Fundraiser helps coach pay medical bills

Legendary Ag Coach Fulton Pizzini had an overflow crowd at a fundraiser Saturday, July 17, at the Bandera Gun Club, 809 FM 1077, from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Coach Pizzini has been at BISD for nearly 20 years and planned to return for the 2021-22 school year.

“On May 22 this year, I learned I have cancer and that pushed me to retire. I love working with the kids and would have been at work if not this cancer thing happened,” Pizzini said at the event, which drew a large group of supporters, family and friends.

“The fundraiser is helping me offset the medical cost and I so am thankful for all the help I am getting,” the coach said.

Pizzini said his retirement was not expected and another ag coach was also leaving. He said he will offer to help the ag department if needed.

The BBQ and Shoot Fundraiser is a rare mix but worked well. Pizzini was also coach of the BISD shooting team.

The Bulletin interviewed three of the coach’s former students: Rien Mazurek, Reese Mazurek, and James Lewis.

The trio said Pizzini taught them a lot of things including how be a better person and that he is a great role model.