The Valparaiso University Department of Athletics is saddened by the loss of Dr. Bill Steinbrecher, who passed away early this morning, Thursday, Nov. 12, 2026, at the age of 92.
 
A 2005 inductee into the Valpo Athletics Hall of Fame, Steinbrecher served as the Director of Athletics at Valparaiso University from 1979-2004. He shaped the early days of Valpo's Division-I history, taking over shortly after the University transitioned to Division-I athletics in 1976. During his 25-year tenure, the department enjoyed great success in competition, capturing multiple conference championships in men's basketball, women's basketball, football and volleyball as well as league titles in men's soccer, men's tennis and women's tennis. Many of those teams advanced to the NCAA Tournament, highlighted by the men's basketball team's Sweet 16 appearance in 1998.
 
During an on-field presentation as part of this year's Homecoming football game, Steinbrecher learned the news that the home of Valpo Softball will be renamed Bill Steinbrecher Field to recognize his legacy and impact. The field will officially be renamed at a dedication ceremony as part of a home softball game on Saturday, March 27, 2027.
 
"On behalf of our Department of Athletics, I would like to express my deepest condolences to the Steinbrecher family and to all who knew and loved Bill," Director of Athletics and Campus Recreation Laurel Hosmer said. "His leadership and vision played an instrumental role in shaping Valpo Athletics into what it is today. I cherished our many conversations and valued the opportunity to learn from his dignity, character and institutional knowledge. We share in your grief and are committed to supporting the Steinbrecher family during this difficult time."
 
Steinbrecher also emphasized a high level of academic achievement for student-athletes, invested significant effort into the planning and construction of the Athletics-Recreation Center and created Valpo's first athletic donor organization. A Class of 1957 alum, Steinbrecher served the holistic mission of the campus with Valpo roots that go beyond his time leading the athletic department. He was a member of the Valpo faculty from 1959-1970, teaching in the physical education department while serving as wrestling, golf and longtime assistant football coach. Steinbrecher started the wrestling program and eventually shaped the program into a conference champion.
 
"The life and legacy of Bill Steinbrecher is woven into the heart and history of Valparaiso University," President Rev. Brian Konkol said. "His leadership, dedication and unwavering commitment helped to shape Valpo Athletics and generations of students. We give thanks to God for Bill's impact, we will remember him with appreciation and we extend our heartfelt prayers to his loved ones and all who grieve."
 
Steinbrecher was on the graduate faculty at Appalachian State University from Aug 1970 – June 1979.  In addition to teaching, he was active as a youth tennis coach and as a high school football and high school and college wrestling official.
 
As a student, Steinbrecher was a member of the football team from 1953-1956 and participated in track in 1954. He and his wife Helen served as residence hall directors, living in Lembke and Wehrenberg Hall for nine years.
 
Steinbrecher had three sons – Jon, Paul and Carl – and a late daughter, Kathy. Steinbrecher's Valpo legacy extends to his sons, all of whom are Valparaiso University graduates. Jon is the current commissioner of the Mid-American Conference and the Chair of the Valparaiso University Board of Directors. A 1983 Valpo graduate, Jon was a member of the football and tennis programs during his time at Valpo.
 
After his retirement in 2004, Steinbrecher continued to serve as a tremendous ambassador for the Valpo brand. Known for his character, kindness and sportsmanship, Steinbrecher had a presence at numerous Valpo athletic events each year, cheering on his beloved Brown & Gold.
 
A history of athletics success is a core part of the roots of the University. That history at the Division-I level started with Steinbrecher, and decisions he made – including the hiring of Homer Drew as head men's basketball coach – helped the institution expand its national reach through the exposure generated by the 1998 Sweet 16 run.
 
"Dr. Bill Steinbrecher had a wonderful life," Valpo legend Homer Drew said. "He is one of the most honorable, humble men who I ever had a chance to work with. He gave his working life to Valparaiso University. He played football, taught as a professor, and then became athletic director. He was the backbone and foundation of our athletic program for all of us coaches. He was devoted to Valparaiso University and making it a better place. He led us into Division-I, which was a lot of work, and did a good job in that transition period. Bill Steinbrecher was about more than wins and losses. He was dedicated to the development of the student-athletes and making sure they had a good experience at Valparaiso University. I admired how he wanted to touch the lives of all students who came to Valpo. It was truly an honor to work with him through all those years."
 
A visitation will be held on Friday, Nov. 20 from 4-7 p.m. at Immanuel Lutheran Church, Valparaiso, Ind. Funeral services for Dr. Bill Steinbrecher will take place on Saturday, Nov. 21 at 1:30 p.m. at Valparaiso University's Chapel of the Resurrection with burial to follow at Graceland Cemetery. A reception will be held in the Harre Union Building at the conclusion of the burial.