Early Life and Education of Tony La Russa: A Complete Timeline

By Popular Timelines Editorial Team · Updated: March 30, 2025

Discover the defining moments in the early life of Tony La Russa. From birth to education, explore key events.

Tony La Russa is a highly accomplished American former MLB manager and player. Over a 33-year managerial career, he led the St. Louis Cardinals, Oakland Athletics, and Chicago White Sox. La Russa secured three World Series titles, six league championships, and 13 division titles. With 2,884 wins, he ranks second in all-time managerial wins, trailing only Connie Mack. His career spanned from 1963 to 2022.

Sections (5)

Full Timeline Early Life & Education Career & Achievements Success & Recognition Challenges & Struggles

October 4, 1944: Tony La Russa Born

On October 4, 1944, Anthony La Russa Jr. was born. He is an American former professional baseball player, coach, and manager.

June 1962: Signed by Kansas City Athletics

In June 1962, after graduating from Jefferson High School, Tony La Russa was signed by the Kansas City Athletics as a middle infielder, with a clause for college education.

1969: La Russa graduates from University of South Florida

In 1969, Tony La Russa graduated from the University of South Florida with a Bachelor of Arts in industrial management.

1969: Graduated from the University of South Florida

In 1969, Tony La Russa graduated from the University of South Florida with a degree in Industrial Management.

1973: La Russa divorces Luzette Sarcone

In 1973, Tony La Russa and Luzette Sarcone divorced, with Sarcone receiving full custody of their daughters. La Russa then married Elaine Coker shortly after his divorce from Sarcone became official.

1978: Earned Juris Doctor Degree

In 1978, Tony La Russa earned a Juris Doctor (J.D.) degree from Florida State University College of Law.

1978: La Russa graduates from Florida State University College of Law

In 1978, Tony La Russa graduated from the Florida State University College of Law with a Juris Doctor degree.

1980: La Russa appears on To Tell The Truth

In 1980, Tony La Russa appeared as a contestant on the game show To Tell The Truth, and helped fool the celebrity panel.

2007: Hornsby plays "Hooray For Tony" at concert

In 2007, during a concert in San Francisco on Tony La Russa's birthday, Bruce Hornsby played a comedic song he named "Hooray For Tony," a version of La Russa's favorite Hornsby song, "Hooray For Tom."

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June 5, 2010: La Russas appear in Housecat Housecall episode

Starting on June 5, 2010, Tony La Russa and his family made an appearance in an episode of Housecat Housecall, a reality show on Animal Planet presented by Purina Cat Chow, during the show's third season.

August 28, 2010: La Russa attends Glenn Beck's Restoring Honor rally

On August 28, 2010, Tony La Russa and Albert Pujols attended Glenn Beck's "Restoring Honor" rally in Washington, D.C., after being told it was not political.