LOWELL, Mass. - The entire UMass Lowell community is mourning the loss of William "Billy" Rizos, who passed away unexpectedly on Tuesday, April 9 at the age of 48. A 2002 graduate of UMass Lowell, a 2010 Hall of Fame inductee and an avid supporter of the entire athletics department, Rizos will be greatly missed.

"Billy was a devoted supporter of River Hawk Athletics," said UMass Lowell Director of Athletics Peter Casey. "Most importantly, he was an unbelievable human being. Anyone who knew Billy understood who he was and what he represented. The entire River Hawk family will deeply miss him. Our thoughts and prayers go out to Billy's children, family and friends during this difficult time."
 
Rizos was a standout on the UMass Lowell football team as a quarterback from 1989-92. During his tenure, he helped guide the team to a four-year record of 31-7-1. In 1991, Rizos led the Chiefs to a benchmark 10-0 record through the regular season, which saw them capture the New England Football Conference (NEFC) Championship and move onto the NCAA Tournament for the first time.
 
He was named to the Associated Press (AP) All-New England Honorable Mention Team, as well as the NEFC Second Team following his junior season, which included a NEFC-best 142 completions. As a senior, he led the Freedom Football Conference (FFC) in passing touchdowns (12).  Rizos set 16 school records during his career and his name remains etched in several places in the record book.
 
However, his contributions to the university did not stop once his playing days were over. Owner of Lowell's Apex Information Security, Rizos was an active member of UMass Lowell's Athletic Hall of Fame Committee and Athletic Advisory Board. He also enjoyed working with his fellow football alums to host reunion events at River Hawk hockey games.
 
Rizos attended several athletic events annually as both a spectator and participant. When his schedule allowed, he also enjoyed traveling to watch the athletic teams compete in post-season play. 
 
Most of all, Rizos will be remembered as a great mentor and friend to many UMass Lowell coaches and administrators.
 
Visitation will be held at the Blake Chelmsford Funeral Home on Friday, April 12 from 4-8 p.m. His funeral service will be held on Saturday, April 13 at 10 a.m. at Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Church in Lowell.