ORLANDO, Fla (June 26, 2026) – It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of longtime AAU volunteer, board member, and friend Sheldon Staubitz.

Hailing from Illinois, Staubitz played a leading role in the Central District of the AAU, one of the Top 5 districts in the AAU, for more than half a century.

Over the years, he successfully held multiple positions within Central AAU including Registrar, Treasurer, Secretary, Lt. Governor and Governor -- demonstrating adaptability, leadership, and sustained success in each role.

Staubitz also served as a member of the AAU Board of Directors, including as a past AAU National Treasurer and Insurance Chair.

“Sheldon is widely respected for his institutional knowledge,” said Jo Mirza, AAU President and Central AAU Governor. “Few volunteers have served the organization as long or have seen as many eras of AAU governance.”

A graduate of Northwestern Law, he brought that acumen to his role as AAU Insurance Chair. Staubitz was instrumental in the development and implementation of AAU’s risk management program, creating the foundation on which the current AAU is built on today. Similarly, he served as the Director of Insurance for the National Elks Foundation for many years as well.

Staubitz was instrumental in preserving AAU’s role in amateur sports after the passage of the Sports Act of 1978, refocusing AAU’s efforts to grassroots participation opportunities for all athletes, at every skill level.

“He was often viewed as someone who values tradition while also paying close attention to organizational risk and long-term stability,” said Jo Mirza, AAU President. “He was instrumental in bridging the gap between the old and the modern AAU. He will be missed.”

Staubitz exemplified the spirit of true volunteerism in AAU -- by freely and tirelessly giving his time, effort, and expertise whenever needed.

He also founded the IAAU Foundation, a non-profit dedicated to supporting amateur athletics including sponsoring the AAU Sullivan Award given out to the top athlete at the Olympic, Collegiate or similar elite level each year.

Staubitz received the AAU’s Veteran’s Bowl in 2012 for 50+ years of service to the organization and was inducted into the AAU Hall of Fame in 1995.

As we remember Sheldon and how he impacted athletes all across Illinois and the United States, we also honor his spirit of service and dedication. His passing is a loss felt by all in the AAU community.  We hold his family and loved ones in our thoughts during this difficult time.

Final arrangements are pending and will be shared when available.