HAMBURG, N.Y. — The Hilbert College Athletics Department is saddened to share the news of the passing of former Head Men's and Women's Cross Country Coach, Eric "Geoff" Brunger, who died on May 26, 2025.
Coach Brunger brought passion, dedication, and integrity to the Hawks' cross country programs during his tenure from 2011 to 2016, following his retirement from a distinguished 39-year career as a history and global studies teacher and high school coach in the Ken-Ton Public Schools.
Under his leadership, Hilbert's cross country teams — competing in the Allegheny Mountain Collegiate Conference (AMCC) — were transformed into consistently competitive squads. Brunger was known for recruiting true cross country athletes and instilling in them a strong work ethic and a team-first mentality.
The women's team thrived under his guidance, making remarkable strides in just a few short seasons. By 2014, in only his third year, the Hawks shaved over 100 points from their AMCC Championship 6K score, setting a new program benchmark with 123 points. That same season, standout runner Kylie Reinholz became the first AMCC Champion in Hilbert College history—across all sports—and went on to become a four-time all-conference performer under Brunger's mentorship.
In 2015, the men's team made history of its own by becoming the first Hilbert squad to break the 200-point barrier at the AMCC Championship 8K meet. Brunger concluded his coaching career by passing along the most accomplished team to his successor. In 2017, that group achieved a program-best third-place finish with a record-setting 99-point score.
A Celebration of Life for Geoff Brunger will be held at Kenmore United Methodist Church, 32 Landers Rd., Kenmore, on Saturday, June 21 at 10:00 AM. A coffee and cookies reception will follow the service.
In lieu of flowers, the Brunger family and the Ken-Ton community invite memorial contributions to the Geoff Brunger Memorial Scholarship Fund. Those wishing to donate may contact gbrungerscholarshipfund@gmail.com for more information.
Condolences may be shared online at www.GinnaneFuneralHome.com.
