Bernd Dittrich Memorial Award in Football

Bernd Dittrich was a quarterback for the SFU football team. A great athlete and inspiring individual, Bernd was known for his enthusiasm and tremendous work ethic. Sadly, he passed away at the young age of 21 on November 11th, 2009. 

Growing up in Vienna, Bernd fell in love with the sport of American Football, and played for the Vienna Vikings club team, where he was coached by former SFU offensive coordinator, Shawn Olson for five years. He was quickly recruited to play for SFU, joining the football team in August of 2007. He was named starting quarterback in 2008.
 
In his first career start, he led SFU to their first victory in over three years, a 24-10 win over UBC. Following the victory, an emotional Dittrich fought back tears while describing how much the win meant to his teammates and coaching staff.

In 2008, Dittrich led the team to their best record since 2003 (5-3), a fourth-quarter comeback win in the 2008 Shrum Bowl against UBC, and an appearance in the Canada West Hardy Cup final. A shoulder injury in 2009 limited Dittrich to six games this past season.
 
Playing in 24 total games for the SFU football team, Dittrich threw for 2684 yards and 10 touchdowns, while rushing for 763 yards and eight touchdowns.

After Bernd's passing, the SFU Football Alumni Society established a memorial award in his honour. Each year, at least one award valued at $1,000 is granted to a deserving undergraduate student who, like Bernd, demonstrate positive contibutions to the community. Award recipients must also be a member of the SFU Varsity Football Team.

In honour of the 10th anniversary of his passing, please consider making a gift to support exceptional students like Bernd.