By Heather Raymond
Rocco “Rock” Basacco, had an incredible impact on not only Western Soccer, but on the London Community. His outstanding presence on the soccer field will never be forgotten, nor his legacy as a father, a husband, a high school teacher and a friend to so many.
Basacco spent 21 remarkable years as head coach of Mustangs Soccer. The team won seven provincial titles under his leadership, and would go on to win two national championships, one in 1998, and one is 1999. Rock earned the honour of being named Canada’s Coach of the Year in 1999, and retired from Mustangs soccer in 2016.
Basacco’s former Western University teammate, Mustangs assistant soccer coach and one of a close-knit group of Western soccer alumni — Gary Gorham said Basacco made one of the most significant impacts on Mustangs soccer and was one of the best recruiters he’s ever seen. “Rock’s ability to design a team was unmatched. He made sure to instill life values in the locker room and on the pitch,” said Gorham.
Basacco’s coaching career was preceded by an outstanding playing career, as he played striker for the Mustangs in the 1970s. He was named captain of the team for three years, as well as MVP in 1977. Rock also received All Star honours in 1976 and 1977.
His impact on the London community was significant as he spent 37 years as a high school teacher, helping students reach their potential in the classroom and on the field. He ran soccer clinics in the Ontario Soccer Association for more than 30 years and coached at local and provincial levels from youth to adult and amateur to professional.
“Rock was an incredible man and had an amazing impact on soccer in London. He was ahead of his time and brought a level of professionalism and organization to teams,” says Martin Painter, current head coach of both the men’s and women’s soccer programs at Western University. “He inspired so many young players and coaches.”
Inducted into the W Club Hall of Fame in 2000, Rock Basacco sadly passed away on Christmas Eve, 2021.
“A lot of the players thought of Rock as their second father and in cases, Rock became their father-figure,” comments Gorham. “The players lucky enough to have been coached by Basacco knew they were in a safe environment where they could reach their full potential.”
The passing of Rocco Basacco heavily impacted many. His legacy in both soccer, school and his kind, caring actions will leave a lasting impression that will stay with others for many years to come.