The Celebration of Armand “Bob” Dikranian
6x National Champions: 1987, 1990, 1992, 1995, 1998, 1999
Join us for a special evening honoring the God Father of Southern Connecticut Soccer, Coach Armand "Bob" Dikranian (#DIK), a mentor, pioneer, and a driving force in our state and beyond.
His commitment and influence have shaped generations of players and coaches, leaving a profound mark on the sport. Let's come together to celebrate his incredible legacy and the impact he's had on the game we love.
All proceeds and donations will go to the Armand Dikranian Fund hosted at Southern Connecticut State University to support the Men’s Soccer program.
Date: Wednesday, May 21, 2025
Time: 5:30 p.m.
Location: Aria Banquet, 45 Murphy Rd, Prospect, CT 06712
About Bob Dikranian
A member of the National Soccer Coaches Association of America's Hall of Fame's Class of 2013, Bob Dikranian founded the Southern Connecticut State men's soccer program in 1966 and in 21 seasons, amassed a 227-94-21 overall record while setting the foundation for the benchmark Division II program in the nation. His teams appeared in 14 NCAA Division II tournaments, including six straight trips to the semifinals (1978-83). He guided the Owls' to their first-ever NCAA championship in 1987 and was a two-time NCAA National Coach of the Year.
Dikranian has been active in coaching since retiring as a head coach. He has served as an assistant coach for the South Florida men's soccer team and the Yale women's soccer team, and was also the Director of Soccer Operations at Yale.
Dikranian has been previously inducted into the SCSU Alumni Sports Hall of Fame, the University of Bridgeport Hall of Fame and was a member of the inaugural class of inductees to the Connecticut Soccer Hall of Fame in 1999.
Venue Highlights
Located at the elegant Villa Rosa, Aria Wedding & Banquet Facility is renowned for its timeless beauty and exceptional service. Now entering its third decade, Aria continues to set the standard for unforgettable events. Consistently rated as a five-star wedding venue by WeddingReports.com, Aria is the perfect setting for celebrations of all kinds.
Menu
Appetizers
Assorted Cheese, Meats, Olives & Salads
Entree
We will be serving a formal sit down dinner
Aria Traditional Salad
Filet Mignon w/ garlic mash potatoes
Asparagus
Desserts
Coffee & Tea
Italian Pastries
Tiramisu
Drinks
Cash bar will be available
Travel Information
Airports
Bradley International Airport (BDL)
Approximately 30 miles from the venue
Tweed New Haven Airport (HVN)
Approximately 35 miles from the venue
Local Hotels
Courtyard by Marriott Waterbury Downtown
Approximately 5 miles from the venue
Holiday Inn Cheshire – Southington by IHG
Approximately 6 miles from the venue