University of Pittsburgh Athletics
Pitt Football Mourns the Passing of John Cenci
1/30/2026 8:45:00 AM | Football
PITTSBURGH—Pitt Football mourns the passing of former Panther captain John Cenci, who died peacefully on Monday, Jan. 19, 2026, at the age of 92.
A 1952 graduate of Schenley High School, Cenci earned a football scholarship to the University of Pittsburgh and went on to serve as a team captain while also balancing his athletic career and education with a commitment to the Army's Reserve Officer Training Corps (ROTC).
Following graduation, Cenci signed as a free agent with the Pittsburgh Steelers and played center for the Black and Gold in 1956 before completing his military service.
Cenci dedicated his life to education as a teacher, coach and guidance counselor. He earned a master's degree in teaching from Pitt and a second master's degree in counseling from Duquesne, ultimately guiding countless students in the Plum School District. In 2004, he was inducted into the Western Chapter of the Pennsylvania Sports Hall of Fame.
Pitt Football extends its deepest condolences to the Cenci family and all who mourn his passing.
