Southern alumnus Raymond Reid, ’84, appeared on News 8 this week to reflect on the lasting legacy of Coach Armand “Bob” Dikranian, the founding architect of the men’s soccer program at Southern Connecticut State University (SCSU). The segment aired ahead of a major celebration honoring Dikranian’s profound impact on the sport in Connecticut and beyond.
“He put players first,” Reid emphasized. “He had an attention to detail and a way of challenging you that made you better every single day.” Reid, who played for and coached under Dikranian, added, “I had 17 years as a player and coach, and I had access to the Leonardo da Vinci of college soccer. It was like getting my Ph.D. in coaching from him.”
Dikranian launched the men’s soccer program at SCSU in 1966 and, over 21 seasons, led the Owls to 14 NCAA tournament appearances, including six straight semifinal runs and the program’s first-ever national title in 1987. He amassed a remarkable 227-94-21 record and was twice named NCAA Division II National Coach of the Year. His coaching tree extends across the country, with former players and assistants now leading programs at all levels.
“Years ago, winning championships, it seemed like the greatest thing that happened,” said Dikranian, who splits his time between Connecticut and Florida. “But what really hit home, when I went back to a Hall of Fame dinner when we honored the first championship team, I saw the young men that played for us doing so well, individuals from all places, functioning so well. That was most rewarding.”
Southern will honor Dikranian with a formal celebration on Wednesday, May 21, 2025, at 5:30 p.m. at Aria Banquet Hall in Prospect, Conn. The event, featuring a sit-down dinner and reflections from former players, colleagues, and friends, will benefit the Armand Dikranian Fund, which supports the men’s soccer program at Southern. To register, click here.
Related Coverage:
Read more in the Hartford Courant: “CT Soccer Icon to Be Celebrated” by Dom Amore
