Basketball fans in the Bronx are mourning the untimely losses of two local coaches.
Tony Irulli, the former JV basketball coach at St. Raymond High School, passed away at the age of 38 after losing his battle with Multiple Sclerosis. Irulli, a former star shortstop and all-city athlete, had his number retired at an October ceremony.
A benefit dinner was held for Irulli's family a few weeks ago to offset costs for his medical treatments. Irulli was only a few days short of his 39th birthday when he passed away.
A beloved local college coach has also passed away. Former Maritime basketball coach Howie Frajberg, 51, died Saturday from kidney and liver failure.
Frajberg coached Maritime's basketball team between 1996 and 2002. He is the last coach to win a basketball championship at Maritime, leading his team to an Independent Athletic Conference championship during his tenure.