SOUTH HOLLAND, IL – South Suburban College (SSC) proudly acknowledges and congratulates longtime Baseball Coach Steve Ruzich for his selection as a recipient of the inaugural National Junior College Athletic Association (NJCAA) Coaches Legacy Award presented by Nufabrx.

Coach Ruzich is among a distinguished group of nearly 200 legendary coaches who will be honored at a special luncheon on Tuesday, June 17, 2025, in Charlotte, North Carolina. The Coaches Legacy Award recognizes and celebrates the all-time winningest coaches in NJCAA history.

Now in his 39th season at South Suburban College, Coach Ruzich has amassed an astounding 1,345 career wins, qualifying him for this prestigious honor. He reached his 1,300th win milestone during the 2023 season—a testament to his longevity, leadership, and impact on student-athletes. Over his exceptional career, Ruzich has led the Bulldogs to fifteen regional titles, two JUCO World Series appearances, and nine regional runner-up finishes. In 2005, the Bulldogs achieved a program-best 51-11 record under his guidance, setting the school record for both wins and winning percentage (.823).

“This is a well-deserved honor for a coach who has dedicated his life to developing student-athletes and representing South Suburban College with integrity and excellence,” said SSC President Dr. Lynette Stokes. “Coach Ruzich’s legacy goes far beyond the win column—his mentorship and commitment to our college community have left an indelible mark.”

According to the NJCAA’s official release, this marks the first time in the organization’s history that such recognition has been bestowed upon coaches in this manner.

“Being able to recognize our coaches, past and present, is a wonderful thing for the NJCAA, our member institutions, the coaches, and their families,” said Dr. Christopher Parker, NJCAA President and CEO. “We look forward to having many of these coaches come together for us to celebrate their accomplishments and contributions to the NJCAA later this year.”

SSC extends its heartfelt congratulations to Coach Steve Ruzich on this incredible and historic achievement.

For additional information, please contact Devan Martin at dlmartin@ssc.edu. Learn more about South Suburban College by visiting https://www.ssc.edu

PHOTO: South Suburban College Baseball Coach, Steve Ruzich