The U of D Jesuit Athletic Hall of Fame was established in 2014 to honor the best athletes that have donned the Maroon and White. In addition to the inductees, the athletic department has the opportunity to add past teams to the Ring of Honor and recognize an individual for distinguished service.
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Past Ring of Honor Teams
1927 Golf Team
1927 State Champions
The names are distant at The High now, but in 1927 William Ferguson ’27, Mancourt “Bud” Cummiskey ’27, Peter Monaghan ’27, and Louis Fisher ’28 represented U of D High in the 1927 Michigan State High School Golf Tournament. While the stories of their historic rounds are mostly lost to the past, their state championship title remains the oldest known team state title in U of D Jesuit History.
What has become almost as much a thing of legend is the story of the trophy the fearsome foursome brought back to Detroit 88 years ago. It seems that at some point their state championship trophy was auctioned off. After the original purchaser passed away, the trophy was eventually returned to U of D for a short period of time until it was, believe it or not, sold again and this time never to be seen again.
1954 Football Team
1954 "Goodfellow" Champions
There have been many great teams in the history of U of D Jesuit High School, but only one of them is known by name. The 1954 Goodfellow Championship Football Team has forever etched their story into the limestone of The High. Led by legendary U of D Jesuit Athletic Hall of Fame Coach Bob Tiernan (Hall of Fame Class of 2014) the Cubs would forever be know as the team to defeat Redford St. Mary’s. At that time, U of D High was the champion of the Metropolitan Public School Athletic League after defeating Detroit Pershing.
The two teams clashed on a Friday night in mid-November in front of a crowd of 33,000 fans at old Briggs Stadium. The Cubs struck first when Bruce Maher took off for a ninety yard touchdown run. The point after was converted by Mike Lodish and the Cubs led 7-0.
The Cubs and Rustics would trade blows throughout the game, but the Cubs would prove to be too powerful. Maher would score again in the second quarter. Later quarterback Thomas McCarthy directed the attack that led to U of D High’s final touchdown when he connected on a seven yard pass to Moe DesRosiers. McCarthy then passed the ball to Bruce Maher for the extra point making the score 20-13 with the Cubs holding the lead at the half.
The third quarter was a total stalemate with neither team scoring. It was not until early in the fourth quarter that the Cubs drove the ball down the field to the Rustic’s 7 yard line. Mike Lodish sent a kick through the uprights for what was thought to be an insurance field goal, but St. Mary’s wasn’t done yet. With time running out, the Rustics moved the ball to the Cub’s 3 yard line with the help of a fifteen yard penalty. St. Mary’s pushed the ball across the goal line for a touchdown and extra point, but it wasn’t enough. The game ended 23-20 with the Cubs being crown champions of the city.
1960 Baseball Team
For all of the baseball that has been played in the 140 year history of U of D Jesuit High School, only one team can claim the title of Detroit Catholic League City Champions. A special group of Cubs made up the team that was coached by Ralph Owen in 1960. This would be the last year that Owen would coach at U of D Jesuit. Immediately following the conclusion of that season, he would leave U of D Jesuit to become the Assistant Director of the Detroit Catholic League working side by side with the legendary Catholic League Director Walt Bazylewicz.
The Cubs made their goal of winning the City League Championship a reality by defeating St. Patrick’s 5-1 in the league semi-final and St. Ladislaus 3-1 in the championship game at the Briggs Stadium. The day of the final, Cub ace pitcher Jim Bobel ’60 took the mound for U of D Jesuit. In the bottom of the first inning the Cubs struck first when Bobel scored off a single from Chris Schearer ’60.
St. Ladislaus rallied to tie the game in the second inning. Bobel’s arm had given the Cubs everything it could, helping them to a league regular season record of 8-2. Owen felt he was forced to change pitchers and handed the ball to Don Barnhorst ’61. Bobel conceded and moved to third base for the remainder of the game. “Barney” as his teammates called him, took over and held the Greyhounds scoreless the rest of the way.
It was John Leffel ’60 who ultimately broke up the tie with a line drive to right field that scored Pat Jones ’60. Later in the same inning, Jim Farrell ’61 scored on a wild pitch giving the Cubs three runs, which is all they would need to secure the League City Championship.
Throughout the season, contributions were made by everyone on the team that was anchored by players including the aforementioned, as well as, Charlie Shewe ’60, Norm Osinski ’62, Jerry Dumon ’60, and Jim Stenger ’60. The 1960 Cubs Baseball Team will always be one for the ages in the history of U of D Jesuit High School.
1993 Track Team
1993 State Champions
The first Saturday in June is track and field championship day in Michigan. In 1993, it was the Cubs’ championship day when they won the MHSAA Class B Track and Field Team Championship in Grand Rapids at historic Houseman Field. A week earlier U of D Jesuit avenged their narrow loss to Catholic Central at the Catholic League Championships, as well as the entire Detroit Public School league, by winning the Operation Friendship Track and Field title. Going into the state championship weekend it appeared U of D would have to find a way to upend defending state champion, Flint Beecher, who had bested the Cubs by a mere two points at the state regional track meet.
The Cubs earned their first points, as William Brooks placed third in the high hurdles with a school record tying time. Next the 4x200 meter relay of William Brooks, Jim Krol, Edzra Gibson, and Chris Polk amazed the crowd with a combination of speed and deft baton exchanges as they set a new state record of 1:28.23 in winning the event.
Chris Polk, arguably the best 400 meter runner in the state, showed why, as he easily won the event. Next William Brooks set a new school record of 38.6 seconds and placed second in the intermediate hurdles.
Despite these record performances, the Cubs still trailed Beecher with only three events left. Chris Polk and Edzra Gibson then turned the tide as they finished first and fourth respectively in the 200 meter dash. Going into the final event, the Cubs held a slim two point lead over Flint Beecher. The 4x400 meter relay team of Edzra Gibson, Kareem Dillard, William Brooks, and Chris Polk shut down Beecher’s last hope when they won the event by over 40 meters. Beecher placed a distant third. When the final scores were tallied, the Cubs had 59 points to Flint Beecher’s 53.
This marked the first state championship for the Cubs in any sport since the 1927 golf team. After being showered with ice water, a wet but elated Coach Jerry Myszkowski ‘67 reviewed the season by saying “During the course of the season we were just missing the winner’s circle. In the last two weeks of the season everything came together and we took home a big prize. Our whole training philosophy is geared for these championship meets. It worked.”
adapted from the 1993 Cub Annual
2001 Soccer Team
2001 State Champions
The 2001 MHSAA State Soccer Championship never saw the U of D Jesuit Cubs coming. The Cubs were predicted to lose practically every game throughout their run to the state championship game. The men who took to the pitch for U of D High were determined not to be denied. In the district quarterfinals, the Cubs won with an overtime goal against Dearborn. In the district final, U of D Jesuit thumped the Shamrocks from Catholic Central. The Cubs would then send Garden City packing in the final game of the regular season, before defeating Ann Arbor Pioneer on Angel’s Night.
The team had achieved several major upset victories throughout the season, including a tremendous win over Rochester Adams High School in the state championship game. The final score was 2-1 in favor of U of D Jesuit. Adams was ranked fourth in the nation at the time. Other major victories included beating Livonia Stevenson, ranked first in the state of Michigan at the time, and a shut-out victory over the Brighton Bulldogs.
The Cubs were led by All-state First Team member and Michigan Mr. Soccer award winner Ryan Alexander. Dan DePaulis merited Second Team All-state honors, while Jacob Zammit and Trevor Lyman both received Third Team All-state recognition. The Cubs finished their magical run with an impressive record of 18-6-2.
Past Hall of Fame Members
2018 Inductees
2016 Inductees
- Ken Prather '51
- Michael Lodish '56
- Jim Bobel '60
- Ron Robinson '75
- Scott Perry '81
- Aaron Conti '05
- Chris Buryta
- Terry Keating '56 (Distinguished Service)
Ken Prather '51
U of D Jesuit put some of the best basketball teams in Detroit on the court during the 1950s. At this time, U of D Jesuit was a member of the Detroit Public School League and thus weekly faced off against some of the best basketball talent and teams in all of Michigan. Early in the decade, players like Kenneth E. Prather, Sr. ’51 played a significant role in establishing the Cubs’ court dominance.
Prather played basketball for four years at U of D Jesuit from 1948-1951. He made the varsity squad during his sophomore year as a Cub. By the time he was a junior, his team would become Detroit City Westside Champions of the Detroit Public School League. That 1950 team made a name for itself by defeating city powerhouses Detroit Mackenzie High School and Detroit Central High School by a slim margin of 32-31 in each game. His senior team posted a 12-2 record with each loss being by two mere points.
His signature shot was a pivot hook with his back to the foul line. The ball would be thrown into the post, followed by a drop step, pivot, and shot. It proved deadly accurate. In Prather’s senior year, his point total was more that double of anyone else on the team for the season. He could take the shot with both the right and left hands. At the end of his Senior year, Prather was named All-City and All-Metropolitan 1st team in basketball.
Upon graduation from U of D Jesuit, Prather would attend the University of Detroit. In 1955, he earned his Bachelor of Philosophy degree. He continued on to law school at U of D and was awarded his law degree in 1959. For more than the 50 years that have followed, Prather has become one of Detroit’s most respected attorneys in the area of marital law, family law, and child custody.
From 1983-2000 Prather taught Family Law as an adjunct Professor of Family Law at the University of Detroit Mercy Law School. During that time, he literally wrote the course textbook on family law. During his career, he has tried a number of significant trials and appellate decisions. Of particular note, in the 1970s, Prather represented upwards of 100 Catholic priests in the Archdiocese of Detroit in negotiating and securing a due process procedure for clergy in the Archdiocese. As a result of his work, an arbitration panel was formed to handle due process concerns of Catholic clergy in the Archdiocese of Detroit.
Aside from his legal practice and teaching, Prather has been a prolific public speaker and writer. His professional awards are numerous and include earning state and national recognition for his work in marital and family law. In 1986, he was appointed to a 18-member task force asked to make recommendations to the Michigan Supreme Court on how Juvenile Courts could improve their service to neglected and abused children and families. He has also been listed as one of the best martial law lawyers in the state of Michigan in every published edition (30 straight times) of Harvard Law’s “Best Lawyers in America”.
Prather is still practicing law. In his free time he has enjoyed reading, and playing tennis and golf. He is a resident of Grosse Pointe, Michigan.
Michael Lodish '56
Dr. Mike Lodish’s ’56 life has been defined by family and fortitude. His earliest formation came from his father who was not only a doctor, but an Olympic-caliber swimmer. Lodish knew he wanted to be a doctor from the time he was nine or ten years old. Then there were the Jesuits and lay teachers at U of D Jesuit who instilled true formation into his youth and laid the foundation for his future success. U of D Jesuit became a part of his extended family. His friends at U of D Jesuit have described him as the ultimate ‘Man for Others’. The bonds he formed with his Cub brothers, both in the classroom and on the playing field, have become the stuff of legend at “The High”.
Lodish attributes the long term survival of these friendships, part of his extended family, as this group's willingness to stay together throughout the years. He can remember sitting with a group of friends at Briggs Stadium as a freshmen, watching another team win the Goodfellow Football City Championship. At that time he vowed, along with his friends to return U of D Jesuit to that game and win the Detroit City Championship. Two years later he made good on that promise. Lodish did not only help his team and legendary U of D Jesuit coach Bob Tiernan return to the Goodfellow game, but he also kicked the game winning field goal in front of 33,000 fans attending the game.
Lodish’s talents were not limited to football while at U of D Jesuit. He was also a standout basketball and baseball player for the Cubs. None of that really mattered, because it was his time playing football at the University of Notre Dame that truly defined him as a scholar-athlete.
A self-described “beast” in those days at all of 220 pounds, Lodish was a scholarship athlete for the Fighting Irish for four years, while starting his journey to medical school. The demands of his course work made it difficult to earn a lot of playing time in the days when college athletes were expected to play on both sides of the ball. Nonetheless, Lodish proved to be a very capable tight end who had the grit needed to block while possessing the hands of surgeon.
His college playing career might best be summed up in two games. The first was the historic game in 1957, when unranked Notre Dame traveled to Norman, Oklahoma and defeated Bud Wilkinson’s Sooner team who had a 47 game winning streak at the time. The 7-0 upset was the first shutout loss for Oklahoma in 123 games. The second game came later against Michigan State University. Lodish describes this as the “game of his life” and it was even more sweet because he played against his old friend Fred Arbanas who chose MSU at the time he chose Notre Dame. His senior season held the promise of playing a major role for the Irish, but the prospect of medical school made football even more challenging and he was bested by another close friend, Pat Heenan, who would eventually go onto play for the Washington Redskins.
With four years of football at Notre Dame in the past, medical school would eventually lead into a career as one of the most respected doctor’s of oncology in the midwest. He made his way from Chicago, to Detroit, to Sloan Kettering in New York. He eventually returned to Detroit as the oncological surgeon at Detroit Osteopathic Hospital. His friends understand the scope of his career and the countless lives he has helped save.
Lodish still talks about his family first. Today, he is married to his wife Judy. He is the father of three; Debbie, Kelly, and Mike. He has seven grandchildren whom he speaks of glowingly. According to Lodish, the family has thrived because they always, “stuck together no matter what”. That was a lesson taught early on during his time at U of D Jesuit.
Jim Bobel '60
Baseball has always held a special place at U of D Jesuit. Many Cub teams have taken to baseball fields around Detroit in the cold and often dreary springs that southeast Michigan tends to produce. Even more players have worn the Cubs’ colors throughout the year, but few of them stand apart in the way Jim Bobel ’60 does among his peers.
While he was a multi-sport athlete, Jim will always be remembered for his leadership on the baseball field. He first made the varsity baseball roster in his sophomore year. By the time he was a Senior, Bobel had become the anchor and captain of what the 1961 Cub Annual referred to at that time as the “finest baseball team in the history of U-D.” As a Catholic League leading pitcher, Bobel’s arm became the support the ’60 Cubs would repeatedly lean upon in tough times and critical games. His efforts helped both the Cubs to an 8-2 record in the Catholic League’s Central Division that fateful season.
The game that ultimately defines Bobel and the ’60 Cubs Baseball team is the 1960 Catholic League Championship. Bobel took the mound in that championship game in the same way he had many times before. He was the team's unquestioned leader and this would be his game to take. The game got off to a sufficient start holding St. Ladislaus scoreless in the first inning. His first big contribution to the game came when he scored the first Cubs’ run of the game. When St. Ladislaus tied the game in the second inning, Head Coach Ralph Owen made the tough call to lift Bobel. The long season had taken its toll. Although Bobel’s arm was a primary reason for the Cub’s being in the Catholic League’s Championship Game, it would not allow him to finish it. He describes that moment as a pivotal memory in his career at U of D Jesuit. The Cubs would eventually win the game. They are, to this date, the only U of D Jesuit Baseball team to have won a Detroit Catholic League Championship.
For all of his talents and effort, he was awarded a baseball scholarship at the University of Michigan where he played for four years. He was part of the Wolverines’ 1962 National Championship team coached by Don Lund. This U of M team was only the the second and last NCAA Baseball Championship in Wolverine history to date. He graduated from the University of Michigan with a degree in Business Administration and Finance.
In 1964, he took a position with Ford Motor Company in their cost analysis department at the Dearborn, Michigan assembly plant where the First Mustang was made the same year. In 1966, he added a Master in Business Administration, also from U of M. Bobel went on to spend most of his career as the chief financial officer of several small businesses. He ultimately became an owning partner of a small engineering company. He helped lead and grow that business into a company with over 100 employees that maintained four offices throughout the midwest.
Bobel retired in the year 2000, but has remained active volunteering his time at the Gleaners Food Bank and with Meal on Wheels. He is married to his wife Darlene. Together they live in Brighton, Michigan. He is the father of four children; James Jr., Jill, Beth, and Erin. He enjoys spending time with his ten grandchildren and playing golf.
Ron Robinson '75
Dedicated, involved, and committed would be three ideal ways to describe Ron Robinson ’75 who was a standout athlete at U of D Jesuit High School in three sports: football, basketball, and track & field. Ron’s contributions to the U of D Jesuit experience can be found in some of the brightest moments for Cub Athletics from 1971-1975.
Ron’s time at U of D Jesuit didn’t feature great football teams. From 1971-1974, he never had the opportunity to play on a football team that posted more than five wins in a season. Nevertheless, Ron played with great energy alongside his U of D Jesuit brothers posting notable wins against St. Martin DePores, Harper Woods Notre Dame, and Brother Rice. His standout efforts on these U of D Jesuit teams garnered notice from the Detroit press and fellow coaches. He was named All-City in football at the end of the 1972, 1973, and 1974 seasons.
His favorite athletic memories come from the gridiron. He vividly recalls catching the game winning touchdown pass from quarterback Bill Ward in a game against Catholic League rival Bishop Borgess. Then there was the 80 yard touchdown run that sealed a victory against Brother Rice at home. He is quick to point out that the score was only possible, “thanks to an incredible block” from Senior Captain Kevin Curley. He also has fond memories of playing football with his younger brother Darryl, who started at quarterback for the Cubs during his senior season.
Outside of football, Ron continued to contribute and excel in a supportive role as athlete on the U of D Jesuit Basketball and Track & Field teams. In 1974 and 1975 he served in the U of D Jesuit Student Senate. Ron was a loyal teammate and friend on the Cubs 1975 Detroit Catholic League Basketball Championship team coached by Dan Hafner. In 1975, he returned to the track team at the team’s request and competed despite dealing with injuries. He did it for the “team’s benefit” according to the 1975 Cub Annual.
By the end of that season, he was a big part of the Cubs’ 880 yard Relay team that won the event at the Catholic League Championship, while setting the meet record. He also individually medaled, taking second place in both the long jump and 100 yard Dash. He did all this while fighting through the pain of a bruised right heel. At graduation he became one of the most well-rounded and respected athletes of his era at U of D Jesuit.
A U of D Jesuit education opened doors for Ron to attend Dartmouth College. In 1980, he earned his Bachelor of Arts in Sociology. He was accepted to the University of Detroit Law School where he completed his law degree. For over three decades he has served the community as an Assistant Attorney General specializing in civil rights, employment, and administrative law. The last 20 of those years he has help the position of Director of the Attorney General’s Detroit Office where he oversees a staff of approximately 80 attorneys and 50 support staff. For almost as long, Ron has also been the Division Chief for the Attorney General's Civil Rights Division.
As a further service to his community he has served as an adjunct professor of law at Michigan State University, sat on the State Bar of Michigan Labor & Law Employment Council, and acted as an Attorney Grievance Commission Panel member.
Ron has remained active in his local Detroit community participating with the Greenacres Citizen Band Patrol. He is married to his wife Leslie and has three children; Jordan, Nicholas, and Cameron.
Scott Perry '81
To understand Scott Perry’s life of accomplishments as an athlete, coach, and NBA executive, you must first understand the family that would form him. Perry grew up as the son of an All-American football player at the University of Michigan who played for the Pittsburgh Steelers and then became the first African-American assistant coach in the NFL in 1957. His mother taught journalism as a Detroit school teacher and would later go back to school to earn her law degree. For Perry, it was basketball and a U of D Jesuit education that would help him find a path in a family full of accomplishment.
As a standout basketball player for the Cubs, Perry would earn All-Catholic, All-Metro Detroit, and All-State Class B honors. During his senior season, U of D Jesuit would win the Detroit Catholic League AA Division Basketball Championship. Some of his fondest memories of his time at U of D Jesuit involve representing U of D Jesuit as the AA Champions in the Detroit Catholic League playoffs. His team was the first to do so for the Cubs in many years. U of D jesuit would eventually face Central Division foe Brother Rice, losing the championship game in overtime.
Perry and the Cubs would go on to finish third in the Detroit City Operation Friendship Championship by defeating Detroit Denby. The Cubs would also win an MHSAA District Championship that year and finish as a Regional Finalist in the state basketball tournament.
Perry was more that just a basketball player. As a scholar-athlete, he was a member of U of D Jesuit’s National Honor Society. For his efforts both inside the classroom and on the basketball court, Perry was awarded a basketball scholarship at the University of Oregon. He would eventually return to Detroit to finish his college playing career at Wayne State University. He was a team captain at Wayne State and All-Conference player. In 1986, his team reached the NCAA Division II Basketball Tournament Elite Eight. Later that year, he would earn his degree in business and marketing.
By 1988, Perry had found a home coaching basketball as an assistant for U of D Mercy in Detroit. He spent 13 years total coaching college basketball, including stints at Cal-Berkley (where he coached Jason Kidd), Michigan (he was instrumental in helping Michigan land consecutive #1 ranked recruiting classes), and Eastern Kentucky where he was the head men's basketball coach for three seasons. He was named one of the nation's top assistant coaches by ESPN in 1994-1995. In June of 2000, Joe Dumars hired him to be front office executive for the Detroit Pistons.
Perry became the Director of Player Personnel for the Pistons. Detroit would go on to play in six straight Eastern Conference Finals during his tenure. The team would make back-to-back NBA finals appearances, and win one NBA World Championship defeating the Los Angeles Lakers in 2004 . He became the Assistant GM/Vice President of Basketball for the Pistons and the Seattle Supersonics (later the Oklahoma City Thunder where he would help draft Kevin Durant). In 2012, he became the Assistant General Manager and Vice President of the Orlando Magic.
Perry has served as a member of the NBA’s Undergraduate Advisory Committee, St. Cecilia’s Athletic Board Chair, and the Orlando Magic Youth Foundation. In his free time he enjoys golf, reading, and is an avid NFL fan. He is married to his wife Kimberly and has one daughter; Chelsea.
Aaron Conti '05
“All-Everything” would be a good way to describe Aaron Conti ’05. His time at U of D Jesuit featured talents and abilities that would propel him to a life that is already full of accomplishments and service. By the time he graduated as a U of D Jesuit Cub, Conti would be one of the most well rounded athletes in school history, using his track abilities to complement his talent on the football field.
Conti was a standout athlete in football and track & field during all four of his years at U of D Jesuit. During his Junior football season in 2003, he led the Cubs in three separate categories in three different phases of the game. In that year, he led the team in total pass receptions on offense, total interceptions on defense, and kick-off returns for touchdowns on special teams. He was also named Special Teams Player of the Year.
Conti recalls that, “Every year football was memorable. There was never a dull week.” He vividly remember being thrust into the quarterback position his senior year after an injury sidelined a teammate. “Scott Merchant had to teach me how to play QB and learn the triple option in one week! I started as QB versus Orchard Lake and Brother Rice. Although we lost both of those games, we shocked our rivals and gave them their money’s worth.”
His most memorable moment from that time was going 6-6 in passing and throwing a touchdown pass to fellow U of D Jesuit Athletic Hall of Famer and current Philadelphia Eagle, Connor Barwin. His senior season featured more of the same. At the end of the 2004 season, Conti had earned Detroit CHSL All-Catholic honors, was awarded the team’s Coaches Award for Senior Leadership, was named to the Detroit News’ Blue Chip Football List, and was ultimately offered a football scholarship to play for the Lakers at Grand Valley State University.
For all of his football accolades, Track & Field is where Conti stood head and shoulders above his peers in both ability and as a leader. His individual accomplishments are many. By the time he graduated from U of D Jesuit, he would hold the school’s 200m record and share the 400m Relay record. He would also be a part of the school’s second fastest 800m Relay team at the time and hold the 3rd fastest individual time in the 100m Dash. At one Catholic League Championship he won what the newspaper referred to as the “track triple crown” winning the 100m, 200m, 400m, and was on the 1600m Relay team. His senior season was cut short due to a quadricep injury that occurred during the Catholic League finals. It looked like the Cubs’ chance at a fourth straight league title was over, but Conti found the strength to run in the final. He ended up taking a third place finish in the 200m and securing the championship for U of D Jesuit.
Conti left U of D Jesuit as an MITCA Indoor All-State runner in 2005. He was named to rack & field All-Catholic teams in 2002, 2003, and 2005, All-Regional teams in 2002, 2003, and 2005. He was a member of Catholic League Championship and MHSAA Regional Championship teams every year from 2002 through 2005.
Post-High school Conti played football at Grand Valley State where aside from academic honors, he was part of two of the Lakers NCAA Division II National Championship teams in 2005 and 2006. He graduated from Grand Valley in 2009 with a degree in Criminal Justice. In 2011, he joined the Massachusetts National Guard. He has been awarded the Army Achievement Medal for Distinguished Volunteer Service, along with several other awards. Since completing officer training, he has been assigned to the 181st Infantry Battalion earning the rank of First Lieutenant. In 2016, he completed his law degree from Florida Coastal School of Law and has been accepted into the Army’s Judge Advocate General Corps. He will transition to active duty in 2017. Conti and his wife Dr. Caitlin M. Reddy D.M.D, CPT US Army currently live in Augusta, Georgia.
Chris Buryta
For over 40 years, Chris Buryta has dedicated his life to teaching math at U of D Jesuit High School and attracting a wide diversity of students to the game of bowling. Bowling had been an activity that Cub students participated in throughout the years, but no one had made it a seriously endeavour until Buryta joined the U of D Jesuit faculty. He has organized and coached intramural and varsity bowling with success from a time before the Michigan High School Athletic Association formally recognized the sport with its own annual tournament. He is still heavily involved in the classroom and the formation of U of D Jesuit's young men. Without question, he is one of the founding fathers of competitive high school bowling in the Detroit Catholic League and the State of Michigan.
He began the U of D Jesuit program as an intramural activity in 1974. He was instrumental in helping the Catholic League formalize a true bowling league at the old Ramona Lanes, formerly located at 6 Mile and Gratiot in Detroit. When the MHSAA formally recognized bowling with post-season tournament play in the 1990s his team immediately won state finalist honors. Second and third place finishes would follow in subsequent years. His teams also won Detroit Catholic League Championships in 2005 and 2006.
In 2013, Buryta turned the reigns of the program he founded, nurtured, and loved to one of his former student-bowlers, Darrin Flowers (also a current teacher at U of D Jesuit). Still caring and involved behind the scenes, Buryta watched and cheered as U of D Jesuit’s bowling team won its first Michigan High School Athletic Association State Division I Bowling Championship in 2014. That title came 40 years after he founded the program.
For his efforts Chris Buryta was inducted into the Michigan High School Bowling Coaches’ Association Hall of Fame in 2014 and the Detroit Catholic League Athletic Hall of Fame in 2016. A true ‘Man for Others’, he represents the very best of U of D Jesuit and Detroit Catholic League Athletics. In following suit with other scholar-athlete awards named to honor those who have left a lasting impact on their sport, in 2016, the Detroit Catholic League Executive Board formally named the CHSL Bowling Scholar-Athlete after him. Each spring, a deserving Catholic League student now receives the “Chris Buryta CHSL Bowling Scholar-Athlete Award” named in his honor.
Chris Buryta is an accomplished member of the U of D Jesuit High School math faculty. In his spare time he is an accomplished accordion player.
Terry Keating '56 (Distinguished Service)
It would be impossible to quantify the number of U of D Jesuit Cubs Terry Keating ’56 has positively impacted in the 60 years since his graduation from “The High”. His Jesuit formation began early in his life. By the time he was ready to leave the halls of U of D Jesuit for the campus of the University of Notre Dame in 1956, it was clear that he was destined to live a life as a ‘Man for Others’.
Terry would spend his youth growing up in the Jesuit corridor of northwest Detroit. This is the area that stretches from the University of Detroit, through Gesu Grade School and Parish, all the way to U of D Jesuit High School. His father traveled a lot as a salesman. While his mother might have been referred to as a typical “stay at home” mom of the time, the family always thought of her as the first lawyer in the family. Her pension to take up noble causes and charity work must have had a profound impact on him.
Like so many of his classmates, Gesu Grade School was his initiation into Jesuit formation. Terry would tell you that he wasn’t very interested in school as a boy. There was a time when his status as a less than highly performing student made graduating from Gesu questionable. There was the fateful moment where potential for tragedy became a triumph. One day, while standing with his bike by a curb outside of the university, an impatient driver caused an accident. The chain effect of cars eventually made its way to the curb where he was standing. While things could have obviously been much worse, the accident and broken leg that came with it is part of what Keating credits as a pivotal moment in his life. Stuck at home, he was able to focus on his studies thanks to the help and inspiration of the famed Mrs. Roy from Gesu. She would visit him and bring studies for him to work on every day.
Keating attended U of D Jesuit High School at the golden era in Cub history. The school was full of young men and athletics were at a high point under the direction of the legendary Bob Tiernan. Classes were difficult, but he managed to survive thanks to the help of his teachers and friends. His athletic involvement at U of D Jesuit was limited. This was a time when names like Maher, Lodish, and DeRosiers roamed the halls. Standing apart from the crowd was not easy in those days. His title of “Mr. Intramural” speaks volumes, but he was the manager of the 1956 football team.
He sent away an application to the University of Notre Dame not thinking he could seriously get into the school, but to his own surprise he was accepted. His parents believed in him so much that they took out a second mortgage on the family home. They even sold the family cottage in Belle River, Canada, much to his siblings dismay. At Notre Dame, Terry did not disappoint. He excelled in the pool halls around South Bend where he really made a name for himself among his classmates and friends. His Jesuit foundation for learning ultimately served him well and he graduated in 1960 with a degree in economics.
Law school followed at the University of Detroit. There was a time he seriously considered parlaying his law degree into a life in politics. There was also the car ride to Lansing, Michigan with a group of friends all preparing to take the state bar exam. On that drive, everyone took bets as to who would be the least likely to pass the bar exam. Terry was elected by the group to be the unfortunate winner of that title. When the dust settled after the exam everyone in the car had failed to pass that attempt, except for Terry.
In his career, Terry has not worked as much as he has served other people. His life as an attorney has focused on areas of estate planning, trusts and nonprofit law. He is one of the most respected attorneys in his field throughout the midwest. He has served as President on the Board of Trustees for the Metropolitan Detroit Board of the American Heart Association and the Cardinal’s Advisory Board of Education for the Archdiocese of Detroit. He has also been involved with the Hundred Club, the Financial and Estate Planning Council of Detroit, Incorporated Society of Irish American Lawyers, Lighthouse of Oakland County Planned Giving Committee, and the Planned Giving Roundtable of Metro Detroit.
His loyalty knows no bounds and he continues to give back to the institutions that believed in him. He was the President of National Alumni Association for the University of Notre Dame. He has served as President of the Detroit Golf Club and the Detroit Athletic Club. At U of D Jesuit, he has served on the Board of Directors and Board of Advisors. He played a large role on each of the last two Presidential search committees at U of D Jesuit. He pioneered the Director of Planned Giving position in the U of D Jesuit Development office. His vision and expertise for estate planning has helped to rebuild the U of D Jesuit School endowment that provides tuition assistance for students. Today, that program is the envy of many schools in Detroit.
For all of the titles, position, and honors Terry has had throughout his career, he would plainly tell you that “the most rewarding work of his career” was the time he spent as the Director of Financial Aid for U of D Jesuit High School. It is his passion and joy to help students receive a U of D Jesuit education. He and his wife Noreen have an endowed family scholarship in their family's name. His involvement at U of D Jesuit over the years has focused on helping students achieve things they did not know was possible, thanks to the same Jesuit education he received 60 years ago. He has provided for the students of U of D Jesuit in numerous ways. Far beyond that, he has been an unabashed and tireless supporter of the formation of young men that takes place at U of D Jesuit High School & Academy.
Terry and Noreen live in Auburn Hills, Michigan. They are long time parishioners at St. Hugo’s Catholic Church. The Keating’s love and generosity has extended to their faith community several times. They have been instrumental at St. Hugo’s in helping to organize support to help resettle refugees from Vietnam and victims of Hurricane Katrina. They have two sons; Patrick ’85 and Kevin.
Terry’s loyalty and ability to overachieve are firmly rooted in Detroit and U of D Jesuit. His gifts, talents, generosity will continue to help generations of Cubs yet to come experience the benefit of a Jesuit education. Terry is and always will be a “Man for Others”.
2015 Inductees
- Carl H. Schmidt, Jr. ’37
- Mike VanAntwerp ’93
- Geoff Pope ’02
- Bruce Maher ’55
- Timothy Sullivan ’66
- James Lilton Bobbitt II ’81
- Walter Jones, Jr. ‘72
- Dan Hoff ’72
- Chuck Gumbel '64 ( Distinguished Service)
Carl H. Schmidt, Jr. ’37
Hometown: Detroit, MI
Carl H. Schmidt, Jr. (Feb. 29, 1920 - January 19, 2015) distinguished himself as a loving husband, devoted father, and successful businessman. He attended U of D High from 1933-37, where he was an honor student and among many other activities played football, hockey and ran track. He was All-City and Co-Captain of the hockey team.
Carl attended the University of Detroit from 1937-42, where he was a class officer and earned a Bachelor’s Degree in Chemical Engineering. During World War II, he enlisted in the U.S. Navy. He was trained and served as an ammunition and chemical warfare officer in the Aleutian Campaign on Attu. Later he would serve in the Western Pacific at Okinawa. On leave during the war, he took his dog for a walk around the block and met the love of his life, Sis Johnson.
In 1954, he started the Carl H. Schmidt Company, a manufacturers’ representative agency for chemical, electrical, and metallurgical product companies, which through his foresight, eventually expanded into the global marketplace representing manufacturers in South Africa, China, Japan, and Korea. Carl also had a lifelong commitment to many local institutions including: U of D Jesuit High School, U of D College, Marygrove College, Duns Scotus, Providence Hospital, and the Boys and Girls Clubs of Southeast Michigan, among others. He held numerous positions and received many awards for his years of service including the U of D Calihan Athletic Leaders Award. Carl served as a trustee of Marygrove College, was also a director of the Northwest Hospital Association, trustee of the Hospital Quadrangle, a member of the board of directors of the Providence Hospital Foundation and served as chairperson of the board from 1988-89.
Carl had a lifelong love of ice hockey. In the early 1970s, after playing pond hockey for years, he formed a U of D Alumni Hockey Team. In 1995, when U of D Jesuit reinstated its hockey team after a 60-year absence, Carl was chosen as an honorary co-captain to take part in the opening face-off. The U of D High Hockey Team has an annual award named in his honor. Carl continued to play hockey until his mid-80s.
Carl was also a member of the Detroit Golf Club, the Detroit Athletic Club, and Bloomfield Hills Country Club. Carl was a member of Gesu, Immaculate Heart of Mary, and St. Fabian parishes. Carl’s entire life was formed by his deep faith. He loved the Jesuits and his Jesuit education. The Jesuit motto, “A man for others,” greatly influenced how he lived his life. He also had a deep devotion to the Holy Family and attended daily Mass. The letters “JMJ” were on his stationery, business cards, office door, and the front license plate of his car.
Though his accomplishments were many, Carl was most proud of his 44-year marriage to his wife, Sis, who passed away in 1991; his three children, Carl ’66 (Susan), Michael ’67 (Suzanne), and Mary Christine Foxworthy (Martin); seven grandchildren, Leslie, Carl (Julie), Elisabeth Sportel (Matt), Caroline, Patrick, Emily, and Gaylyn; three great grandchildren, Jenna, Callie, and Carl. Carl always had a positive outlook, a kind word for everyone, and a great sense of humor.
– Adapted from The Michigan Catholic, February 5, 2015
Mike VanAntwerp ’93
Hometown: Royal Oak, MI
Lacrosse was still a fledgling sport in Michigan when the students at U of D Jesuit High School became one of its earliest adopters. Of the handful of schools that helped build lacrosse into a spring power sport for the MHSAA, U of D Jesuit played a huge role in advancing the game. In the early 1990s, when things really started to take off for the sport, both at U of D Jesuit and in the state of Michigan, Mike VanAntwerp was one of its leading players.
Although he originally played both soccer and lacrosse, it soon became apparent where his passion lied. By the end of his senior season, he would have amassed the following honors: All-State for three straight seasons, 1991 2nd Team All-State, 1992 1st Team All-State, 1993 Team MVP, First Team All-State, All-American and Detroit Free Press Scholar Athlete Honors . He helped lead the 1992 U of D Jesuit Lacrosse Team to an upset of a very talented DeLaSalle squad. This key victory sent the Cubs to the State Semi-Finals and signaled the beginning of U of D Jesuit as a perennial lacrosse power in Michigan.
The 1993 Lacrosse Team only made it back to the state quarterfinals, but might have been his favorite team. “The 1993 team had a special bond and was a great bunch of guys to be with on the field.” VanAntwerp left U of D Jesuit as arguably the best lacrosse player to pick up a stick at The High. While a student at U of D Jesuit, VanAntwerp also participated in Kairos, Quetico trips, Tutoring Club, and was a member of the U of D Jesuit Student Senate.
Upon graduation from U of D Jesuit, Mike attended Michigan State University in East Lansing where he earned his Bachelor of Science in Biology in 1997. He would later add a Master’s Degree in Curriculum and Teaching in 2006. Mike has dedicated his life to education both in the classroom where he has served as a biology and physics teacher at Holt High School in Holt, Michigan since 2005, and as the Holt Rams lacrosse coach from 2005-2014. For his efforts he was named Michigan Lacrosse Coach of the Year in 2012. He is currently an assistant lacrosse coach at Okemos High School in Okemos, Michigan. At the end of the 2015 season, he was named Michigan High School Lacrosse Assistant Coach of the Year.
He is an active member of the United State Lacrosse Association and Michigan Science Teachers Association. Mike also is an active volunteer in the Okemos Public School District and at various youth lacrosse clinics throughout Michigan. He still enjoys coaching and running in his personal time. He is married to his wife Ami and is the proud father of three children: Sawyer, Macie, and Harper.
Geoff Pope ’02
Hometown: Detroit, MI
U of D Jesuit has produced many fine athletes in its 138 year history. There have been standout high school players, college stars, and professional athletes. Out of all of them, Geoff Pope alone holds two major distinctions. While he is one of ten total U of D Jesuit Alumni to have played in the National Football League, he is the only one that has earned a Super Bowl ring and to this day is the “fastest man” in U of D Jesuit history by setting the school record in the 100 meter dash with a time of 10.4 seconds in 2001.
Pope was a standout athlete during one of the more successful athletic eras in U of D Jesuit history in the late 1990s and early 2000s. Both his track and field and football teams were phenomes in the Detroit Catholic League. The 2001 football team he played on is considered one of the greatest teams to ever take the field for the Cubs. This football team won both MHSAA District and Regional Championships. It also was the first time a U of D Jesuit football team would ever beat Catholic Central, Brother Rice, and Orchard Lake St. Mary’s in the same season.
As a Senior, he was an integral part of the track team that defeated Catholic Central for the Catholic League Championship. In that final’s meet alone, Pope would win the 100 meter dash (10.67 seconds), 200 meter dash (21.95 sec), 400 meter dash (50.17 seconds) and anchor the winning U of D Jesuit 4x400 meter relay team. He received All-State Honors at the MHSAA Division I Track Meet after finishing seventh in the 200 meter dash and sixth as part of the 4x400 meter relay team. While at U of D Jesuit, he was also an active member of the school’s B.A.S.E. co-curricular group.
Pope enrolled at Eastern Michigan University from 2002-2005 where he studied Marketing before transferring to Howard University for the 2005-2006 school year. As a member of the Howard football team, he played 22 games, had 76 tackles, and four interceptions. Pope earned All-Conference honors as a Bison. In college, he was named All-Conference in two Division I sports. While at EMU, he earn All-Mid American Conference Honors finishing third at the 2004 MAC Indoor Championships in the 60 meter dash. He also earned All-Mid Eastern Athletic Conference Second Team Football honors while at Howard in 2006.
Although he was originally undrafted, his 4.25 second 40 yard dash made him the fastest player in that year’s NFL Draft. His four NFL seasons were highlighted with a Super Bowl victory in his rookie season. Aside from the Giants, Pope also saw service time with the Miami Dolphins, Cincinnati Bengals, and Philadelphia Eagles.
In 2010, he suffered a career ending injury. Pope immediately returned to Eastern Michigan University to complete his degree in Business and Marketing. Today, he is the Vice President of Effective Cost Based Management, which is a top 100 risk management firm in the United States. Pope belongs to the National Football League Players Association Philadelphia Chapter. He also sits on the Board of Directors for the National Epilepsy Foundation. He is co-chair for the Athletes vs. Epilepsy Initiative, which is a national program geared towards encouraging athletes with epilepsy on all levels to continue and participate in athletics. Pope sits on the Board of Directors for PHLDiversity, which is an arm of the Philadelphia Convention and Visitors Bureau and is also an Executive MBA candidate at Columbia Business School. He is married to his wife Lauren Barrett and is the proud father of two children: Gaige and Garrison.
Bruce Maher ’55
Hometown: Detroit, MI
The hallowed halls of U of D Jesuit have produced 10 National Football League Alumni to date. There was Tillie Voss (Chicago Bears), Jim Pietrzak (NY Giants), Andy Farkas (Washington Redskins) and Pat Heenan (Washington Redskins) that came first; but, no one left their mark on the history of U of D Jesuit football up to that point like Bruce Maher. Before he played eight seasons for the Detroit Lions (1960-1967) and two for the New York Giants (1968-1969), he was a U of D High Cub.
In the decade he spent playing professional football and before the NFL officially started keeping stats for tackles, sacks, and forced fumbles, he played a total of 136 games, collecting 22 interceptions, recovering four fumbles and causing three safeties. He was twice named an NFL team MVP, first for the Lions in 1965, and later for the Giants in 1968.
Maher found a college home at the University of Detroit where his football prowess helped lead the Titans’ 1960 football team to a 7-2 record. This record was the most wins of any University of Detroit football team after World War II. The 1960 team was surrounded with future NFL talent including Jerry Gross, Steve Stonebreaker and Larry Vargo. He was also a standout catcher for the Titans on the baseball team. His exploits on the diamond impressed scouts and he actually ended up playing a year of minor league baseball. When he graduated in 1960 from the University of Detroit, he had earned a Bachelor's Degree in Psychology. In 1979, he was inducted into the University of Detroit Titan Athletic Hall of Fame.
Regardless of any college or professional accomplishments, U of D Jesuit history buffs will remember Maher as one of the rocks of the 1954 Goodfellow Championship Football Team. The championship game alone was enough to make him a Cub legend. He played for the great U of D High coach and fellow U of D Jesuit Athletic Hall of Fame member, Bob Tiernan. In that fateful game against the powerful St. Mary’s of Redford, he scored two touchdowns and an extra point conversion that ultimately decided a champion by a mere three points. At the end of his senior season, he was named a Detroit News First Team All-City and Detroit Free Press First Team All-State football player. The 1955 Cub Annual described Maher as “a man who always fought hard. If someone were to ask you which game he played best, you would have to say all of them, for he never let down.”
When his days as a Cub, Titan, Lion, and Giant had ended, Maher found new interests in business. He worked within the Ford Motor Company in their Glass Division. Maher also co-founded National Telecommunications, Inc., which was the largest privately owned telecommunications company in Wisconsin in the early 1980s. He later founded the B.D. Maher Company. He is a member of the National Football League Players Association and has participated in many of their charity golf tournaments. Maher has also been active with the Midwest Athletes Against Childhood Cancer Fund (the MACC Fund) that is dedicated to funding childhood cancer and related blood disorder research. He enjoys playing golf, tennis and the guitar. He is married to his wife Gerda Marie Maher and is the proud father of six children: Shelia, John, Sharon, Luke, Matthew, and Jesalyn and thirteen grandchildren.
Timothy Sullivan ’66
Hometown: Detroit, MI
U of D Jesuit has produced many fine swimmers and divers in its history. Few have parlayed their time as a student-athlete and swimmer at The High into the successful career and life of service like Timothy Sullivan. The four years he spent in the pool at U of D Jesuit culminated in one of the most decorated senior seasons any Cub swimmer has ever enjoyed. Sullivan anchored the 1966 Cub Swimming Team that would eventually be crowned Detroit Catholic League Champions.
There was one meet during the 1965-1966 season that wasn’t even part of the original team schedule that would become part of his legend. It was late in the team's season and Sullivan had not yet hit the qualifying mark for the state swimming championships. Coach Joe Paz scrambled and found a way to do what good coaches do; he found a way to put his athlete in a position to be successful, at least that was the plan. A special and originally unscheduled meet was set up for a Saturday with Grand Blanc High School. Everything should have gone according to the plan until Sullivan came down with a bad case of the flu before the meet. With chances to meet his senior goals slipping away, Sullivan took the plunge that Saturday under the gun and under the weather. The results of that day speak for themselves. Sullivan did not only make the state qualifying times in both the 50 and 100 meter freestyle events, he set pool and team records in both events. According to Sullivan, “it was a good day.” These Cubs, led by Sullivan, were also responsible for ending the dominance of the Austin Catholic Swimming Team that had won the previous five Catholic League titles. By the end of his senior season, he had earned All-City, All-State, and All-American swimming honors. During his time at The High, he also participated in Student Senate and was part of the Cub News.
When Sullivan’s time at U of D Jesuit was over, he headed to Ann Arbor where he would earn his Bachelor’s Degree in Journalism from the University of Michigan in 1970. He served three years in the military with the U.S. Army from 1970-1973. This service ultimately led to a position as a contract negotiator for the CIA before earning his Juris Doctorate from Georgetown University in 1975. He has practiced law in the greater Washington D.C. area for forty years. Today he is a partner at Thompson Coburn LLP, a nationally recognized law firm where he specializes in representing government contractors. Sullivan lectures more than 30 days a year and is the co-founder of the Public Contracting Institute in Washington D.C.
His service as a “man for others” includes serving as the co-chair of “Food from the Bar”, a charity that supports the Capital Area Food Bank in Washington D.C., serving as a member and chair of the Alexandria Commission on Persons with Disabilities, a term as President of Congressional Country Club in 2000 and the University Club of Washington D.C. in 2006. For all of his efforts, Timothy Sullivan was awarded the St. Aloysius of Gonzaga Medal in 2013, the highest honor given by Gonzaga College High School in Washington D.C. . He is married to his wife Marsha. Together they live in Alexandria, Virginia. He has two children. His daughter Eileen is a Pulitzer Prize winning writer for the Associated Press. His son Hugh works for Johns Hopkins University and followed in his dad’s footsteps swimming at Gonzaga College High School and at Yale University.
James Lilton Bobbitt II ’81
Hometown: Chicago, IL
Football at The High is older than most of the schools in and around Metro-Detroit. Since just after the turn of the 20th Century, some of the city’s best and the brightest have called themselves “Cubs”. Many have gone on to play the game at its highest level professionally and even more have carried their abilities to the college ranks, but few have been as accomplished as James Lilton Bobbitt II.
The late 1970s and early 1980s were trying times for Detroit and U of D Jesuit was not immune. Although teams often struggled at The High at this time, great student-athletes and great performances still uplifted the mission of U of D Jesuit. James' body of work at U of D Jesuit definitely helped make the school a more complete place. He played three sports his sophomore year before settling on basketball and football. James’ time wasn’t limited to athletics. He was an active student participating as a Big Brother, a member of Student Senate, the Varsity Club, and National Honor Society.
Team wins were few during his senior football season, but some of his fondest memories came from that year. He played for Lou Offer (head football coach at that time) and his father who served in an assistant capacity, as well as five teammates that all graduated from GESU Elementary together. There were great performances that year too. In his senior game against Brother Rice High School, James scored a touchdown and recorded 15 tackles on defense. Regardless of the final score, James and crew would put up a valiant effort against the Warriors. There was never any love lost among the two teams at that time. Bobbitt remembers fondly, “We fought hard.” His standout Senior year both in the classroom and on the field garnered a National Merit commendation and full athletic scholarship to play football at Northwestern University. He was named a captain of both the football and basketball teams his senior year, was named both First Team All-Catholic and All-City in football, a consensus football Class B All-State selection, and was awarded U of D Jesuit's highest student honor, the Said Rahaim Award.
A standout football career at Northwestern led to James being named the 1985 Northwestern Big Ten Medal of Honor winner. After graduating with a Bachelor of Science with a focus on engineering he has had a long career including spending 15 years with the 3M corporation. During that time he was awarded the 3M Team Quality Award. He would also spend three years as Regional Vice President for Primerica Financial, among other endeavors while serving as an operation’s supervisor, a contract engineer and an industrial engineer. He is a member of the Institute of Industrial Engineers.
Outside of work, James has been a community leader working with the Boys to Men Ministry for Valley Kingdom Ministries International, a Sunday school teacher, a baseball coach in the Athletes for Christ League, and is the former Associate Pastor for Kingdom of God Outreach Ministries. He and his wife Kecia Ellis Bobbitt have celebrated their 25th wedding anniversary together and he is the proud father of four children: James III, Alexandria, Ellis, and Joshua
Walter Jones, Jr. ‘72
Hometown: Detroit, MI
The U of D Jesuit Class of 1972 produced many great Cubs. Of the teams that are consistently mentioned in the history of The High, the 1972 U of D High basketball team is one of the most prevalent. That year, the chant from the U of D High student section was as simple as the directive, “Give it to Walter!” It was inevitable that Walter Jones Jr. would somehow get the ball from fellow U of D Jesuit Athletic Hall of Fame member Dan Hoff and bank in a shot off the glass. Hoff to Jones was a winning combination that led the team to many big Cub basketball victories through the 1972 campaign.
There were the standout performances to remember: like the 11 points he poured in the last two quarters against Bishop Gallagher his Junior year to lift the Cubs to a victory when they badly needed it; or the 24 points he scored the same year to lead the Cubs to another victory over Dearborn Divine Child. Then there was the time, in 1971, Jones was the only Cub to score in double digits leading Coach Bill Thibodeau’s attempt to really slow the game down against a high powered Catholic Central team. Nonetheless, the 1971 season was remembered as a “tough season.”
If the 1971 season was full of frustration, the 1972 season was pure joy. Together with Jones’ good friend Dan Hoff, U of D Jesuit’s own version of “Trammel to Whitaker” would lead the Cubs to new basketball heights that year. In total, Jones would play a key role in all 18 of the Cubs’ victories that season. He was a standout track athlete as well, excelling in the long jump. By the time Jones’ Senior year had ended, he had earned All-State, All-City, and All-Catholic Honors in basketball and All-Catholic Honors in track and field. His favorite memories of that ’72 year are the thrill of beating Brother Rice three times and the professionalism and grace displayed by his basketball brothers after a heartbreaking one point loss to Detroit Cooley, even after a disregarded late foul that could have made a difference in a possible Cub victory. The Cub Annual quoted Jones saying, “We were the Catholic League Champions. The loss of one game could not overshadow the rewards and experiences of eighteen victories.”
After graduation, Walter attended Eastern Michigan University where he would have the chance to team up again with Dan Hoff on the hardwood. He earned his degree in Accounting and went on to spend over fifteen years working for the accounting firm of Coopers & Lybrand. He spent five years as the Chief Financial Officer for Detroit Public Schools and another nineteen at IBM as a senior contracts consultant. In the community, he has continued to be a “man for others” volunteering with many organizations in the fight against homelessness.
His future plans include officially retiring at the end of December 2015 so he can hopefully spend more time with his current interests which include: traveling, reading, and photography. He is married to his wife Emma. He is the proud father of his daughter Emma and has one grandchild (Kaden).
Dan Hoff ’72
Hometown: Mattawan, MI
“Trammel to Whitaker” or “Hoff to Jones”. The turn of a phrase made no difference to the U of D Jesuit Cub faithful in the early 1970s. In many ways, they were one in the same and together both duos would put their respected teams on the map forever. While many will remember him for his half of a dynamic duo, Dan Hoff has lived the life of a U of D Jesuit “man for others”. He has accumulated all of the distinctions and honors one would expect from such an accomplished student, athlete, teacher and coach.
Hoff was a multi-sport athlete and earned All-Catholic and All-City honors in baseball while at The High, but basketball has been his life from the very beginning. He was co-captain of the 1972 U of D Jesuit Basketball Team that became the first to win a Catholic League title. He still vividly remembers the Catholic League title game where the Cubs defeated Brother Rice for a third straight time that season. He would describe it as, “a true team effort.” He would earn All-Catholic, All-City, and All-State honors for his role in the Cubs eighteen victories that year. At The High, Hoff would also serve as a Student Senate Class Representative and Social Committee Chair. He left U of D High after being named the 1972 Said Rahaim Award winner, the highest honor a U of D Jesuit Cub can receive from his fellow classmates.
Hoff would get the opportunity to team up once again with his good friend Walter Jones at Eastern Michigan University where they both played basketball for Coach Allan Freund. He would also play baseball for two seasons at EMU. During his stint at Eastern Michigan, the school would join the Mid-American Conference. As a member of the new conference in 1974, Hoff was immediately honored as a 1974-1975 All-MAC Honorable Mention basketball player. He would also earn 1974-1975 and 1975-1976 All-Academic MAC honors. In 1976, he was awarded Academic All-American Second Team honors and was named one of fifteen NCAA Postgraduate Scholars in the entire country. Hoff earned his Bachelor of Arts Degree in English and Literature in 1976. Later he would receive his Master’s Degree from Eastern Michigan in 1983.
From 1977-1979, he returned to U of D Jesuit where he taught and coached; thereafter, St. Hugo’s followed from 1979-1981 before an opportunity relocated him to Mackay Australia State High from 1981-1985. In his relocation years, Hoff had the opportunity to play professional basketball in Australia. He returned to Michigan to take a job at Ogemaw Heights High School in 1985-1986 before settling at Mattawan High School in the southwest corner of the state from 1986-2013. While at Mattawan he would coach many successful basketball teams. In 1996-1997, he was named the Regional Coach of the Year. For the 1999-2000 season, he was named Michigan High School Coach of the Year.
He is a member of the National Association of Basketball Coaches and the Basketball Coaches Association of Michigan. Hoff also participates as a member of the Lions Clubs of Mattawan and the Knights of Columbus. In 2014, he retired from classroom teaching. He currently serves as part of the basketball staff at Western Michigan University. In his free time, Dan enjoys aquabike racing, cycling, and perhaps most of all, being a grandad. He is married to his wife Lynette Brown and has two children: Katherine and Thomas. He also has one grandchild, Roslyn.
Chuck Gumbel '64 ( Distinguished Service)
A life of service always has a beginning, but no finish line. When Chuck Gumbel graduated from U of D Jesuit in the spring of 1964, he was already cemented in a graduating class full of exceptional “men for others”; but the path his life would take was still merely a question. His years spent at “The High” were not consumed by athletics and it doesn’t explain the whole story about his love of sports or his competitive spirit. There was a little baseball and some bowling. One of his proudest memories from those formative years was achieving the rank of Eagle Scout with Troop 194 that was based out of St. Cecilia in Detroit.
His post graduation plans didn’t take him far away from Seven Mile and Cherrylawn. He, like so many other Cubs of that era, would remain in the Jesuit corridor of northwest Detroit and attend college at the University of Detroit. Even before his time as a Titan was over, he was working with kids. In 1967, he first started coaching 5th and 6th grade basketball at St. Michael’s in Southfield. Chuck graduated from the University of Detroit in 1968 with a Bachelor of Arts Degree in History. Cubs of today would be surprised to know Mr. Gumbel, the math teacher that constantly has a line of students asking for additional help, intended to begin his career as a History teacher.
In 1968, Chuck began his official career as an educator. He took a teaching position at St. Michael’s, but his role expanded to being the Athletic Director and baseball coach while continuing to coach basketball. In 1971 Chuck took a new teaching position at St. Dennis in Royal Oak, Michigan. It was at St. Dennis where the History teacher would really develop an affinity for numbers and teaching students how, as Galileo put it, “math was the language that God used to write the universe.” Aside from his classroom duties, he would find time to coach the girls’ basketball and softball teams. St. Dennis is also where Chuck would meet his dear friend and confidant, Pat Hearns, a fellow University of Detroit graduate. According to Pat, when it came to Chuck and school, whether in the classroom or on the field of play, “kids came first.”
In 1974, a new opportunity for Chuck took him to Madison Heights Bishop Foley High School. This was also the same year he would earn a Master's Degree in Mathematics Instruction from the University of Detroit. There he would build even more relationships, many of which remain strong to this day. In his time at Foley, he would coach boys’ golf, womens’ track and field for three years, womens’ basketball for three years, junior varsity softball and junior varsity volleyball for a single season each. During his tenure at Bishop Foley, he would also serve as its Director of Transportation, Dean of Students and President of the Detroit Catholic League’s Women’s Coaches Association. Eventually Chuck would be honored by Bishop Foley when he was presented with the school’s Distinguished Service Award.
In 1983, a chance to return to The High presented itself. Hindsight might prove that Chuck had some amount of clairvoyance about the move, but at the time, you could question leaving a thriving Bishop Foley north of Detroit to return to U of D Jesuit. Since 1983, he has served as the Assistant Principal for Student Affairs, Co-Athletic Director with Mr. Steve Sharp (another close friend), Assistant Principal for Academics, Math instructor, assistant varsity hockey coach, freshman golf coach and freshman baseball coach. Somewhere along the lines he also was pushed into duty to coach one freshmen basketball game along with former Cub John Knight, who is the current President of Warren DeLaSalle High School. Chuck would tell you that they “defeated Brother Rice” after which he, “promptly resigned with U of D Jesuit’s highest winning percentage.” In 2010, he was chosen to receive the P.J. Rice Award for going above and beyond in the classroom.
Of all Gumbel’s athletic interests at U of D Jesuit, none may be more meaningful or personal to him than the role he played in helping to relaunch the Cub’s hockey program in 1995 after a 60 year hiatus. From soliciting the necessary funding to being an instrumental part in finding the man who would guide the Cub’s hockey program to this day (U of D Jesuit and Detroit CHSL Hall of Fame Coach Rick Bennetts), Chuck has his fingerprints all over the program’s blueprint. It was not a perfect beginning. There were maroon and white uniforms and 21 total players, some of whom were very “green” to the sport. He remembers Brad Higgins from that ’95 season. Brad had never played before, but to his credit, “endured the practices and was able to maintain a smile on his face.” Gumbel was instrumental in bringing back the captains (U of D Jesuit Athletic Hall of Fame member Carl H. Schmidt, Jr. ’37 and Ralph Bowen ’37) from the last Cub hockey team that played in 1937. These are just a few of the happy memories of that special season that didn’t include a lot of victories. “They laid the groundwork for future Cub teams.” A mere four years later, the Cubs captured the first of many program titles by winning the Michigan Prep Hockey League. “This was a credit to those first 21 players who inspired this team to keeping working hard.” To date, the program he lovingly helped re-establish has become one of the premier high school hockey programs in the state winning numerous awards, making a total of four MHSAA Frozen Four appearances (currently four in a row) and has been named an Academic All-State Team every year since its inception.
There is so much more that could also be said for Chuck’s career of service. He has officiated football, basketball, baseball and track for over 20 years. There are the several youth teams, governing boards and programs he has been a part of including: the Birmingham Hockey Association, youth baseball and softball programs in Clawson, Michigan, and Guardian Angels School Softball. Personally, he is a rich man surrounded by family, friends and loved ones. He has been married to the love of his life, Judy for 45-years, “50 years in 2020” Chuck said planning ahead. His oldest son Matthew ’91 (Colleen) works for EMC and has three children: Brendan ’18 (currently playing hockey for U of D Jesuit), Jacob ’20 and Ava. His daughter Christina, graduated from Bishop Foley in 1995 and in her father’s footsteps works with youth as a school psychologist for Building Bridges Therapy Center. His youngest son David ’00 (Maureen) was part of those inaugural hockey seasons at The High. Dave’s son Ryan is a “class of 2030”, Chuck said thinking ahead again.
Chuck Gumbel spends much of his time now enjoying his grandchildren. He still manages the U of D High Alumni Softball team sponsored by Shield’s Pizza in Troy that plays out of Royal Oak each summer. Chuck bowls, or as he calls it a “weekly experience with frustration” in the Detroit Rotary Men’s Bowling League with his brother John, son Dave, Mike Murphy, brother-in-law Steve, and his nephews. He can be found golfing weekly in the North Rosedale Park Golf League. He has enjoyed participating in the Michigan Senior Olympics Tournaments in golf, bowling, pickleball and horseshoes.
A career of service always has a beginning, and with Gumbel, there is certainly no end in sight. His career working with youth in education and athletics has now crossed over into its sixth decade. His friend Pat Hearns would tell you that, “his enthusiasm for U of D Jesuit is real”. Chuck would put it this way: “As much as academics is stressed at The High on a daily basis, I enjoy encouraging our young men to be involved beyond the classroom. There should be a place for each of our students to participate in athletics. To be a scholar-athlete at U of D Jesuit is quite an accomplishment when you consider the rigor of the academic schedule. Hearing that our athletic teams have placed in the top ten schools academically is music to my ears. It reaffirms that we are doing things the right way each day. I am very proud of our athletic program. Hopefully we begin to realize that our program is one to be proud of from football in the fall through baseball in the spring, large or small. The values that each individual takes away from their sport are ones that will serve them well in their future careers. Being a part of our athletic program has enriched my life in many ways. I have been able to work closely with great men… Kennedy, Hammond, Sharp, Bennetts, Olejniczak, and Mancuso to name a few. I have a great deal of respect for those who devote their lives to helping our youth to be better men through sports.”
Chuck’s life of service to his friends, family and most importantly his students began many seasons ago. It had its beginning in the formation of U of D Jesuit High School and has only grown since those days. It does not and will not have an end. Chuck is and always will be a “Man for Others”.
2014 Inductees
- Bob Tiernan
- John Tenbusch
- Ron Rice Jr. '90
- Chris Polk '93
- Randy Lam '00
- Gus Johnson '85
- Kevin Halloran '75
- Andy Farkas '34
- Jack Curley '63
- Rick Bennetts
- Joe Beldyga '69
- Connor Barwin '05
- Ryan Alexander '02
- Tom Coyne '62 (Distinguished Service)
Bob Tiernan
Hometown: Toledo, OH
Robert “Bob” Tiernan probably didn’t imagine that he would make the biggest impact of his professional career coaching high school football in Detroit when he graduated from Waite High School in Toledo in 1924 or when he was he was playing end for the University of Montana in the late 1920s. Fate has a funny way of working itself out.
Following a successful playing career and graduation from the University of Montana, Tiernan found himself back in his hometown of Toledo, coaching the offensive and defensive lines at the original St. John’s High School. In 1930, he was named head coach at St. John’s and coached there for two seasons. But in 1932, due to money difficulties during the Depression, St. John’s closed, leaving Tiernan without a job, and once again, fate intervened. At the same time St. John’s closed, U of D Jesuit was looking for a football coach and hired Tiernan to coach the Cubs, starting in 1932. As luck would have it for Tiernan, his best player from St. John’s, Andy Farkas ’34, would also be joining him at U of D Jesuit.
Before Tiernan’s arrival, U of D Jesuit football did not distinguish itself in the Metropolitan League (forerunner to today’s Detroit Public School League), which changed with Tiernan’s arrival. In his first six years as coach, Tiernan went 40-3-2, winning the Metropolitan League title in 1936.
Tiernan’s 1939 team may be one of the finest to ever don the Maroon and White as the Cubs won the Metropolitan League and defeated Catholic Central in the Goodfellows game to win the All-City title. Going into the 1939 Goodfellows game, U of D Jesuit was considerable underdogs to the rival Shamrocks, who were coming in on a 36 game winning streak and had outscored their opponents by over 1100 points during the streak. Led by All-Staters Art Montagne and George Reno, the Cubs defeated Catholic Central 21-0 before 23,000 spectators at Briggs (Tiger) Stadium. The huge upset cemented Tiernan in prep gridiron lore and received “Coach of the Year” honors for his team’s tremendous accomplishment.
Under Tiernan’s tutelage, the Cubs won Metropolitan titles five times: 1936, 1939, 1949, 1952, and 1954. Tiernan’s 1954 U of D Jesuit football team featured Detroit Lion Bruce Mahar ’55, All-Staters Mike Lodish and Ed Draves, and All-City performers Jerry Barlow and Maurice DesRosiers, as the Cubs swept through the league, defeating Pershing 39-6 and then defeating St. Mary’s of Redford in the Goodfellows Game, 23-20. The game included a 90-yard touchdown run by Maher.
As the Cubs moved into the Catholic League, Tiernan’s team won the Catholic League Central Division title in 1958, but lost to St. Mary’s of Redford in the championship game. In 1960, Tiernan retired from coaching the U of D Jesuit varsity football team after 29 seasons and compiled a record of 150-52-9, having coached seven championship teams. But as was noted in the Cub News when Tiernan retired, “The final quality that ranks him among the best is his insistence that ball games are not to be won at the moral or physical expense of any individual.”
After retiring as the headman of the U of D Jesuit football team, Tiernan coached the U of D Jesuit freshman football team for several years before finally retiring from all coaching in 1964. On April 14, 1967, Detroit mayor Jerome Cavanagh made a proclamation, declaring that day as “Robert Tiernan Day” in Detroit.
Tiernan earned several honors during his coaching career, including being named Metropolitan League Coach of the Year and Michigan High School Coach of the Year. Tiernan was inducted into the Michigan High School Coaches Hall of Fame in 1958 and the Catholic League Hall of Fame in 1977.
Affectionately called “Uncle Buck”, Tiernan taught a variety of subjects during his 37-year career at U of D Jesuit: history, business law, physical education. He also served as Athletic Director and Chairman of the Social Studies department. His wife, “Aunt Nan” Tiernan, served as the school’s librarian for 26 years, before the couple retired together from U of D Jesuit in 1969. (To put this in some perspective, the Tiernans’ last year at the High was the first year for both Dan Hafner and Tom Coyne – extended legacies indeed!)
John Tenbusch
Hometown: Detroit, MI
The master said it best, “I entered U of D in 1957 when I was 24 years old. It was then that she and I began this long love affair.” - “Demerit Giver,” “kitchen table philosopher,” crossword puzzler,” “PBR drinker,” “smoke chaser,” “never-out-of-debtor,” “low rider of the sadlands,” “toughest SOB in the valley,”- These are just some of the many fond ways John Tenbusch is remembered for his lasting impact at U of D Jesuit. He would, of course, always simply describe himself as “ever feisty and extraordinary.” There never has been and never will ever be another force like him to walk the halls of The High.
In 1957, John Tenbusch entered the doors of The High as a green 24 year-old English teacher. By the time his tenure at U of D Jesuit ended in 1992, he was simply a legend. “JT” as he was known by his friends, who amounted to just about anyone he ever crossed paths with at Seven Mile and Cheerylawn in Detroit, was a member of the Cub hall of fame before there was a Hall of Fame. Barry McIntee ’70, the quarterback of the 1968 Cub Championship football team didn’t mince words when speaking of his former track coach: “I don’t know anyone who was a better friend to so many. He’s still a friend and always will be.”
In 1958, after being at The High for only a year, Tenbusch became the track and cross country coach, a position he held until 1971 and again from 1974 to 1978. In total, his teams won nine city championships, and included all-city athletes, 15 all-state, and one all-American. He left U of D Jesuit in 1978 for a job with Ford Motor Company, but that job didn’t satisfy his soul in the same way working with the young men at U of D Jesuit, did so he returned in 1980. He then served as the alumni director from 1980-1987, when he returned to the classroom full-time. After his retirement in 1992, he ran a learning center in Canton Township for students with special needs, but he remained active in alumni events and frequently visited the U of D Jesuit campus on Seven Mile.
As hard as he worked personally, Tenbusch expected (more accurately, demanded) others to match his diligence in ensuring their own success. Indeed, calm pertinacity in the face of adversity was the cornerstone of his philosophy. To wit: In the dead of winter in 1977 when, following several days of indoor workouts due to foul weather, he abruptly ordered the track team outside. Tenbusch followed out of doors with his characteristic mien, straight back, lock jawed, eyes like iron ingots, all the while the blowing snow swirls lapping his feet and the track.
“I know you’re all wondering why I got you out here,” he said to his captive audience. “Well there are two reasons we are practicing outside: First, at some time later in this season, you’ll remember this practice, think about how hard it was and then pass the competitor in front of you. Second, you’ll tell your kids that ‘that old bastard made me run in this snow and I thank him for it.’”
His approach to life often manifested itself in ways as unique as the man himself. Yet, for those lucky enough to really know JT, it was impossible not to be at least moderately awestruck by the man’s infinite well of compassion. – Adapted from Dennis B. Mulqueen’s ’71 Winter 1997 Highlights Article chronicling the life of John Tenbusch
Ron Rice Jr. '90
Hometown: Detroit, MI
Ronald Rice was a big part of U of D Jesuit’s football teams of the late 1980s. Led by Head Coach Dick Kennedy, the Cubs won back-to-back Catholic League Double-A division titles, the team’s first division titles since 1968 and the program’s first winning seasons since 1973. Rice, along with fellow teammates Bryan Little, Matt Dudus, Brendan Henry, Jonathan Parrish, Nick Martin, and Dave Handley, among others, played in the school’s first two Prep Bowl appearance in the Pontiac Silverdome.
In Rice’s junior year, he helped lead the Cubs to an undefeated record in league as quarterback and defensive back, winning the Catholic League Double-A division and earning All-League honors in the process. In his senior year, Rice led the Cubs to some late-game heroics, throwing a 70 yard touchdown pass to Bryan Little against Bishop Foley and leading the Cubs to a 19-13 win; throwing a touchdown pass to Chris Foerg to beat Divine Child 6-3, on the way to a second Prep Bowl berth and a 7-2 record, the most wins for the U of D Jesuit football team since 1968. For his efforts senior year, Rice was named to the All-League, All-Catholic, All-Metro, and All-State teams and was awarded a football scholarship from Eastern Michigan.
At Eastern Michigan, Rice played with the Eagles from 1991 to 1994, earning four letters. He played in 40 games for EMU and made 38 starts. He finished his career as the sixth-leading tackler in EMU history with 325 total stops and was named first-team All-Mid-American Conference in 1994 after playing in all 11 games that season and finishing second on the team in tackles with 93. Rice also led the MAC and ranked second in the nation in kickoff returns in 1991 with 11-for-319 yards and a 29.0 average. He was inducted into the Eastern Michigan Hall of Fame in 2002.
After his playing career at Eastern Michigan, Rice signed a free-agent deal with his hometown Detroit Lions. Rice played with the Lions into the 2001 season before a neck injury forced him to retire. During his tenure with the Lions, Rice played in 71 games and recorded 477 tackles, 12 interceptions, and 6.5 sacks.
It was also during his time with the Lions that Rice started the Ron Rice Foundation in 1999 to work with Detroit-area youth groups and starting “Weekend with the Pros”, an annual football clinic for Detroit youth. He also helped establish the R2 Book Club to help young students with reading problems and served as the Detroit Lions' representative for the Shop to Stop Drugs program. For his community service work, Rice was the Detroit Lions' recipient of the 2000 Walter Payton NFL Man of the Year Award.
In his post-Lions career, Rice has remained active through community programs, such as Playworks Michigan, as President of the Detroit chapter of the NFL Alumni Association, and co-founder of Michigan Elite Football Club. He has done television and radio broadcast work with Fox 2, Fox Sports, Comcast, and 97.1 The Ticket. Rice also went back to school, earning his Master of Sports Administration in 2012 from Wayne State University.
Rice lives in Southfield with his wife, Dana, and his two sons – Xavier, a sophomore at U of D Jesuit and Caden, a first grader at St. Regis.
Chris Polk '93
Hometown: Detroit, MI
Memorable Moment: “The 1993 Operation Friendship meet stands out as my favorite performance. This was the meet where I set the school record in my primary event (400 Meter dash), running a first place time of 47.9 seconds, while running for the last time on the UDJ track.”
Chris Polk’s influence in track and field at U of D Jesuit spans two eras in Cub track and field history. His first mark on the history of U of D Jesuit track and field goes back to his time as a student at the High. Polk came in and set the U of D Jesuit freshman, sophomore, and junior record in the 400 Meter run before finally claiming the school record in his senior year at 47.9 seconds. In the process, Polk also set the Catholic League 400 Meter record and was part of the school record 4x200 Meter relay team with William Brooks, Jim Krol, and Edzra Gibson.
Though Polk’s accomplishments during his time on the track team led him to earn individual All-Catholic and All-State honors, he also helped the U of D Jesuit track team win three straight Catholic League Central Division titles (1991, 1992, 1993) and the 1991 Catholic League championship. But Polk’s biggest team achievement was being part of the 1993 Class B State Championship in track, winning the 200 Meter and 400 Meter dash, and being part of the state champion 4x200 and 4x400 Meter relay teams, giving the Cubs their first state title since 1927.
After graduating from Western Michigan University, Polk returned to his alma mater, working in the Development Office, first as Alumni Director, then as a Major Gifts Officer. During that time, Polk served as an assistant coach to fellow Hall of Fame member Joe Beldyga on the U of D Jesuit track team, coaching sprinters, including the sprinter who broke his 200 Meter record, Aaron Conti. During his time as an assistant coach, the track team won five straight Catholic League titles (2002-2006) and five straight Regional titles.
After his time at U of D Jesuit, Polk served various fundraising organizations. He currently serves as Sr. Vice President for Development, Neighborhood Service Organization in Detroit and Vice-President at Ter Molen Watkins and Brandt, Chicago, working with higher education institutions, independent schools, arts and cultural organizations, and professional organizations.
Randy Lam '00
Hometown: Royal Oak, MI
Memorable Moment: Dual meet vs. Brother Rice, 2000 – “We lost the meet, but set the tone heading into the Catholic League meet and the State Finals by coming back to win the 400 Freestyle on the last leg to conclude the meet.”
If there was one swimmer who could be singled out as putting U of D Jesuit swimming on the map in the late 1990s, it would be Randy Lam. Coming out of Royal Oak to the High, Lam set numerous school and state records on his way to being a three-year All-American and a four-time All-State and All-Catholic swimmer.
During Lam’s freshman year in 1997, he was the only member of the U of D Jesuit swimming team to qualify for the state finals, but he represented the school well, finishing second in the state in the 200 Individual Medley (IM) and seventh in the 500 Freestyle. In 1998, Lam’s sophomore year, he won the 200 IM in the state meet and finished third in the 500 Freestyle. In 1999, Lam led the Cubs to their highest finish in the swimming state finals in over 25 years, finishing seventh in Class A, and second in the Catholic League Championships, the Cubs highest finish in the league meet since 1974. In terms of individual honors, Lam was named All-State in 200 IM, Butterfly, and 400 Freestyle Relay, while repeating as state champion in the 200 IM.
Lam’s senior season in 2000 was arguably his best year and one of the best in program history. Along with seniors Michael Porth and Garrett Passiak, Lam led the Cubs to a fourth place finish in the Class A, the school’s highest ever finish in the state finals, and second in the Catholic League Championship. Individually, Lam was a state champion in two events: the 200 IM (third state title in a row and setting a state record) and 100 Fly, and finishing third as part of the 200 and 400 Freestyle Relay. For his accomplishments, Lam was named Michigan High School Swimmer of the Year in 2000. Lam still holds the U of D Jesuit record for the 100 Fly and 200 IM and part of the 200 Medley relay and the 400 Free relay.
Lam went on to swim collegiately at the University of Georgia, where he was an All-Southeastern Conference swimmer and an honorable mention All-American in 2001, 2002, and 2003. He graduated from the University of Georgia in 2004 with Bachelor of Business Administration, concentrating in Economics.
Lam currently lives in Chicago with his fiancé, Britni Tozzi, and works as a financial regulator for the Securities and Exchange Commission.
Gus Johnson '85
Hometown: Detroit, MI
Gus Johnson has always been a multi-sport kind of guy. The All-Catholic football, basketball, and baseball star now spend his days on national television dissecting football, basketball, and soccer for Fox Sports 1. He describes having a chance to attend U of D Jesuit as “the most important decision of his young life.” He credits the education and athletics at U of D Jesuit with much of his success today. He wants to tell kids who are like he was in high school, finding it tough to make it, to simply “work hard and get through it as best as you can, because what you learn there will stay with you for the rest of your life. And [though] it’s a hurdle, it’s important to get over that hurdle just to say ‘Hey, I made it.’ The smartest kids don’t always turn out to be the most successful, and young kids have to realize that. Just do your thing and try to get through it, and if you can it will help you in the long run.”
Frankly, Gus was not the best student. He recalls his senior year at The High when he was failing Latin and the principal, Richard Twohig, S.J., called him into his office and told him that if he didn’t pass he wouldn’t graduate. It hit him like a ton of bricks. He was failing and he was scared. He worked hard with Fr. Frank Canfield ’54, S.J., to master the material and improve his knowledge. It all came down to the final exam and unlike most students, Gus chose to take an oral exam. He ended up passing the exam and the class. That small bit of public speaking confidence would later translate itself into big things for the ’85 Cub grad.
Athletics is what kept him going through the tough times. He would sometimes come home depressed about school, but when he was playing ball, even though the Cubs didn’t have the best teams in his varsity years, it meant a lot to him and he got excited about it. In 1985, Gus was an All-Catholic quarterback, All-Catholic basketball player, and he played first base and caught for the baseball team. Back then he was a sports fanatic, but he didn’t think much about being a sportscaster.
He majored in political science at Howard University where he lettered in baseball. One summer, away at school, he received the most valuable advice of his life. His mother told him that whatever he decided to do with his life, it had to be something that would make him want to jump out of bed in the morning. One night it just clicked while he was watching or more accurately “zoning out” entranced by the local sportscaster on Washington D.C. television. The rest, as they say, is history.
Gus Johnson has attained and surpassed every professional goal he has ever set for himself. He is a study in perseverance and dedication. This is the same guy who almost didn’t graduate from The High on time. The guy who didn’t even have a “B” average in college. He picked the wrong major in college. And even after he decided what his life’s ambition would be, it was still a pipe dream. He never gave up. And now, after all of the amazing success he has had working with MSG network as a broadcaster for the New York Knicks, CBS Sports, ESPN, and Fox Sports 1, his objective is to create new goals and move forward. Gus stands as a shining example to many of U of D Jesuit’s young men. – Adapted from Adam Alexander’s ’83 Winter 1997 Highlights Article on Gus Johnson
Kevin Halloran '75
Hometown: Beverly Hills, MI
Memorable Moments: “1975 Catholic League Championship game in basketball – win over Shrine with almost 8,000 in attendance at U of D College; 1975 overtime win at Brother Rice in basketball; Friday night home game against Catholic Central - the benefit game for Student Senate President Paul Mueller, who became a quadriplegic after an accident in the beginning of the school year. It was a sold out game and the energy and feel in the gym was something I had never felt before.”
Kevin Halloran found his way to the High in the footsteps of his older brothers, William ’68 and Terence ’71. While he played football his freshman year, he found his niche in cross country, basketball, and track, becoming a 10-time letterman in three sports.
In cross country, Halloran earned All-City and All-Regional honors in 1973 and 1974, and finished third in the Catholic League in 1974 under Cross Country coach John Tenbusch, helping the team earn a third place finish in the Catholic League Finals.
In basketball, Halloran earned three letters under then-Head Coach Dan Hafner, earning All-City honors in 1974 and 1975. The 1975 U of D Jesuit basketball team, led by Halloran, Shaun Bradley, Tony Hosey, and Don Fucinari, won the Catholic League Central Division and the Catholic League championship over Royal Oak Shrine, 74-57. For his efforts and leadership on the court, Halloran was named to the All-State basketball team.
Perhaps Halloran’s lasting achievement would be in track, where he still holds the school record for the 1600 Meter run and was part of the 3200 Meter relay record, along with Joe Fattore, Tim Gates, and Jim Baumgartner. Halloran also won the Catholic League championship in the mile run and was also part of the 1600 Meter relay team which set a then-school record and finished third in the Class A state championship meet.
For all of his accomplishments during his time at U of D Jesuit, Halloran was awarded the Sam Madden Scholar-Athlete award by the Catholic League in basketball and was voted the Said Rahaim ‘64 “Man of the Year” by his classmates.
Halloran went on to play college basketball at Cornell, earning letters in 1977, 1978, and 1979, then went on to work for General Electric, before going to work for himself in the Detroit-area. Halloran and his wife Peggy have three children – Kennice, Ian ’05, and Grace. During his son Ian’s time at the High, Halloran served in the Dad’s Club, eventually becoming Vice-President. Halloran and his son are the only father-son duo on the U of D Jesuit track and field record board, with Ian holding the school record for high jump.
Andy Farkas '34
Hometown: Toledo, OH
One of the early stars of U of D Jesuit football wasn’t even from the city of Detroit, but rather 60 miles south in Toledo, Ohio. Andy Farkas was born in Toledo, Ohio in 1916. Hungarian immigrants, Geza and Rose Farkas, adopted him as an infant. He started his high school career at the original St. John’s High School in Toledo, Ohio where he met Bob Tiernan. After St. John’s closed in 1932 due to the Depression, both player and coach traveled north to Detroit and arrived at U of D Jesuit in September 1932.
“Anvil Andy” Farkas quickly made a name for himself in his new city, leading the Metropolitan League in scoring in 1932 with 61 points, while being named to both the All-City and All-State teams. After graduating from U of D Jesuit, Farkas headed down to McNichols and Livernois, playing football for U of D College. During his four years with U of D, Farkas led the Titans in scoring in 1936 and 1937, including scoring five touchdowns against Hillsdale. Farkas’ 15 touchdowns in 1937 earned him a spot on the All-American team and caught the attention of professional football scouts. One such team was the Washington Redskins, who began scouting Farkas after an impressive performance against Catholic University in Washington, D.C.
The Washington Redskins selected Farkas with the #9 pick in the 1938 Draft. Farkas rushed for 315 yards and league-high six touchdowns in 1938 on a 6-3-2 Redskins team. His greatest season was in 1939, when he set an NFL record with 11 touchdowns – five rushing, five receiving and one interception return – and led the league in scoring with 68 points. He also kicked two extra points. He scored three touchdowns in one game, then a league record. One of his 11 touchdowns for the 8-2-1 Redskins was on a 99-yard pass from Filchock, a distance matched only seven other times in NFL history. Farkas ended up leading Washington in rushing in 1938, 1939, 1942, and 1943.
Farkas’ 1942 season is embedded in Redskins lore as he rushed for a team-high 468 yards on 125 carries and three touchdowns, caught 11 passes for 143 yards and two scores, returned 16 punts for 219 yards (13.7 average) and intercepted three passes. He returned a kickoff 94 yards for a touchdown against the New York Giants on Nov. 15, 1942, a 14-7 Redskins win that clinched at least a tie for the Eastern Division title. Farkas’ biggest accomplishment during the 1942 season was securing the team’s 14-6 victory over the Chicago Bears in the 1942 championship game. With the Redskins ahead, 7-6, in the third quarter, he ran the ball 10 times on a 12-play, 44-yard drive, plunging over from the 1 for a touchdown.
During his career with the Redskins from 1938 to 1944, Farkas rushed for nearly 2,000 yards, tallied 1,086 receiving yards, intercepted 11 passes at defensive back, and returned three kicks for touchdowns. Farkas was named to the All-Pro and Pro Bowl teams in 1939 and 1942 and was named to the list of the 80 Greatest Redskins of All-Time in 2012. Farkas finished his career with the Detroit Lions in 1945.
Andy Farkas passed away on April 10, 2001, at the age of 84.
Jack Curley '63
Hometown: Detroit, MI
It can be safely said that there is not a single person who has done more to support U of D Jesuit athletics than Jack Curley through his generosity and love for his alma mater.
Curley grew up on the east side of Detroit, attending St. Bartholomew Grade School in the Outer Drive and Ryan Road area before attending U of D Jesuit. His path to the High paved the way for his younger brothers - Denis ’65, Roger ’68, the late Kevin ’73, and Shawn ’75 – to follow their brother lead to the school.
During his time at U of D Jesuit, Curley played four years of football, eventually being named captain of the 1962 team under then-football Head Coach Jim Leary. As captain, Curley led the team to a 6-3 record in the Catholic League Central Division. Curley also played four years of baseball at U of D Jesuit, earning two varsity letters.
After graduating from U of D Jesuit, Curley attended and played football at Dartmouth College. He graduated with his Bachelor degree in 1967 and his Master of Business Administration degree, also from Dartmouth College, in 1968. After graduating from Dartmouth in 1968, Curley served in the United States Army for three years, serving as a 1st lieutenant in Vietnam, earning a Bronze Star and the Purple Heart.
Once discharged from the Army in 1971, Curley went to work for Morgan Stanley in their Investment Banking division. He proceeded to become a Managing Director in 1979 and in 1991, became the head of Global Equity Research for the firm. He retired from Morgan Stanley in 1994.
Following Curley’s retirement from Morgan Stanley, he was approached by then U of D Jesuit President Tim Shannon regarding the “Reclaiming the Future” capital campaign, which partially focused on building new facilities and refurbishing existing ones at the school. One of the areas brought to Curley’s attention for renovation and expansion were the athletic facilities. Seeing that Curley credited U of D Jesuit for his success and for “taking him where he needed to go”, he felt was time to give back to the school which had given him so much.
During the late 1990s and early 2000s, Curley was the major benefactor behind the addition of the turf football field, the addition of the second gym and weight room, renovation to the locker rooms and the main gym, and the construction of a new gym lobby, which is named Curley Hall in honor of Jack Curley and his brothers for their generosity to the school. He also established the Curley Family scholarship, which is part of the school’s tuition assistance program, in honor of his parents.
Curley remains a steadfast supporter of U of D Jesuit and the athletic program, knowing from his own experience at the High and at Dartmouth College that hard work in the classroom and on the athletic fields can serve as the basis to one’s success in professional life.
Curley is married to the former Mary Ellen Strong and has three children – Karen, Michael, and Brian, and six grandchildren.
Rick Bennetts
Hometown: Calument, MI
The modern era of the U of D Jesuit hockey program (1995 to present) didn’t start in Detroit. No, it actually started a few years before 1995, in the small town called Calumet in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula. It was there Rick Bennetts grew up, playing football, hockey, and baseball at Calumet High School, knowing little of the impact he would make on a Jesuit high school in Detroit several years down the line.
Bennetts’s career began in 1977, working for the Michigan Department of Corrections, earning his college degree from Northern Michigan in 1979, and moving down state along the way. After retiring from the State of Michigan in 1992, Bennetts began working for Don Bosco Hall, a private non-profit agency, which provides supportive human services to enhance the quality of life for youth, and their families residing in the Metropolitan Detroit.
During his time with the Michigan Department of Corrections and Don Bosco Hall, Bennetts started coaching high level travel hockey with the Little Caesars Hockey Club. During his time with Little Caesars, Bennetts won six state championships and two national championships.
In the mid-1990s, U of D Jesuit decided to bring back hockey as a varsity sport to the school. Hockey was a large part of the school’s athletic identity in the 1920s and 1930s, before a fatal hockey-related accident put the sport on the shelf in 1937. In the mid-1990s, U of D Jesuit was starting to grow again and wanted to expand its athletic offerings, so hockey was re-started as a result.
Bennetts applied for the position for the opportunity to build a hockey program from scratch. In turn, then-Athletic Director Lou Offer took a chance on a coach who had proven himself on the travel hockey level, but now it was time to start from scratch with the caliber nowhere near the quality he was used to when he coached with Little Caesars.
The first year was a bit of a struggle and even that may be an understatement, with the Cubs finishing the year at 3-20. But as the years went along and the program started to mature, the Cubs started winning. The Cubs won Michigan Prep Hockey League division titles in 1999 and 2000. In 1998, a JV team was added and in 2002, the Cubs joined the Michigan Interscholastic Hockey League (MIHL), arguably the toughest league in Michigan.
The next breakthrough came in 2005, when the U of D Jesuit hockey team won a regional title for the first time and qualified for the “Frozen Four”. The program took another step forward in 2009 when the team won the MIHL title for the first time, beating out rival Catholic Central by one point. In 2010, 2013, and 2014, the Cubs won regional titles again and moved on to the “Frozen Four”, giving the Cubs four “Frozen Four” appearances in 10 seasons. So, it seems appropriate as U of D Jesuit celebrates 20 years of hockey that the person who has headed up the success was inducted into the Catholic League Hall of Fame in 2014 and into the U of D Jesuit Hall of Fame tonight.
He is married to U of D Jesuit College Counselor Holly Bennetts and has five children – Geoff, Chad, Mackenzie, Asher, and Ellery.
Joe Beldyga '69
Hometown: Detroit, MI
The voice is distinctive. It’s a voice made for radio and commercial voiceovers, heard during U of D Jesuit football games and Catholic League championships. But behind the voice, there is a coaching career and legacy that goes beyond anything said over the PA on a Friday night.
Joe Beldyga came to U of D Jesuit as a freshman in 1965 from the part of Detroit known as “Poletown”, and in a sense, U of D Jesuit hasn’t left Beldyga. As a student, he participated in intramurals and will readily admit that “math wasn’t his thing.” He fondly remembers the thunderous ovation Bob and Nan Tiernan received in the gym at the time of their retirement.
Beldyga had already been doing stats for then-Head Football coach Lou Offer when he returned to U of D Jesuit in February 1979 as a teacher in the Jesuit Academy. Outside of a two year “hiatus”, Beldyga would spend over 15 years teaching 7th and 8th graders, before transitioning into the high school, where he still teaches today. One of Beldyga’s early teaching distinctions was teaching with and learning from the original Jesuit Academy legend, the late Sam Hall.
Beldyga began coaching at U of D Jesuit in 1984, when he took the duties of Academy basketball coach. The following spring, Beldyga would start a 25 year career as part of the U of D Jesuit track program, first as an assistant under then-Head Track coach Jerry Myszkowski ’67. In 1990, Beldyga also assumed the duties as the Academy Track Head Coach, and proceeded to win the Catholic Youth Organization (CYO) championship four times in five years (1990, 1992-94). Beldyga was also a member of the track staff when the team won the Central Division titles from 1991-1993, the Catholic League title in 1991, and the Class B Track state championship in 1993.
After Myszkowski stepped down as coach of the cross country and track teams at U of D Jesuit in 1994, Beldyga was chosen by then-Athletic Director Lou Offer to coach both sports. As head coach of the cross country team, Beldyga won the 2004 Catholic League championship, the school’s first since 1964, and regional titles in 2001-2005 and 2011. As head coach of the track team, Beldyga won Catholic League titles in 2002-2006 and regional titles in 2000-2006. He also won the Catholic League Coach of the Year award in cross country in 2004 and Coach of the Year award in track from 2002-2006. For his coaching accomplishments, Beldyga was inducted into the Catholic League Hall of Fame in 2003. Beldyga retired as Head Track coach in 2009. He has continued coaching Cross Country through the 2014 season.
As if all of Beldyga’s coaching accomplishments at U of D Jesuit weren’t enough, he has also been coaching at St. Clare of Montefalco, a parish and school very near and dear to his heart, since 1975. He has coached both track and field and basketball at St. Clare of Montefalco, winning CYO titles in both sports.
Connor Barwin '05
Hometown: Hazel Park, MI
Memorable Moment: “Catching the game winning touchdown pass against Orchard Lake St. Mary’s on Homecoming my junior year.”
“Athletically gifted” would be the most appropriate term to describe Connor Barwin, a student-athlete who performed at a high level on both the football field and the basketball court.
Barwin came to U of D Jesuit in the Academy in 1999, following the footsteps of his three older brothers, Sean ‘00, Joseph ‘01, and Patrick (Sully) ’03. During his time at the High, Barwin played on the varsity football and basketball teams for three seasons, earning All-State and All-Catholic honors his senior year in football and All-Catholic honors in basketball. He was part of a Central Division Championship basketball team in 2003 and a district championship basketball team in 2004, the school’s first district title since 1993. For his accomplishments, Barwin was selected the Richard D. Hall “Athlete of the Year” by his classmates.
Barwin would go on to earn a football scholarship at the University of Cincinnati, initially as a tight end, but was moved to defensive line his senior year and blossomed into an All-American defensive end. During his career at Cincinnati, Barwin would catch 53 passes for 692 yards and six touchdowns, record 66 tackles, 18 tackles for losses, and 12 sacks, which ranked third on the school’s single-season list. Barwin also walked onto the basketball team at Cincinnati, and saw action in 39 games during his two year stint with the team.
After his sensational senior season, the Houston Texans drafted Barwin in the second round, where he spent four seasons, before signing with the Philadelphia Eagles in 2013 as a free agent.
Barwin has received considerable notoriety for his community service work, and living out the “Men for Others” motto in a real way. He, along with his mother, Margaret Bailey, started the “Make The World Better” (MTWB), a non-profit dedicated to “raising funds through innovative and creative ways”, believing that communities prosper when young people have access to athletics and the arts. They hope to bring the local community together to achieve the goals of MTWB – access for every child to play spaces that are fun, educational, and safe. The first project for MTWB is the revitalization of Ralph Brooks Park in Barwin’s neighborhood in the south section of Philadelphia.
Ryan Alexander '02
Hometown: Southfield, MI
Memorable Moments: “1998 – Winning the semi-final game in overtime at Keyworth and 2001 – the entire playoff run to the championship. I had, what we discovered later, a broken ankle. Just getting to have a chance to play in spite of the injury was such a special experience.”
Ryan Alexander came to U of D Jesuit, following his brothers: Jason ’97, Shawn ’98, and Vincent ’99, each one an accomplished athlete in their own right. Ryan graduated from the High, leaving a legacy all of his own.
Alexander was a part of the varsity soccer team at U of D Jesuit, starting his freshman year. During the next four years, the Cubs would win two district titles, two regional titles, a Catholic League championship, and the ultimate prize, a state championship in 2001.
“Ryan wasn’t a huge goal scorer, but he was a big time player who played his best in big time games and could take over in an instant,” says U of D Jesuit soccer coach Kevin Tuite, who coached Alexander for three years. “He came up huge his senior year and was one of the biggest reasons why we won the state title in 2001.”
For his accomplishments on the soccer pitch, Alexander was named to the All-District team four times, All-Catholic and All-State three times, and named Michigan’s Mr. Soccer in 2001. Alexander was also named a Parade All-American and the Gatorade “Player of the Year” in 2001, and represented the U-17 and U-18 US National soccer teams.
Alexander also earned two varsity letters in both basketball and track during his time at the High and was part of the school record 4x100 Meter relay team. The U of D Jesuit track teams during Alexander’s time on the team, won regional titles in 2000 and 2001.
After graduating from U of D Jesuit, Alexander played soccer for two seasons at Wake Forest, before transferring to the University of Michigan and playing the final two seasons for the Maize and Blue. In his senior season, Alexander was the leading point scorer for the Wolverines.
After graduating from the University of Michigan in December 2005, Alexander went on to play professional soccer abroad in France, Sweden, Switzerland, and Romania through 2008. After his professional career, Alexander settled down in the Washington, D.C. area where he is the Head Woman’s Soccer coach at Sidwell Friends School and also runs an automotive dealership.
Alexander and his wife, Erica, have two children – Genevieve and Amelia.
Tom Coyne '62 (Distinguished Service)
In the spring of 1968, Tom Coyne ’62 was at U of D (College) working on the third year of a two year master's thesis and as he would describe it, “not doing well.” He had heard that a Jesuit who he never had at The High had died and was lying in state at the school. For whatever reason, one he describes as “one of God's coincidences when he wishes to remain anonymous,” he went over. He had not been back to his old stomping grounds for six years.
Sometime at the start of his second year as a faculty member, the Football coach Frank Buford asked him to become a "trainer." They taught him how to tape, bandage and ice the players. In those days, before certified athletic trainers, having an adult overlooking injuries and making sure injured players got to a doctor when needed was a huge advantage for any sports program. The job grew on him.
Soon aside from his teaching duties, Tom became the trainer for all sports. He picked up the chalk, lined the fields, set up for games, drove the bus, and washed all of the uniforms. Tom was the first in the locker room each day. The “cage” as it used to be known had a washer and dryer. He did it all.
He would set up for basketball games, line the track (cinder and chalk back then) for meets, host football dinners after games, helped with the track picnic, went over to Peterson Field to line the diamond and put out bases. He maintained the basketball scoreboard and kept stats for both Varsity and JV games for a couple of years. Tom was at school seven days a week, throughout the school year without repose.
There was an arrangement with old Doc Wagner. Tom could call his office anytime and they would arrange for X-rays at a clinic on Greenfield. “I would take the athlete over, get the x-rays, call the doctor and we would have the report done before the student went home. I even called the parents.”'
"We had one security guard at the time. The coaches or a member of the staff had to remain until the last athlete was out. We had to mop the locker rooms during practice when the janitor did not show up. We would drive over and exchange films during practice so the coaches could keep working with the players.”
During Dan Hafner's coaching tenure, there were several students who didn't have cars. Tom and Dan became a two man shuttle service. One night Dan would take the east side and Tom would take west side. The next day they would switch. Neither would ever ask the students for a thing.
He had to stop many of his extra duties to take care of Dad and his sister with special needs, Sharon. At school, he continued to teach biology, some chemistry, and honors biochemistry. During what he calls “the bad years” Tom helped run the old concession stand at the Bingo Sundays. For twenty-two years he went up north in the summer camping with the students as part of the Voyageur Wilderness Program. His brother John was available to watch their sister Sharon for the ten day camp. After his father passed away in 1984 he ran the program for a few more years. He had always been active on retreats and served for many years on the faculty and staff salary committee.
In Tom’s own words, “[U of D] has been a real blessing for me. I developed a new family, loved my kids, and was needed. Knowing the coaches and their families growing up was phenomenal. God arranged for many other coincidences over those years. My sister Sharon was allowed to come and sit in my classroom. The students, faculty, staff, parents, and alumni treated here like a queen. She LOVED it."
Tom passed away on December 28, 2014.