Bio

Robert Zifchak is the father of athletics at Middlesex College. A native of Queens, New York, Zifchak was a notable pioneer who is revered for his commitment and dedication to Middlesex College Athletics. Zifchak worked in the Middlesex Athletic Department as a coach and administrator for 34 years. He was also among the most influential figures in Region 19, serving as the Director of Region 19 for 29 years. Zifchak is considered one of the trailblazers in the world of two-year college athletics. He began his career at Middlesex in 1968 as an adjunct faculty member and Director of Athletics and retired in 2002. Since the 2010-2011 school year, Region 19 has awarded the Robert Zifchak Scholar-Athlete Award to one outstanding student-athlete who meets the strict requirements for recognition.

Upon his arrival at Middlesex, he completed the installation of several women's sports programs at the college. His support for women's athletics pre-dated Title IX, which wasn't passed until 1972. During his tenure at Middlesex, the Colts captured 60 team championships among various programs under his guidance and leadership. Zifchak was the first administrator inducted into the Middlesex College Athletics Hall of Fame in 2022. A 1961 graduate of Queens College, Zifchak also received his MBA from New York University in 1964 and served in the US Army Reserves. He was the track commissioner for the New York City Public School Athletic League for four years as well.