Whoa, Nellie...We're Now 1-0 (UUN #3-21)
Dear Johnnie Family —
St. John’s vs Aurora University Rematch: SJU 39-Aurora 33.
As you will see in photos throughout this issue, Johnnies, Bennies, alums, parents, and associated fans were united as one after this first game of the long-awaited football season. This was a magnificent new beginning after the Covid interruptions.
Just check off some of the non-game good things: 1.) a pristine football day, cloudless, mild and not windy; 2.) a colorful, happy and friendly tailgate crowd; 3.) a packed house with an attendance of nearly 8,700 (ka-ching, ka-ching for various SJU budgets); 4.) a full, enthusiastic student section that stayed much that way throughout the game and was able to rush the field in joyous celebration at the dramatic ending; 5.) noisy, involved fans throughout the contest, with few embarrassing vacancies in the reserved seats; 6.) the debut of the new huge video scoreboard with replays; 7.) the absence of ads over the public address system; 8.) no serious injuries for either team; and 9.) a clean, hard-fought, nail-biting game that — for the Johnnies anyway — had an almost miraculous ending. The story of the game can be summed up in one delicious photo:
Here is that most timely tackle for loss and forced fumble of Aurora’s super All-American quarterback Gavin Zimbelman by Johnnie D-lineman #19 Collin Franz with 17 seconds remaining and the ball on the Johnnie 1-yard line. Another D-lineman, Seth Morem, recovered the fumble to seal the unlikely win. Collin and the team snatched an almost sure victory away from their opponents with a soul-crushing, final-play turnover — the first of the day for Aurora — to seal the 39-33 win. See that play here: https://t.co/1iI8TEwDw4 and here it is from another angle: https://twitter.com/d3football/status/1434261434058395651?s=21 For that tackle/strip, a blocked PAT, two other tackles and three quarterback hurries, Collin was named MIAC Defensive Lineman of the Week.
Well, Coach, how did we do? —
From Coach Gary Fasching’s ’81 point-of-view, many questions about the abilities and character of his team were answered during and after the game. Foremost were: Did SJU have a suitable replacement for graduated All-American Jackson Erdmann? Would a mostly new offensive line be able to meet the challenge of Aurora’s veteran team, both in protecting the our quarterback, and opening holes for our two talented running backs, #5 Henry Trost and St. Cloud State transfer #25 Devin Vouk? Can we run and pass in a balanced way? Would our inexperienced new players on both sides of the ball play consistently and pretty much error-free? Will our young secondary be riddled by Zimbelman and his splendid corps of receivers? And can our freshman kicker consistently make extra points, an occasional field goal and suitably long kickoffs?
Senior #5 Henry Trost is off and running for some of his 148
yards through, over and around the Aurora defense.
Senior transfer from St. Cloud Site, #25 Devin Vouk is shown
just after scoring one of our running touchdowns, showing his
speed and power.
Well, as they say, the proof is in the pudding. And what a pudding it was. Yes, sophomore #6 Aaron Syverson at QB starting his first game was simply outstanding: unflappable, steady, accurate and swift when needed; Aaron led the team against Aurora’s offensive superpower and matched him score for score, pretty much pass for pass — Aaron was 20-41 in passing, while Gavin Zimbelman was 23-44. He was assisted admirably with a brand new O-Line that gave him time when needed, while opening passages for our RBs who averaged nearly 7 yards per carry. The Jays ran a balanced offense, just as Gary had indicated he wanted to do; of SJU’s total 520 yards, 281 were by air, and 239 by rushing. Contrast that with Aurora who had 341 yards passing to only 82 yards on the ground, for 423 total.
#6 Aaron Syverson looks like he's been in the Johnnie backfield
for years, but this was his first college start. He made his presence
felt immediately.
Our kicking, which has been not only an embarrassment but a liability in close games in recent years, was impeccable, thanks to frosh Conor Pavelko, who played a mistake-free game: 4 for 4 on extra points; I for I on his 25-yard field goal; and 7 strong kickoffs with a 61 yard average. Our punter, soph. Spencer Ell, did alright as well, with just one punt for 44 yards, while his counterpart at Aurora kicked six with an average of about 36 yards.
One of the biggest unknowns was how would our young team, starting four newbies on the O-Line and ten players making their first collegiate starts on Defense fare against the seasoned (and senior-heavy) Spartans of Aurora? Last spring when Aurora played an abbreviated schedule of three games, they had 22 seniors starting and this season 17 out of the 22 are back to play on, what they hope, is a legitimate run at the NCAA D-III Championship. St. John’s matched up well, and the game could have gone either way…so this loss to a highly-ranked team didn’t hurt them at all. Let’s see how they do against an even higher-ranked North Central (last year’s National Champion with four preseason All-Americans) this Saturday evening at 6 pm. The Spartans have competed very evenly with us our last two games, but maybe they just have our number, so to speak, and may not do so well against the top teams. We’ll see. As for me, I like Aurora, their coach Don Beebe, their wonderful quarterback Gavin Zimbelman, and their impressive skill players, and hope they do very well. There is, of course, a chance we could face them once again in the D-III playoffs.
Gary and the rest of our coaching staff have got to be pleased with their team’s performance last Saturday. What thrills me is that St. John’s, who usually doesn’t play very well the first game out of the chute each year, rose to the occasion and looked to be in mid-season form already. Which means — Wow! — we’re just going to get better with more repetitions and experience. Although it might be a couple games too early to suggest this too loudly, we appear to have another tremendous team a-brewing. Maybe we're worth that #6 in the d3football rankings...how did they know when so many of us didn't? It’s too bad that we have a bye this weekend, but practice will continue while the team works on our own identified weaknesses. It is also regrettable that our next game will be against such low quality competition. I’m not knocking Martin Luther, but they will be so over-matched that I wonder how much real progress can be made to prepare for our next and most likely biggest MIAC challenger, Bethel University.
Although we’re all giving high marks for the play and undying effort made by our squad, I’m sure that Gary and the defense coaches are working to improve coverage by our young secondary, as well as looking to see, offensively, how to remedy the number of dropped passes. Young Aaron, while most often very accurate, threw just one bad interception into coverage, while his other intercept was from a ricocheting pass out of the hands of the Johnnie receiver…a fortunate grab by the Spartan defender. Those interceptions did not change the game’s outcome, and we had no fumbles; the Spartans/Gavin Z. had no interceptions, but they/he had one fumble and it cost them the game.
View the Game Highlights —
What a blessing to find that KSTP-5 News, the ABC affiliate in the Twin Cities, covered the SJU-Aurora game, including a 13-minute recap of the highlights. I’ve watched it a few times, looking for strengths, weaknesses and mistakes from both teams. (Spoiler Alert: There aren’t many weaknesses and errors on the Spartans’ side…except one notable one.) Would that we would be so fortunate to have such coverage by KSTP or over channels offering highlights of upcoming games.)
Many of us are impressed with TE Alex Larson, newbie QB Aaron Syverson as well the new-found power of a 30-pounds heavier RB Henry Trost. The skills of our frosh kicker, Conor Pavelko, are much appreciated. He has the fortunate probability of winning some close games with his gifted foot over the next four seasons. D-Lineman #91 Michael Wozniak looked pretty awesome (as expected) until he banged up his knee and sat out the final quarter or so; he says it's nothing much. #3 WR Ravi Alston also banged up his leg in a minor fashion but should be ready for Bethel.
And here is the link to the GoJohnnies.com account of the game: https://gojohnnies.com/news/2021/9/4/football-johnnies-hold-on-to-win-back-and-forth-battle.aspx
* * * *
The UnCasual Fan —
What a wonderful day for St. Johns, the team, the school, alumni and fans of Johnnie Football.
I could hardly wait to sit down and write my thoughts about the game. Could I feel any better about the day and what I was able to experience Saturday morning and afternoon? The answer was yes – even though I missed the post-game activities at the La. After the game my wife and I headed immediately to Alexandria to meet my son, daughter-in-law and 2 granddaughters at their lake home and take a long cruise around Lake Miltona on a beautiful late summer evening and watch the sunset and have a victory beverage. I am truly blessed.
Saturday morning I was filled with both apprehension and anticipation on the drive up to St. John's. None of us had seen an SJU game in 21 months or so and there were a lot of questions. But we arrived on campus and it was a incredible sunny day with temps in the 70’s, red shirts everywhere you looked and the tailgate area was in mid-season form. I connected with old friends and just for a little while everything was all right again. A great September football game on campus can do that to you.
So what about the game?
What about all those questions that needed to be answered?
My simple assessment is that even though it was only one game there are a lot of things to be positive about and my friend the “Football Whisperer” nailed most of them.
· Our new QB looked experienced even though it was his first game. He made all the throws he needed to make and also showed some running ability (that takes care of question #1)
· Our inexperienced offensive line provided great protection and opened up some running lanes for our RB’s ( that takes care of question #2)
· Our freshman kicker made all his extra points and kicked a field goal as well as putting the ball in the end zone on a couple of kick offs (that takes care of question #3)
· Can we be able to play defense with just a few starters returning. We held a very, very good Aurora team to 33 points and made some key stops and takeaways when needed (that takes care of question #4)
And on top of that there were a few surprises even though we were provided some earlier insight by people in the know.
· It looks like we can punt the ball
· Our tight end looks like a great athlete, and he can catch the ball
· Our running game is fast and powerful
Although the sample size of one game is small it looks like it could be a really fun season.
I got to see a lot of fellow football and SJU brothers I had not connected with in a while. I got to say hello to Father Don and Brother Mark. You could smell the grill and popcorn way before you got to the stadium. It was 70 and sunny and the football was so much fun to watch again.
Yes – another perfect afternoon was dialed up again after being out of our reach for 21 months but did we really expect anything else.
Oh – by the way . We did win 39-33. It came down to an outstanding defensive play by the Johnnies on 4th and goal from the 1. It reminded me of something I heard John Gagliardi say about SJU football: “just ordinary young men, doing ordinary things, extraordinarily well.” I hope I got that right.
It is go great to have SJU football back again. —The Uncasual Fan
(Editor's Note: The UnCasual Fan has been a frequent contributor to the UUN. He was an outstanding player on one of our championship teams and brings some good insider insights to our game reports.)
* * * *
Unofficial Underground News’s College Life Primer —
Start Worrying When...
You consider McDonalds 'real food'.
4:00AM is still early on weekends.
You'd rather clean than study.
Two miles is not too far to walk for a party.
Re-arranging your room is your favorite pastime.
You schedule classes around sleep and TV soaps.
There is less than $4.50 in your bank account at any given time.
The Visa cards are full and the overdraft is up to its limit.
Computer solitaire is more than a game, it’s a way of life.
You get excited when you find change that someone carelessly left in the drinks machine.
* * * *
Overheard at the Reef —
Ricky: You really don't look good.
Bob: I have a cold.
Ricky: My goodness, AND you have a cold too!
* * * *
Want to watch the Aurora-North Central game? —
#21 Aurora plays at #4 North Central at 6 pm, Sat. 9/11; preshow 5pm
Here’s the link:
https://northcentralcardinals.com/watch/?Live=268&type=Live
* * * *
Here’s the skinny on two new players —
Sent by Larry Haeg SJP ’63/SJU ’67: Background story on Aaron Syverson, our starting quarterback:
* * * *
Sent by Bob Neis ’65: This is our kicker, Collin Pavelko. Great kicks are not an accident. Much more than just another football player.
https://www.kohlskicking.com/player-profiles/conor-pavelko
(Editor’s Note: As pleased as we are with young Connor’s debut, Bethel also has a freshman kicker, Jack Hanson, who turned in some very impressive numbers in the Royals’ 59-7 blow-out. The lad went 8 for 8 on extra points and nailed a 46-yard field goal. It will be fun to watch these guys compete throughout their careers at their respective schools.)
* * * *
More Scenes From Stearns County —
The associate pastor at a larger parish in St. Cloud was doing his children's sermon with all the youngsters down in front of the altar to hear the lesson.
He was discussing the story of Jonah. He quoted the scripture passages from Jonah 1 and 2: "And the Lord appointed a great fish to swallow up Jonah; and Jonah was in the belly of the fish three days and three nights. Then Jonah prayed to the Lord his God from the belly of the fish, saying 'I called to the Lord out of my distress and He answered me.' ... and the Lord spoke to the fish, and it vomited out Jonah upon the dry land."
When Fr. Kleinschmidt finished the quotation, he started trying to solicit input from the youngsters to help him complete his mini-sermon. He asked thoughtfully, "What does the fish vomiting Jonah out on dry land indicate to us today?"
One of the youngsters spoke with great enthusiasm for the entire congregation to hear, "It proves that even a fish can't stomach a bad sermon!"
* * * *
* * * *
SJU 2021 Football Schedule
(All games are played on Saturdays, beginning at 1 pm)
Date Opponent Location
Sep. 4 Aurora Collegeville W 39-33
Sep. 11 Bye
Sep. 18 Martin Luther Collegeville
Sep. 25 Bethel Collegeville
Oct. 2 Concordia Moorhead, MN
Oct. 9 Augsburg Collegeville (Homecoming)
Oct. 16 St. Olaf* Collegeville ( Family Weekend)
Oct. 23 Gustavus* St. Peter, MN
Oct. 30 St. Scholastica* Collegeville
Nov. 6 Carleton* Northfield, MN
Nov. 13 MIAC Championship Week TBD
(* With St. John’s, these teams are also part of the MIAC’s new Northwoods Division.)
* * * *
Wick’s Picks For Week One—
For Saturday, September 4
(Winner in bold)
St. Olaf vs Central (Iowa) — 27-46 (My pick: Central, big and that’s what happened…Central is now ranked #16 — so maybe that’s not too bad for the Oles, who knocked Central down two points in the D3 Top 25.)
Concordia vs Valley City St. (ND) — 32-35 (My pick: Cobbers, easily, I thought; that’s not a good early sign for Concordia…or for my picking.)
St. Scholastica vs Sewanee (Tenn.) — No Game (My pick: ??, but maybe Sewanee. I don’t know the reason it was cancelled but probably Covid.)
Gustavus vs Buena Vista (Iowa) — 80-58 (My pick: Gusties, but I sure didn’t envision anything like this; both offenses seem potent but some really lousy defenses…or was this actually a preseason basketball game?)
Augsburg vs Ripon (Wis.) — 38-46 (My pick: I said the Auggies maybe…well maybe not! Work on your defense, boys.)
Bethel vs North Park (Ill.) — 59-7 (My pick: Royals…another name for North Park could be Little Sisters of the Poor.)
Hamline vs Crown (MN) — 54-38. (My pick: Pipers, and that’s what happened…in a rather emphatic fashion.)
Macalester vs Minn.-Morris — 38-32. (My pick: I pulled for UM-Morris mainly because of my long-held disregard for Mac. Looks like a pretty good game, though.)
St. John’s vs Aurora (Ill.) — 39-34. (My pick: Didn’t dare make one…I’m so much of a homer I wanted to say SJU by two TDs, but I had certain doubts if we could beat them with our “new,” untested team.)
(What’s apparent after the first week? Bethel and Gustavus are the teams that will give us the biggest challenges, but we knew that already. Their high scores are attention getting, though. Concordia is usually tough so we have to keep watching for their improvement, and the Gusties’ defense doesn’t match their offensive power. Finally, St. Olaf might make a splash this year, coming in third or fourth in the MIAC, while feasting on the lesser teams; but Hamline looks like they’re not ready to lay down.)
* * * *
Around The MIAC —
2nd Saturday, September 11
UW-Platteville at Bethel — The Royals will go to town on the better-than-average Pioneers. 42-16.
St. Olaf at Luther — These schools have a huge rivalry…in choral music. It won’t carry over so much this Saturday when the Oles wallop the Norse 35-17.
Macalester at Trinity U. (TX) — Sorry, Mac, but it’s a long, long way to go to get shellacked. Hope you fly rather bus there. 52-9.
Wartburg at Gustavus — I’m only tentatively picking the Knights over the Gusties; I’m visioning a close game, one I wouldn’t mind seeing. Wartburg narrowly edges out GAC. 36-30.
Presentation (SD) at Concordia — Oh, dear. This new program will get a rude awakening by the ticked-off Cobbers. Let’s say 66-12.
Nebraska Wesleyan at Augsburg — Oh, these non conference games can get lopsided. Here we have the Prairie Wolves coming to Minneapolis to eat the Auggies’ lunch. 54-23.
Carleton at UM-Morris — This may be one of the Knights' few victories of the season, coming at Morris’ expense. 28-19.
St. John’s — BYE (Darn it. We need a lot more seasoning before we host the likes of Bethel.)
D-I St. Thomas no doubt flies, not buses, to Houghton, MI to play D-II Michigan Tech Univ. in a non-conference tilt. Although the Tommies are picked #8 (out of 11 teams) in their new Pioneer League, I suspect Caruso and Company will do everything they can to show up their hosts and boost their preseason reps in their own league. UST 48-MTU 26.
* *
D3Football Top 25 —
After Week One there are not too many earth-shattering changes in the Top 25 but there has been some movement. While SJU remained at #6, our most competent foe, Aurora, moved up two points to #21…still too low, in my opinion, but then let’s see how they fare against their neighbors #4 North Central (who was #3 initially but didn’t play last week) this Saturday evening. Central (IA), now at #16, dropped two points after beating St. Olaf by 19 points. Bethel, now #17, dropped a point after beating up on North Park 59-7, and UW-Oshkosh dropped two places after also winning. Geez…tough crowd, this Top 25 rating panel.
https://www.d3football.com/top25/2021/week1
* * * *
SJU vs Aurora in Pictures —
This is the 2021 version of the Rats. Believe it or not, these guys
have to audition to make the "squad." Photo compliments of
Harry Burns SJP '74/SJU '78.
At left, Dave “Veek” Verkuilen, long-time Johnnie fan and one
of the originators of the fabled Johnnie Tailgates 20+ years ago,
is shown with Amelia Santaniello and her husband Frank
Vascellaro. Frank and Amelia became the first married couple
to co-anchor a daily news program in the Twin Cities on CBS
affiliate WCCO-TV. For 15 years they have co-anchored the 5,
6 and 10 PM news. They have three children: Sam, a (gasp!)
6’4” Tommie basketball player, and twins Joe and Francesca
(Frankie). Joe is a first-year, 6’2”, 280 offensive lineman for the
Johnnies, while Frankie was an outstanding high school basket-
ball player for Holy Angels who has decided against playing
college ball for the time being.
John Young '83, Assoc. VP-Dev at SJU. is known for two decades
as a purveyor of complimentary Bloody Marys at the home tailgates,
recently acquiredthis trailer for a song from a neighbor, then enlisted
his '82 classmates to subscribe to raise funds for the trailer and colorful
Johnnie decor. John said the next subscription will be to raise funds
to redo the interior. In the meantime it's the classiest vehicle of its ilk
on the lot.
Some teammates from the '76 National Champs enjoyed watch-
ing the Jays take on Aurora. From left are Robert Vorisek '79,
Joe Luby '78 in the chair, John Kessler '79 behind Joe, and
Scott Becker '77. Joe is widely known as one of the best
defensive backs in all of St. John's history.
Here's a Good Family for you: From left in back, Lindsay Novak
Good ’06, Perry Good, Jason’s dad, and Jason Good ‘06. The
Good sisters, Betsy (9) left, Jane (7) right, and their cousin Johnny Engelmann (7) pose happily in front…Johnny, of Rogers, MN, is
neighbor and best friend of Jeremy Hood’s ’04 son, Ryan. Jason
and Jeremy played together on the 2003 National Championship team.
Jason wrote: The girls had a lot of fun. Jane’s best friend and classmate, Ruby Gilbert, was sitting down in the end zone so they went down there for part of the game. We went to Bo Diddley’s after the game with the Gilbert family. Her parents, Bryan '98 and Tracy '97 live in Excelsior not too far from us. Great people. Betsy was asking a lot of questions during the game and was wondering why the crowd was cheering so loud at certain points. I’m hoping to be at the Bethel game on 9/25 with Betsy but I think Jane has soccer that day.
Tight End #83 Alex Larson made a huge smash as a rookie starter against the Spartans. This is one TD he caught in front of deliriously happy red-clad Jays and Bees fans.
The Grand Finale, as joyous players and students mingle on the field after their sudden, last second-win over a stunned Aurora under the new video board. As much as we all enjoy our victory over the talented Spartans, one has to feel for them, both in losing in such a manner and then having to drive all the way back to Chicagoland. We know the feeling; it's happened to us four times against UW-Whitewater. (Photo compliments of Harry Burns.)
Chips off the Ol' Blocks — From left Ron Tomczik '65 stands next to his frosh grandson Andy Quiram '25 , while next to Andy is his roommate, Jack Senden '25, grandson of Jim Senden '64. As it turns out, both Ron and Jim have been friends for years, often celebrating at the La after a Johnnie win, so the coincidence of their grandsons rooming together was great news. Andy's parents are Amy Tomczik Quiram '97 and her husband Justin '97.
* * * *
Philosophy Department Humor —
Jean-Paul Sartre is sitting at a French cafe, revising his draft of Being and Nothingness. He says to the waitress, "I'd like a cup of coffee, please, with no cream."
The waitress replies, "I'm sorry, Monsieur, but we're out of cream. How about with no milk?"
* * * *
Thought For The Day —
Life is not about “or” — it is about “and.”
It is magical and messy. It is heartwarming and heartbreaking.
It is delight and disappointment. Grace and grief.
Exquisite and excruciating, often at the exact same time.
Kristi Nelson
(Editor’s Observation: This “thought” sounds a great deal like how we all felt watching the game last Saturday.)
* * * *
While at Homecoming, stay for the Hall of Honor Banquet —
Honor these past St. John's greats while helping the J Club at the same time
The Hall of Honor Banquet will take place in Guild Hall (a.k.a. Old Gym) and begin with a 5 p.m. social and 5:45 dinner and program. $75 per person through October 3 ($100 per person after) includes dinner and beverages. All proceeds go to the J-Club to support all SJU athletics.
Casual, game day attire encouraged.
Event Details:
Date: Saturday, October 9th
Time: 5 p.m. social hour followed by dinner and program
Location: Guild Hall (a.k.a Old Gym)
Please join us to honor the incredible accomplishments of the 2021 inductees:
1965 SJU Football Team
John Deters ’92 – Swim and Dive
George Durenberger ’28 (posthumous) – SJU Athletic Director
Chuck Froehle ’57 (posthumous) – Football
Jim Gathje ’86 – Cross Country & Track and Field
Vedie Himsl ‘38 (posthumous) – Baseball
Jim Lehman, Sr. ’56 (posthumous) – Football
Terry Leiendecker ’84 – Soccer
Vic Moore ’72 – J-Club Distinguished Service
Joe Mucha ’66 – Basketball
Jeff Norman ’78 – Football
Joe Schoolmeesters ’09 – Golf
Gary Svendsen ’72 – Wrestling
* * * *
The Tommie Recruit —
An St. Thomas D-I football applicant was filling out a scholarship application.
When he came to the question, "Have you ever been arrested?" he wrote, "No."
The next question, intended for people who had answered in the affirmative to the previous question, was "Why?"
Our would-be Tommie answered it anyway: "Never got caught."
* * * *
Jim Sexton ‘81 To Receive Fr. Walter Reger Award —
The 2021 recipient of the Fr. Walter Reger Distinquished Alumnus Award is Jim Sexton, Class of 1981. Jim will be presented the award on September 25, 2021 following the SJU vs. Bethel football game in Collegeville at the Annual Award Banquet.
The Reger Award is the highest honor bestowed by the Alumni Association and recognizes an alumnus for outstanding service to the Saint John’s community in the name of Fr. Walter Reger, OSB (1894-1971) — long-time secretary of the Alumni Association and friend to legions of Johnnies.
Jim has served two terms on the SJU Board of Regents/Trustees, and has dedicated himself to helping recruit future Johnnies from places that were impactful in his life: his hometown of Wayzata, Minn., the greater Chicago area, and the states of Arizona and Texas. He has also played an instrumental role in strengthening the relationship with alumni in The Bahamas, and he currently serves on the SJU Leadership Council.
* * * *
Battle Between the Sexes, Historical Department —
Clementine Churchill, Sir Winston's wife, was talking to a street sweeper for a while. "What did you talk about for so long?" asked Sir Winston.
She smiled, "Many years ago he was madly in love with me."
Churchill smiled ironically, "So you could have been the wife of a street sweeper today. "
′′Oh no, my love," Clementine replied, "If I had married him, he would have been the prime minister today.”
(Compliments of Peg Rice Marrin ’65)
* * * *
Wicker’s Health Rant —
Power Walking: The Whys and Hows of a Life-Changing Exercise Technique
Power walking is an exercise technique that emphasizes speed and arm motion as a means of increasing health benefits.
Done correctly, regular power walking is good for your cardiovascular health, joint health, and emotional well-being.
* * * *
The Four Stages of Life
1) You believe in Santa Claus.
2) You don't believe in Santa Claus.
3) You are Santa Claus.
4) You look like Santa Claus.
* * * *
From Our Readers —
From Dave Wendt ’63, Edina, MN —
Bob, Congratulations on publishing UUN #2-21. I miss the “Jokes Only” version that my late wife Karin used prepare from your UUN editions.
Also, I recently enjoyed dinner at Anton’s Restaurant in Waite Park with Fr. Don Talafous and Fr. Wilfred Theisen. These two senior monks remain true SJU Treasures. — Dave
* * * *
From Duff Krueger, father of Dustin “Dusty” ’18, Lake Elmo, MN —
Thanks for everything you do ...you made me so welcome as a new parent years ago and it isn’t forgotten. — Duff
Duff Krueger (left) ran into me just before
kickoff and took a quick selfie avec moi.
* * * *
From Father Mike Byron ’81, pastor, Pax Christi parish, Eden Prairie, MN —
Hi Rob ~ I join the chorus of the many who are grateful to see the UUN back! Just two things...
First, I recently heard the "world's shortest joke," which I have to imagine you have published here before, but of which I had not previously been aware: "An Irish guy walks past a bar."
Second, for those of us who are a particular age, Aurora IL means exactly one thing: Wayne's World. — Mike
(Editor’s Note: Since Fr. Mike brought it up, here — for your “Aurora” enjoyment — is a 3-1/2 min. iconic clip from Wayne’s World. Don’t say we never do anything here for you, our faithful UUN readers…Party on, Wayne; Party on, Garth):
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=thyJOnasHVE
* * * *
From Larry Schultz ’76, Vadnais Heights, MN —
Something amiss? Some refer to you as Rob. Some, Bob. Are you wanted? Seems there’s an alias in there somewhere. The thirty year-old car and flip phone may also indicate a clandestine existence. I’m from the government and here to help. — Larry
(Editor’s Explanation: The “government” of which Larry speaks is Ramsey County where he is a prosecuting attorney. He calls me Bob and that’s just fine. I first met Larry at a bar in Janesville, WI the evening before a playoff game with UW-Whitewater (which we narrowly lost) where he sampled my Stinger, a nightcap new to him. That has to be nearly 20 years ago. Here’s how to make a Stinger, but note, nobody seems to have white creme de menthe anymore: https://www.allrecipes.com/recipe/222899/stinger-cocktail/ )
Larry has two season’s tickets; one has his name and the
other? Well, it remains open for now, reserved for his
imaginary girlfriend. Harry Burns supplied the photo.
* * * *
From Jon Dold ‘94, Sartell, MN —
Awesome Job!!
(Editor’s Humble Reply: Why, thank you, Jon.)
* * * *
From Tom McKeown SJP ’47/SJU ’51, Mendota Heights, MN —
Rob, good to see you today…..In my 70 plus years at St. John’s football this was one of the best…better than the 27-28 St. Thomas game in ‘49…because we won…two very good football teams. — Tom
* * * *
From John Chromy ’64, Washington, D.C. —
Once more Johnnies/Aurora play a real heart stopper!!!!!
* * * *
From Bob Neis ’65, St. Louis Park, MN —
I have a confession to make: When I sent this to you on August 24th, all I was doing is repeating what the Football Whisperer had told me regarding his comments/evaluation of the listed players. If you look at yesterday’s performance of these players, the Whisperer was quite prophetic:
I attended practice yesterday. Highlights: Scoreboard much bigger than I thought. Offensive players that impressed, #3 Ravi Alston, WR, Senior, Lake Elsinore, CA, patterns and catches, #6 Aaron Syverson,QB, Soph, Minnetonka, he has all the throws and timing outstanding,
#25 Devin Vouk, RB, Senior, St. Cloud State Transfer from Sartell, great visibility and fast through the holes, #83 Alex Larson, TE, Junior, Woodbury, gets open and really big.
(Editor’s Query: And then where, pray tell, was #5 Henry Trost, RB, Senior, on the Whisperer’s list?)
* * * *
From Thom Woodward ’70, Sartell, MN —
The beer tasted better at the La after that big win.
* * * *
From Vic Murphy ’92, St. Paul, MN —
How about Franz blocking the PAT and forcing the fumble at the end...big day for him!!! Yes the kicker is a freshman...that's really good news. His HUDL video shows him kicking a few 40+ yard field goals. If we can get the secondary shored up we are going to be a tough team to beat.
* * * *
From Jim Weiss ’64, Columbia, SC —
So watching a game on line enables one to keep emotions in check and make reasoned decisions. With 2 1/2 minutes left, we’re up by 6, AU has the ball in our territory. We can’t stop them - but they can’t stop us either. Easy defensive call - let ‘em score. At best it’s a tie, at worst we’re down 2. We get the ball back with 2+ minutes left, march down, score, ho hum, game over. See you at the La.
Oh no, not the cardiac kids from the Abbey. Let’s come up with a scenario where we give their All American quarterback the ball with a short field and plenty of clock. BRILLIANT, SJU Coaching staff.
Actually, yeah, it was - brilliant. We did stop them. Way to go Johnnies. Never in doubt. — Jim
* * * *
From Jim Herickhoff ’64, Fort Collins, CO —
Bob, From all of us a long distance away, thank you !!! For the person who had this idea, thank you !!! And finally, thanks for sending the video I really appreciate it. Can this be done for all games, not just a ‘big one’? All the very best — Jim
(Editor’s Note: Jim, a true son of Stearns County who grew up on the farm next to Abbot John Klassen and was an O-lineman of our first National Championship team in 1963, is referring to the video that was linked near the top of this issue. I don’t know how KSTP-TV happened to tape it and then release it, but it was wonderful seeing the highlights again…and again.)
* * * *
From Gary Kordosky ’64, Tucson, AZ —
Thanks Wick!!! The defensive play on the fourth down with 17 seconds left was an incredible play because even if there was no fumble the QB would have been tackled and the game over anyway. The defensive player looked fast for defensive lineman Wow!! — Gary
P.S. - Here's a little something to amuse UUN readers:
* * * *
From Clark Stanton, father of John ’10, San Rafael, CA —
Heck of a win for the Johnnies on Saturday. Here’s a small Johnnie fan in Japan. — Clark
This is Alanah, sweet daughter of John and
his wife Sayuri, who reside in Tokyo. How do
you say "GO JOHNNIES" in Japanese?
* * * *
From Ron Tomczik ’65, Medicine Lake, MN —
Bob, Super weather day and we get the W. Ravi [Alston] told me he will be ok in two weeks. Our 6'7" receiver [Alex Larson] is amazing! Qtbk [Aaron Syverson] —very impressive, both on the field and in person. And he has four years of eligibility! I also thought the O-Line did ok, considering there are four new guys.
Smart move—[Damien} Dumonceaux placing five new 2nd String D-Line guys in the 4th Quarter—when our 1st D-Line was just worn out! We appear to have a real Team! Go Johnnies! — Ron
* * * *
From Sister Katherine Kraft, OSB ’60, St. Benedict’s Monastery —
Dear Bob and Chris, what a game! Can’t remember many, if any games as exciting – “exhilarating and terrible” to watch – a nail-biter, a heart stopper. An almost miraculous ending given the one-yard line stance, multiple downs to score a TD, and how well the Spartans played. Their quarterback and wide receive #14 were stellar. Our new quarterback and kicker did well.
That evening I watched the Notre Dame/Florida State game: 38 to 38 going into overtime. Notre Dame pulled it out with a field goal. Florida State’s kicker missed a field goal attempt. Couldn’t help feeling bad.
for him and Florida State – felt bad for the Spartans on their long bus ride home.
It was a delight to meet the two of you and Jim [Senden ’64]. I’m not used to VIP treatment – grateful to S. Lois for inviting me as her guest. You gave us Lyft and Uber first class service. Thank you! Holding you and your family in prayer. Go, Johnnies! God bless, — S. Katherine
From left, S. Katherine Kraft, Chris Scholl, and S. Lois Wedl
pose in front of Sacred Heart Chapel after returning from the
SJU-Aurora game. Sister Katherine, a retired Theology professor,
really knows her Johnnie football. And when she came out of the stadium and spotted me with the car at the curb, she grinned
happily and jumped up, clicking her heels, so pleased was she
with the sudden victory. Tell me how many 83-year-olds can do that!
* * * *
From John Hicks ’64, , FL —
Rob, Thanks for all your work. I really enjoy your weekly updates. We do not get any Div. III info here in Florida. We will be in the Cities visiting my brother 9/22 - 9/30. Going to the game on 9/25. Hope to see you. — John
* * * *
From Bob Malby ’64, Edina, MN —
Wick, I was laid up with lower back issues, again, so no chance for me to attend the game. I did watch it on streaming. What a game!! The new QB is a player, for sure, as is Henry Trost. I look forward to this week’s issue of the UUN.
I’m hoping to get to the Bethel game. Have talked to Mike Garrity and Mike Healy about joining me for that game. Will see about another game. — Bob
* * * *
From Terry Kotnour ’64, Our Man in New Yawk —
Did you know that you can tune a piano, but you can't tune a fish?
(Editor’s Reply: Yes, but did you know you can lead a horse to water but you can’t lead a horticulture?)
* * * *
From Bob Christensen ’62, Minneapolis, MN —
Wick - another great comeback win Saturday. Proving, I think, that well- coached teams tend to make their own luck!
* * * *
Another Reminder About The Gagliardi Legacy Fund —
Well, people...you saw how investment in Johnnie Football can pay off this past Saturday. We need to build up the Gagliardi Legacy Fund to pay for the needs of the program of which we are so proud in the near future and for years to come. We're hoping that, if you haven't donated yet but intend to, that you'll be so moved to do so posthaste.
Here’s how you can help: If you’d like to make a generous one-time donation, please send a check to St. John’s University in care of St. John’s University, PO Box 7222, Collegeville, MN 56321. Be sure to note in the check memo that your contribution is for the Gagliardi Legacy Fund.
If you would prefer to make your contribution via a credit card, please call 320-492-0851. If you’d rather make a pledge up to five years, you can notify John Young at jyoung@csbsju.edu and request a pledge form be sent to you. Or perhaps you can pick up a form at a home game. Thank you in advance for your serious consideration of this urgent need.
* * * *
FINAL WORD —
Tip Top Shape —
A 60-year-old man went to a doctor for a check-up. The doctor told him, "You're in terrific shape. There's nothing wrong with you. Why, you might live forever; you have the body of a 35-year-old. By the way, how old was your father when he died?"
The 60-year-old responded, "Did I say he was dead?"
The doctor was surprised and asked, "How old is he and is he very active?"
The 60-year-old responded, "Well, he is 82 years old and he still goes skiing three times a season and surfing three times a week during the summer."
The doctor couldn't believe it. So, he asked, "Well, how old was your grandfather when he died?"
The 60-year-old responded again, "Did I say he was dead?"
The doctor was astonished. He said, "You mean to tell me you are 60 years old and both your father and your grandfather are alive? Is your grandfather very active?"
The 60-year-old said, "He goes skiing at least once a season and surfing once a week during the summer. Not only that," said the patient, "my grandfather is 102 years old, and next week he is getting married again."
The doctor said, "At 102-years, why on earth would your grandfather want to get married?"
His patient looked up at the doctor and said, "Did I say he wanted to?"
* * * *
Goodbye for awhile. Have a nice Bye Week. May the thrill of this glorious if unexpected victory stay with you during the bye so you’ll always remember:
GO JOHNNIES ! ! (Think thoughts of gratitude…or something like that.)
* * * *
Sincerely submitted,
R.L.Wicker SJP ’60/SJU ’64, St. Paul, MN
651-699-4697; theowick@aol.com
* * * *