srong impression. He had such a knack for helping kids to believe they could exceed beyond their expectations,then he coached them to towards them. In 1992 he took a handful of guys, convinced them if they committed themselves to each other and followed his direction that they could be champions. We won the Maryland state championship that spring. I will never forget that. I remember after he left Springbrook to go to LaSalle he came back to one of the meets in our county the following spring. I saw him and the first thing he said to me was, "You really miss me". My answer was a "Absolutely". I was the guy who became head coach after him. Talk about a tough act to follow. I never attempted to fill his shoes. I just tried to keep applying the things I had learned from him. And above all else, as he did, keep a sense of humor.
--Gary L. Frace, Head Cross Country Coach, Springbrook High School
Submitted 7/5/2011 2:22:59 PM

Name: Ray Papin
We will never forget all that he has done for our daughter Rachel. As a spectator of many La Salle meets, his teams stood out, not only on the track, but sportsmanship, teamwork, and respect for their coach. Our prayers are with his family.
Submitted 7/5/2011 3:33:42 PM

Name: Orestes Medina (Palisades Park, NJ)
Coach..
Where do i begin...We been through it all; the winnings, the losings, the could of's, and the should of's. You taught me something more then just how to run, how to jump, and how to compete; but most importantly you taught me the responsibilities of becoming a man, and showed me the courage to tackle the challenges that surround us everyday. For that, I thank you. Thank you for everything you've done, and thank you for being sincere. You made everything and everyone around you better. We will miss you terribly!!
Submitted 7/5/2011 3:35:07 PM

Name: Tom Strickland Class 1968 (Collegeville, Pa.)
As a former La Salle athlete I admired what Coach Torpey accomplished as Track coach. His love of the sport was very apparent. On the occasions I had the opportunity to speak with him, he always made me feel comfortable and welcome. He was a great coach and person. He will be missed.
Submitted 7/5/2011 3:43:47 PM

Name: Joe Owens (Dayton, OH)
I am the administrator for T+F at the University of Dayton. I have been to every A-10 XC and Track Championship for the past six years or so. One of the things I always looked forward to was visiting with Coach Torpey. Last winter I stood next to him as Meghan Lutz (La Salle) battled it out in the 5K with one of our runners (Maura Bulgrin.) it was a great race and I loved hearing Charlie talk about it. Charlie loved track and he loved people. He spoke glowingly about his athletes and his family. He was a great man and someone I am sure everyone at LaSalle is just sick about losing. He made people better. He made situations better. His record as a coach is unmatched in the A-10 and approached only rarely in all of XC and Track. I talked to our head men's cross country coach today at length about Charlie. We both had wonderful stories to tell about him. Charlie was the kind of man that touched a lot of people in a lot of positive ways. I am terribly sorry that Charlie's La Salle family and his real family are having to go through all the sorrow that comes from the premature loss of someone so great. I can't imagine how bad this hurts right now. The rest of the A-10 will also miss him. I will miss him. My heart breaks for those of you reading this who loved this wonderful man. I pray that God will comfort you and hold you all particularly close while you deal with this loss. Joe Owens, Associate Director of Athletics, University of Dayton
Submitted 7/5/2011 4:38:33 PM

Name: Lisette Delgado (Philadelphia PA)
I will never forget the FIRST TIME you broke me down. I will never forget how you spoiled us with Central's mats. I will never forget how much you loved us. You may not have always liked us, but you definitely loved us. The same goes vice versa. Thank you for being such a great part of my life. Thank you for giving us the best (and worst) of yourself. You truly gave us your all! With such GREAT accomplishments behind you, RIP Torpey. Love you!
Submitted 7/5/2011 5:25:47 PM

Name: Jim Earley (West Chester, Pa.)
I've had the pleasure of working with Torp and his athletes for almost 15 yrs. He always made me feel welcome in his office and I enjoyed hearing his stories and the conversations between Torp and his athletes. His work ethic and drive were really reflected in his athletes. I have gotten to know many people in the track and field world because of Torp. He took a chance many years ago on me and what I do and gave me the opportunity to work with his program and athletes and I am truly grateful for that and will continue to work with current and former athletes. My fondest memory was last year when his calves were tight and he got on my table for the first time in all the years I've been going to La Salle. It took a while but I finally got them loose! I will miss you, Torp!!
Janice, you and the children are in my thoughts and prayers.
Submitted 7/5/2011 6:59:00 PM

Name: Sean Clark (Glenside, PA)
As someone who transferred from La Salle to another institution, it's bittersweet to reflect on the short time I spend with Coach Torpey. I consider myself absolutely privileged to have spend 2 years with such an awesome coach and person, yet unfortunate for not having 2 more. Torp was a straight-shooter and always treated me with kindness and respect, even after I left La Salle. He gave me opportunities that a scrub on any other team wouldn't have received, and I'm finding it difficult to accurately express how much that meant to me... both then and now. Coach Torpey, thanks for your patience, empathy, and good humor. You had a positive impact on so many people's lives, and we're all the better for it!
Submitted 7/5/2011 10:09:43 PM

Name: Greg Mitchell (Washington DC)
Torp & I became close friends in the 2nd or 3rd grade. We played on the same local community center basketball team. We ran track together & did a lot of distance running in side workouts together. During those runs we had insightful and honest talks about life. Torp & I had no problem discussing our personal insecurities. Torp had great insight into people back then which was an ingredient that help make him be a great coach. A truly honest, thoughtful and wonderful person Torp would not only give you the shirt off of his back but would wash & iron it before hand. I was in DC starting my law practice when Torp was coaching individual kids while working for Nike. I remember going to Georgetown and watching a truly gifted coach in the making. I remember telling Charhlie how lucky the running world would be having him as a coach. Torp obtained his success through hard work & knowing he had found his passion. We tried to get together this spring when my daughter was playing Ultimate Frisbee in the Philly area. I
will always regret that we didn't hook up. One of the facts about Torp that may not be mentioned was how proud he was of his dancing ability. In my minds eye I can see him getting down in Georgetown being super casual about his styling on the floor. Charlie was & always will be good people.. I am sure you are already training runners in heaven. I hope they have dancing. LOL to a TRUE BROTHER, ALREADY DEEPLY MISSED.
Submitted 7/6/2011 12:18:55 AM

Name: Gothard Lane (Grand Lake, CO)
Torpey was one of best coaches that I ever worked with or knew throughout my career in athletics. He had a great love for life and for his athletes. He was the definition of a winner. I am as sad at his passing as I was happy to know him in life.
Submitted 7/6/2011 12:33:44 AM

Name: Jill Hargis (Annapolis, MD)
When Charles started coaching me, we hadn't even met and yet he took the time to help me. During the time he coached me, I discovered what a great coach and great person he is. He helped me to become a better runner than I ever imagined and I like to think he made me a better person too. He obviously was a tremendous influence on so many lives, including mine...and for that I am forever grateful. Even though we were not in touch too often in recent years, I will miss knowing he is there. My thoughts and prayers are with Janice, Christopher, Brian and Jenna...the family he adored.
Submitted 7/6/2011 7:42:54 AM

Name: Robert R Davis (Washington, DC)
It sadden to hear of Thomas' passing. May God keep him in His arms forever.

Robert Davis '60
Submitted 7/6/2011 8:55:20 AM

Name: Bill Goodman (Frederick, Md.)
Charles and I were assistant coaches on Stan Pitts staff in the early 80's. We were both very
hard charging and eager to be successful coaches. I remember how successful he was with the
people he coached and how much they loved him and wanted to run for him. Then I remember how
great a job he was doing at LaSalle with that program. I would see him just about every year
at Penn with his athletes doing a great job as usual. He will be hard to replace and will be
remembered for the great contributions to his family, his school and his athletes.

Bill Goodman
Former Maryland Asst with Charles
Submitted 7/6/2011 9:00:20 AM

Name: Chris Sinclair (Boston, MA)
Torp was, and forever will be, one-of-a-kind. He was a great man, determined and focused. One of my favorite qualities of his was that whether you were the All-American or the last person on the team: he treated you with respect. So long as anyone was willing to put in the effort, he would work with you to constantly improve. This held true for both on and off the track. I've tried to carry that same approach along with many of his metaphors and lessons throughout life. Personally, he was incredible to me. He was a great coach but it is our rapport after I stopped running that is most lasting. He helped me make tough decisions that set me on a wonderful path. He touched thousands of students over the years. I've witnessed him nurture, care and help so many of my teammates from the casual to the most grave situations. We are all lucky for having such an honest and strong individual in our lives that genuinely had our best interests in mind. For that, the experiences he gave me as an athlete, his mentor-ship and friendship, I am grateful. He will never be forgotten.

Coach, I may even consider wearing a Yankees hat just for you.
Submitted 7/6/2011 10:29:53 AM

Name: Laurie Feit-Melnick, Head Women's Coach, URI (Kingston, RI)
On behalf of the entire University of Rhode Island Athletics Community, we send our deepest sympathy and prayers to The Torpey Family and entire La Salle Community. Words cannot express our thoughts and feelings about this sudden loss of a great coach and person.
Submitted 7/6/2011 10:47:41 AM

Name: Tom Winkert (Potomac, MD)
Although I was at the back of the pack on the Maryland team, he called me “Speedy” so many times I think that it started to actually make me run faster. He made the track time trials for the “scrubs” on the team, who didn’t get to run in many races, feel like the national championships, announcing the current track, American and world records before hand and made a big deal when we had a PR. He let Troy and I crash the Adidas camp in CT and hang out with current and former world class runners and told me his hometown stories. I’ll miss that enthusiasm and humor the most, both from those years and in later years too (helping me qualify for the Boston marathon).
Submitted 7/6/2011 1:18:30 PM

Name: Linda Previs D'Agostino (South Newfane, VT)
I know this is supposed to be a site to remember "Coach" Torpey but I met Charlie in our Junior year at New Milford High School in New Milford, CT, during homeroom. Obviously he wasn't a coach back then but he was a good person. His friendliness & joking around made it more comfortable for "the new girl in school". I was impressed by his dedication to his running and the Cross Country Team, even then. He was "only" the second star of the team but a "star", none the less. He didn't always get the recognition he deserved but I had a feeling that he had a bright future ahead of him. I was so glad to find I was right, with the great success he achieved in his personal & professional life. I only recently caught up with Charlie again, after all these years, when we became friends on Facebook. I'm only sorry we didn't have the time to reminisce as much as we could have. My thoughts and prayers go out to his family and friends. I realize how painful such a sudden loss can be. I only hope you can find solace in the fact that a man who touched as many lives in such a positive way, as Charlie has, will never really be gone. He will live on forever in all those he loved & loved him, who were lucky enough to call him "friend", and the multitude of people he inspired during in his lifetime. I'm only one of the so many who will miss you, Charlie. I hope you'll be happy in your special place in Heaven teaching the Angels what running is really all about...
Submitted 7/6/2011 4:03:38 PM

Name: Erin Finucane (Washington, DC)
Torp was a tremendous coach-- intensely devoted to his athletes, always pushing us to be better. Before I came to La Salle, people explained his somewhat controversial reputation: "He's like Bobby Kersee; people at other schools think he's crazy, but his athletes would never compete for anyone but him." When I shared this with him my sophomore year, he said it was one of the best compliments he had ever received. He loved his athletes above all else. Thank you for everything you taught me, Torp, at La Salle and in the years that followed. I will be forever grateful for your tremendous impact on my life. "65 and sunny"... always.
Submitted 7/6/2011 6:33:49 PM

Name: Robert Mullen, former Director of Athletics, La Salle Univ.
Coach Torpey built a championship program at La Salle. He was an athletic director's dream...he did his job with few complaints and a sense of humor. "Torp" was a great coach and a good friend. We kept in touch after I moved on as A.D. at U-Mass Dartmouth. Each time the indoor meet was at the Univ. of Rhode Island, he would phone and I would join him and coach Lawless for dinner. I am grateful that I had the chance to sit down with him one last time at La Salle's 50th Gala. God bless Charles Torpey.
Submitted 7/6/2011 7:15:20 PM

Name: Tim Moore (Gettysburg, PA)
I was shocked when I heard Charles had passed away. I will always remember him as so full of life, and with a mischievous spirit. As a young coach at the University of Maryland, Torp made me feel like I was part of a close knit family. I have many fond memories of our road trips including an outing in Boston’s North End for Italian, and a quick ‘sightseeing tour’ through the Combat Zone with Dennis Ivory and Greg Robertson! His legacy will be the many great athletes he coached, who turned into outstanding human beings. Not many people can make the claim that they left this world a better place. But Coach Torpey could make that statement without hesitation, and that’s a fact of which Janice and the kids can be very proud! God Bless Charles.
Submitted 7/6/2011 7:15:31 PM

Name: Steve Sosnowicz (Schwenksville, PA)
I played CYO basketball with his son, Brian. We didn't have warmup shirts, so he ordered one puma jacket that was so nice. That was one of the last times I saw him. He was just such a nice guy. He will be missed.
Submitted 7/6/2011 8:51:32 PM

Name: Suzanne Girard Eberle (Portland, Oregon)
Charlie--after you, I never ran --and I never will-- for any other coach. You were the one for me. Thank you for being in my life. And to Janice, thank you for sharing Charlie with us for all these years.
Submitted 7/7/2011 1:50:58 AM

Name: Jamie Keenan (Fairfax, Virginia)
The coach of mens' and womens' cross country and track teams...you did so much more than directing workouts and instructing athletes on form. Coach Torpey, a mentor, disciplinarian, mediator, psycologist, financial aid advisor and facilitator, father figure, friend, and coach. You will be missed.
Submitted 7/7/2011 9:56:48 AM

Name: Richard Elmore (Spokane, Washington)
Torp: God speed. I will cherish all the time we spent together the last 20 years. You are an awesome coach, mentor and friend.

Submitted 7/7/2011 10:37:15 AM

Name: PJ Gallagher (Philadelphia, PA)
Coach Torpey represents to me what is best in all of us. I came out of La Salle University inspired by the mission of the school to educate and inspire those students with the greatest needs. Coach Torpey was an exemplar of just that. My friends, teammates and family are all saddened by the news of Coach Torpey's passing. What I hope comes out of this tragedy is a greater sense of the La Salle mission. My memories of Coach Torpey will be relived every time I meet my teammates on the track, the roads and trails. I am inspired by all of the La Salle Alum that are trying to pass on Coach Torpey’s legacy as coaches and teachers. I cannot go to a track meet without bumping into many La Salle Track Alum who are coaching and teaching. We populate the ranks of some of the best running programs in the country, to some of the top area high school programs, we inspire our neighbors to run, and assist training teams at the local running stores. Torpey was an exemplar of the La Salle mission and what he has meant and still means to the running community will live on in all of us every time we cheer for, inspire, celebrate and console our runners. Coach, you can put that chip on your shoulder away, what you have accomplished is far beyond any award to be won.
Submitted 7/7/2011 1:27:14 PM

Name: Johanna Grochowalski Thorpe (Houston, TX)
While I can't think of any word besides "terrible" to describe Charles Torpey’s sudden passing, it's been nice to read so many heartfelt messages about how his work/ passion in life has touched so many people . The truth is that I don’t think I’ve ever come across anyone who loved so completely what he did on a daily basis. At the risk of sounding indulgent, I’d like to share with you my favorite Torp memory. It occurred during the fall of 1994 while I was a freshman on La Salle’s cross country team. The women’s team was a work in process to put it kindly. By the end of that season we were left with 4 freshman and 1 sophomore after 2 of our more senior athletes became injured. At a big meet in Boston at Franklin Park, out of 30 teams, we came in last place. Yup, last! Fast forward three years later at Penn Relays at the Championship of America 4X1500 race. Three of those same five women went on to run neck and neck with the likes of Stanford’s and Villanova’s “A” teams. Of those 5 women, one became an All American, the rest became all conference runners as well as school record holders. Again, this is in just three years time! What a truly remarkable coaching accomplishment, no one else could have created such a turnaround. I want to close by thanking Torp for giving me the gift of success as an athlete. I hold that gift in a special place in my heart to this day. I want to also thank Janice and her family for sharing Torp with us throughout the years. It wasn’t until I became a wife and mother myself that I recognized what a sacrifice it must have been to allow him to spend so much time with all of us. My thoughts and prayers go out to everyone this weekend, I wish so very much I could be there.
Submitted 7/7/2011 1:58:04 PM

Name: Julie Weiss (Philadelphia, PA)
When you meet Torpey, no matter how your paths cross, no matter how long or short of a time you spend with him, no matter what he says or doesn't say, he affects you.......he affects you for the better. I am unbelievably shocked and saddened that he is gone. He will always be a source of motivation and a voice of reason. Thank you Torp. May we all strive to live up to your level excellence.
Submitted 7/7/2011 2:14:12 PM

Name: Kathleen McNally (Keeau, Hawaii)
The world of intercollegiate will miss Charles Torpey. He truly represented the best in coaching and inspiration. Our sympathy and prayer go with his family.
Submittted  7/10/2011 2:49:19 AM

Name: Lori Watson Hageman (Charlotte, NC)
Charles was one of the most influential people in my life. He took a chance on me ..a 19yr old transfer from Penn State recovering from illness And he's been in my life ever since. He coached me as a middle aged Mom within 49 seconds of the Olympic marathon trials standard. I would give anything to have even 49 seconds more with you Charles.
Submitted 7/10/2011 8:28:58 AM

Name: Tony Giammarco (Horsham, PA)
I will miss Torp very much. I was fortunate enough to speak with him in late May at the PIAA District 1 championship ... we spoke for over an hour about the past, present, and future. Thank you Torp for helping me mature as an student, athlete, and man.
Submitted  7/10/2011 12:48:24 PM

Name: Jeannine Cridge Calhoun (Stockton, NJ) La Salle WSOC Coach 1998-02
To know Charles was to appreciate him and to want to know him better. I truly regret never conveying to Torpey just how much I admired him and not staying in touch. His runners respected him in a way I have never seen athletes in any sport respect their coach. But he didn't just help out his own athletes - when I coached the soccer team at La Salle, he invited my players to train with him and his teams in the spring to improve their running form / gain endurance. How nice was that? Torpey was always there to tell me a funny story or recite his latest rant to his athletes or he'd just rant in general and I'd pick up a nugget here and there. My most vivid memory of him was this: We struggled with wins early on in my coaching career at La Salle and when we won games against mediocre teams, he would smile and say something like, "they weren't that good were they?" Always motivating, Torp would not let me be satisfied with just any win. I will never forget his watchful eye when we beat Villanova at McCarthy Stadium for the first time ever in our program's history.... After staying thru the end of the game, he waited until I came across the field afterwards and with his deadpan style, he said... "Big win coach" Then a pause... "Congratulations," then cracked a smile and widened his big blue eyes. At that moment, I remember feeling like he was my coach, not my colleague - he just made me want to be better. I am truly blessed to have known him and I continue to be inspired by all the great Torpey memories. Prayers to his family and his enormous circle of friends and athletes.
Submitted  7/10/2011 10:13:11 PM