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New Book Bordentown Military Institute (BMI) 'Treasure on the Delaware' Will be released in July 2011!
2010-06-15
WWBD: Below is a part of the new book about the old prep school that once dominated prep football in New Jersey!.
Introduction:
The history of this once proud institution for learning and military preparedness is finally be written about in a novel. The novel will tell a true story of a strong football program, a military school in a very historical community. All this during a time in American history that could not be in much more turmoil than during the mid to late sixties.
In 1968 Viet Nam was at its height. Long hair was growing faster than the flu that would close the prep school two weeks before Christmas holidays.
Assassinations, riots, war demonstrations, hard rock, was affecting the youth of the children of the 'Greatest Generation' all across the nation. The teachers and military personnel who ran Bordentown Military Institute (BMI) were beginning to consider bending the rules just to keep the enrollment up to a break even point.
Like many private schools of that day, they had not prepared for the hard financial times. The word 'endowment' had not yet been introduced to schools at that level.
BMI was a school that opened in 1882, How could it ever have any difficulties financially? They must have wealthy and loyal alumnus ready to contribute on a dime.? The community must be behind the school? They have saved for a rainy day. Unfortunately all these questions have 'no' for an answer.
Whether the school survives and continues because some rich industrialist alumnus steps up to the plate is not what this book is about.
The BMI students who heard about the treasures of 'Elba' and read the 'Count of Monte Christo' and were well aware that Joseph Bonaparte, Napoleon's brother, is what this book is about. That the once King of Spain had lived just a short distance down the road at Crosswick and his treasure was of much more importance to certain BMI students. That certain students enrolled for one reason only and it was not to play football was fact. Few at the school knew of the families of BMI cadets who had grandfathers, fathers as well as brothers attend BMI and now it was there turn to carry out the search. It was a very well kept secret that only a few teachers and administrators were a part of themselves. It all came down to a fact. Bonaparte had brought over millions in treasures from Europe to 'Pointe Breeze' and only a portion went back.
These families knew Bonaparte purchased the estate of Stephen Sayre called 'Pointe Breeze' in area known as Crosswick, right where the Delaware River and the Crosswick Creek meet. The huge home stood tall to the East of the River with a careful eye on any marauders, who may be after the hidden treasures brought back from France by ex patriots.
What makes this story so interesting is the fact that several of the alumni of those classes of 1968, 1969, and 1970, became multi millionaires at an early age. Finally, the book investigates what took place on those lonely nights in Bordentown during the months of November of 1968 through May of 1969. It tells of the search for the tunnels that are to this day being excavated at nearby Divine Word Seminary.
It tells of the battalion made up of young military men and boys being commanded by Cliff Haas. The books spends much text discussing the powerful football teams and the 22 players who received full football scholarships to universities across the nation in 1969. It talks of the many legendary football stars who attended BMI and not only went on to become All-American college stars but NFl Hall of Famers.
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Chapter 1
Bonaparte
The hazy mist came off the Delaware as Joseph Bonaparte stood admiring his recent purchase; 'a palace it is not to be, but to those who surround me, it might as well be a castle'. Joseph was taller than his brother Napoleon but he too held himself above all others that live in this land named by no less by an Italian.
Joseph was a stocky built man who preferred the name 'Comte de Survilliers' when he purchased the mansion from Stephen Sayre in 1817. It took him close to two years to sculpture the home and to move from Trenton down the short 8 miles or so to 'Pointe Breeze' the name he gave to his summer home.
Joseph Bonaparte came to the Colonies from London a man in disgrace. He had been imprisoned in the famed Tower of London. He had been accused of the most awful of crimes, one of high-treason!
It was no secret that Joseph had supported secretly, a private cause to free his native country. He was arrested by an officer and acquaintance of his and a member the Royal Guard. All this before he could carry out any of his acts of sedition.
A man with friends in high places can find his way out of the tower. He was eventually acquitted, but he was a man in ruin. With little options in Europe he made his only chess move. Joseph ventured to the colonies and became a secretary for none other than Dr. Benjamin Franklin.
Bonaparte would live at Pointe Breeze, off and on, until July 1832, when he would sail back to England. He returned once more in 1837 seven years before his death in 1844.
It is said to be held in truth that much wealth passed through, to the sides, and below 'Pointe Breeze'. The tunnels Bonaparte had burrowed for he and his family to elude assassins secretly sent from Europe to kill him are fact. Whether these pluggers were ever sent is not known, but his fear of being captured, or worse tortured, encouraged him to have tunnels dug all throughout his estate. These underground passages ran down to Bordentown and as far up as Trenton, NJ all leading to the Delaware River.
Chapter 2
Bordentown, New Jersey
August in Bordentown, NJ is historically a hot month. The smell of the honey suckles growing on the broken fence behind the White House combined with the slamming of car doors, voices of adults calling out to their sons, is the tell tale sign that another academic year at the old Bordentown Military School is underway.
The parents along with their sons were lugging their black wooden lockers filled with socks and underwear and probably a few small bottles of Jack Daniels up the dorm stairs. The parents for the most part were clueless or it should be said ignorant to the fact George Washington might just have actually laid his butt to rest for the night in their sons room.
Bordentown was erected high above cliffs over the Delaware River long before there was ever a thought of United States of America.
Thomas Farnsworth, a Quaker, was credited with being the first person to settle in the area. He settled here in 1682 and was followed by merchants who would trade from his small seaport store constructed along the beautiful blue river moving toward the Delaware Bay for millions of years.
In 1717 Thomas Borden whom the town would be named for, joined the small group of growing settlers, and by 1740 Borden with some investors built a rail line from New York to Philadelphia. This rail line would carry freight as well as passengers along this new developing corridor. A tragic accident killed Borden when he was hit by a train and is buried in Bordentown near the train station. His foresight however paid off as the point where Bordentown protrudes into the river has the shortest overland route to South Amboy. This new commercial port succeeded and led to the continued development of the town.
Whether it was luck or the gamble of Thomas Borden, Bordentown would play a very important role in the formation of the new country.
Bordentown became so well known it was became home for many of the most well known names of the era that would become known as the 'Revolutionary Period of the 13 Original Colonies'.
Residents such as Francis Hopkinson, Clara Barton, and Thomas Paine were only a few names of the most notable people of that time period. Fame also brought with it danger and in 1778 the town was destroyed by the mercenary Hessians who destroyed the town for aiding in the Revolution.
Bordentown was a town made up of patriots and after the Colonies finally defeated the British and the war ended the town was rebuilt and grew to be a quaint and historical community.
Now as the fathers gave their hand shakes and the mothers their kisses and drove away the bugle could be heard off in the distance.
Chapter 3
Bordentown Military Institute, BMI
When the wild west was at its peak and Chester Arthur was President of the 38 United States, Bordentown Military Institute was born. The new military school was started by Rev. William Bowen. The Reverend purchased the old Spring Female Villa Seminary building in 1882 and converted it to a military school. In 1885 Colonel Thomas H. Landon was appointed to run the school.
The largest and most notable dormitory on the campus is named in his honor 'Landon Hall'. Other dorms are actually very interesting and very historic homes. The Hopp House named in honor of Joseph Hopkinson son of a signer of the Declaration of Independence. When he lived in the home it was a ammo store. He supplied arms by either selling or giving weapons to the patriots. In the sixties students would find old wine bottles buried in the back yard of the home from way back in the 1800's. The BMI campus was literally a cemetery of relics from the Revolution. Whether you were assigned to live in the Hopp House, the White House, new Landon Hall or one of the old building that was converted into rooms for the cadets you were part of history.
The Old Main which was the main building and the heart and soul of BMI was also a dorm as well as a cafeteria, classrooms, gym, library, offices, assembly room and were every cadet lined up three times a day for roll call.
To be continued!
The writer has only given us short clips and notes to use.
Chapter 4 'The Team'
The automobiles had been pulling in and leaving all morning long. It was another opening day for Bordentown Military Institute (BMI) where they have the football players report early for double sessions. The registration had been completed back in June by mail. Now it was reporting day and without doubt there were many nervous stomachs on the relatively small campus.
All over the BMI campus small groups of players were meeting for the first time. Some knew one another and others were completely alone for the first time in their lives. The school administration had brought back volunteers students from the institution to assist with the transformation of these athletes from civilian to military life.
This was a sensitive situation because it was not the army or navy. If a kid wanted to leave they just had to walk away. There parents might be angry, but there would be no time in the brig.
They could eventually face another issue with Viet Nam going on. There was always the possibility of a draft notice in a month or so. It was rare to have anyone leave to go home.
It was close to noon and at the top of the steps of the Old Main a group of old friends had gathered.
At the same time a new cadet by the name of Michael Flannery walked up the stairs. 'Can one of you fellows help me?'
Flannery was a tall well built young man 6-5, 245 lbs. who looked like a professional weight lifter with short blond hair.
'Excuse me!' Do you guys know where we are suppose to meet for lunch?'
'I don't think I know your name?
The voice came out of a group of big stocky BMI football players who were being held over from the previous year. They were known as 2 year PG's. It stood for Post Graduates who were basically left back. They were not retained because of academic issues but in many cases for the coaches advantage.
'My Name is Walt, Walt Sapp!'
Before Walt could say another word a lanky fellow with a New England accent spoke to Walt.
'Watch what you say Walt! This guy looks like he could kick your ass!'
They all laughed as the big dude came over and shook each persons hand.
'My name is Mike Flannery from Essex Catholic!' I am actually from Bloomfield.'
Not one of the guys knew what he was talking about.
Almost every guy in the group had never heard of Essex Catholic or Bloomfield. Fortunately a player by the name of Andy from Hackensack, NJ knew what he was talking about. Andy was more concerned about how big this guy was and what position he was playing.
Andy without any hesitation asked?
'Hey big guy! What position do you play?'
'Tackle!' But I will play what ever position Coach Luisi wants me to play.'
Flannery was not intimidated by the large group at all and went on.
'But seriously do you guys know where we are suppose to meet for lunch?'
Sapp could not control himself!
'He is hungry already!'
They all laughed out loud!
Sapp concerned he might have hurt Flannery's feeling said:
'Before we go inside let me introduce you to everyone.'
Sapp was strong, stocky, and built low to the ground. He was not a small person, around six one in height, and weighed close to 240 lbs.
He had played the previous year, but, Coach Luisi felt he needed another year of experience of football and school to be ready to be offered a full scholarship.
Many former players and alumni felt Luisi always wanted to hold a few players back for the next season, that way he would be sure of a solid nucleus for the next years team. Another benefit of having older post graduates with BMI experience was he knew they would tell the stories about his vicious and lengthy practices and tough on and off the field tactics.
Luisi enjoyed that reputation. He was a former BMI player himself, and a University of Delaware football star, he understood what it took to be successful in football, especially at the college level.
In 1968 he held back six outstanding players,
Walt Sapp, Turtle Creek, in Allegheny County, PA, truly the top recruiting ground in the nation. Paul Boudreau, 6-3 235 lbs., from Arlington, MA, Boudreau could play both offense and defense and was one of the top New England recruits in the nation. Andrew Michaelian, 6-2 255 lbs., Hackensack, NJ, Michaelian was one of Bergen Counties finest players in 1966, Chuck Boniti, an All -Prep linebacker and guard at 6-2 235 lbs., West Virginia, Buddy Mollema, 6-0 215 lbs. punter and linebacker, Midland Park, NJ and Alex Bugda, a super running back, with 4.7 speed, at 6-2 210 lbs., from Hazleton, PA.
Luisi had held over a tough group of players. Actually an exceptional group. He was also bringing in some real studs but recently lost Franco Harris to Penn State. Harris a local product from Rancocas Valley Regional High School in Mount Holly, NJ was going to prep at BMI but was a late signer for Joe Paterno.
In his place Luisi landed all state running back from Pennsylvania, John Kooker a 4.6 forty 210 lbs. 5-10 tailback from Emmaus High School. He also got Bill Dainz a speedster from Neshaminy HS who was to return kicks and play in the secondary. Neshaminy High School was famous for their 59-1-5 record from 1960 to 1964 under Coach John Petercuskie. Getting a player of Dainz caliber was a bonanza for BMI. Paul DiPirro, Clarence, NY, was one of several top New York State star running backs that Luisi had signed. Doug Winslow out of the Albany area stood 6-3 and 230 lbs. to be a tight end. Charles Mitchell a 6-4 235 lbs. also from New York State was recruited to be a tackle and hoped to attend West Point. Dennis Ratchuk from Buffalo, NY a twisting and turning cut back runner who broke the 4.8 mark too. At quarterback he brought down from St. Mary's in Rutherford, NJ all state Farrell Sheridan who could throw and run the football. He also took Bobby Cosentino out of baseball famed Union, NJ. Two players out of legendary Warren Wolfs line up at Brick Township High School, Mike Miller 6-1, 260, and Bob Kroll 6-3 245 lbs., He didn't stop there as he went after big Jim Andrewlavage a tight end and punter from Clifton, High school.
Making sure he had the covered the loss of Franco he took Sheridan's running back from St. Mary's just a stones throw from Clifton, Johnny Kelly 6.2 215 lbs. who had rushed for 1200 yards the past season. Mark Steinberger, from Rutherford, HS a tough guard and linebacker and a member of the 1966 Rutherford State Championship squad.
He also took Bill Cheval from East Rutherford High School as he backed up the tight end position. He kept the recruits coming with more outstanding recruits like Tom Connors another PA star, Frank Conte a slippery running back, and big Mark Ludwikowski out Wyoming Valley West Regional High School who lived in Swoyersville, PA. Ludwikowski a fullback at 6-2 245 lbs.
It had been rumored that the University of Pittsburgh had already offered Ludwikowski and he was rehabilitating a knee injury.
He also had senior running back Doug Palmer from Trenton coming back along with junior Joe Tague. Palmer was tough and strong and had played for several years with the post graduates as he went through his school years at BMI. He was now a senior and ready to make a name for himself. Palmer was clocked at 4.7 and weighed just under 190 lbs.
Luisi had put together a fine team but had a tough schedule ahead with Milford Academy,CT, West Point Prep, Cheshire Academy, CT, Laurelton Prep, Columbian Prep, Williamson Trade School, and East Stroudsburg Junior Varsity to name a few that could block his path to his first undefeated team.
It was tough for Luisi a Vineland, NJ product to follow Al Verdel at BMI. Verdel is the coach who brought down the great running back Floyd Little from New Haven, CT and ran off 33 victories in a row from 1961 thru 1963. That streak would come to an end when Manlius Prep stopped it in the first game of the 1964 season. Floyd Little had also spent two years as a post graduate and then went to Syracuse after turning down Notre Dame at the last moment. Little was influenced by the great Ernie Davis and it was the right decision as he set all new records at Syracuse and garnered All-American honors.
Walt Sapp went on and introduced each player one by one to Flannery. It took only a few minutes of conversation with the old guys, aka 'Group of Six', as they would be known for Flannery to feel comfortable.
Walt then said to Flannery.
'Myron and his wife Anna the cooks I am sure have cooked up a nice lunch for us.'
Then without warning the bugle went off. It was signaling lunch to the cadets, as it was 12 o'clock noon. Boudreau the strong Arlington, Mass player said.
'Get use to it kid. Your going to hear that awful noise for the next nine months, about 6 times a day or more.'
They all laughed and walked into the Old Main together for the first time as a team. Behind them was another large group followed by smaller groups. All looking to fill their empty bellies.
When they made the steep climb down the back stairs to the kitchen and cafeteria the 'Group of Six' separated and broke off into the waiters dressing room. Mike continued on his own and entered a room filled with set tables awaiting the large group of new players. It took only moments for the different groups of young men to find there way to the tables. The school had them set for thirteen at each table with a teacher or some administration person at the head.
The noise in the room grew very loud as all the new cadets were talking to one another. It was obvious that it was making some of the cadets nervous. It didn't take long for that to come to a halt.
At the first table in the El shaped room stood the head of the schools military program. He was also a BMI graduate 1938 and a loyal alumnus to the school. Lieutenant Colonel John Bradman whom every young man had met in the room at some point was seated in his chair in front of his table. When he stood and there was absolute silence. Lieutenant Colonel John Bradman had that mystique about him. He was one of those persons who's reputation preceded him. There was not a cadet in the room who had not heard something about about LTC. John Bradman. Interestingly they were all good things.
The Lieutenant Colonel began to speak.
' Gentlemen, I want to welcome you to Bordentown Military Institute to be part of the 1969 graduating class.' He hesitated a moment and continued.
' Well I hope I haven't prejudged some of you!'
The group all laughed as he went on.
'The hard truth of the matter is that many of you will not be here in June when we hold commencements. I have been here too many years and I have seen all this over and over.'
There was a look of concern on every face in the room. Even the 'Group of Six' who stood at attention in the waiters garb did not smile.
'My goal; however, is to make sure most of you will graduate. You all have the handbook and I hope you have read it and those who have not you better start now. Why? Because I will call you at random and ask you the rules and you better know them by heart.'
The Colonel then turned to his right where another man in a uniform stood at attention.
'Gentlemen I want to introduce to you a special person at BMI. He may be your best friend or your worst enemy. I don't mean to alarm any of you but Sergeant Major Conradi is our dean of discipline. Meaning he is in charge of discipline. If you do not follow orders you will see him. If you end up in my office after seeing him...
The Colonel hesitated and thought carefully his next words.
Well lets say your parents will be picking you up shortly and it will not matter how many touchdowns you scored or tackles you made. I promise you ... up the pike or down the pike, either direction you will be traveling away from here.
Again he hesitated, realizing that he may have gone a little overboard.
'Lets have Sergeant Major say grace!'
The Sergeant Major stood up. He had a very hard looking face. The man was made for this job. Never a smile, or even a look of kindness anywhere.
'Bless us Lord above , and protect these young men who could be in South East Asia fighting like so many others in their age group. Amen.'
Chapter 5
Practice
On August 28th 1968 life was going to change for some fifty plus athletes. Jay Luisi was a coach for the ages. His practices were legendary for those who were involved. For the rest of the world they did not matter.
For the first practice all the players had scrambled to get the best equipment they could muster up. Over all the equioment was in good shape and the helmets were safe. It was not uncommon to have three practices per day in the days before the rest of the students arrived. The period was known or called 'double sessions' or in Luisi's case 'triple sessions'. Water breaks were unheard of at BMI practices. If the marines in the Pacific went without water than why would we expect any?
A practice would begin with a long hike from the rear door of the Old Main with a groups of players bunched together heading northward along the railroad tracks about 75 yards. They would then find an opening on their right and climb up a hill to a town recreation park. The park was a little league field that had a running track and sets of swings for young toddlers.
After crossing the park the players had to find an opening in a fence to cross the last major hurdle.
Once finding the fence opening which led to a pathway into a deep gully which was about a hundred yards wide. We would carefully walk down a steep incline through a rocky and dangerous path to a creek. This was the most dangerous part of the trek to practice. The players had to be very careful not to be hit by Coach Luisi's 1958 dirty white Volkswagen. There was a no name creek that ran under the railroad tracks that had an opening just wide enough for a small car. It was not uncommon for the coach in the VW loaded with managers and practice equipment to come racing through the tunnel. The problem was the players were navigating through the creek by trying to find large rocks to step on to reach dry land without having to practice in soaking wet spikes. In time the players would adjust to the VW and consider it just another hurdle to get to practice.
After wading through the water and ducking the VW we still had to climb a steep hill about 60 yards up grabbing on to trees and poisen ivy bushes to get to the field. If we were not hit by the car, drowned, or suffered serious mountain climbing injuries we would finally make it to practice.
Once up on the field the players would stand in their white practice uniforms and talk to one another if the coaches were not yet there. They had to be careful because out of nowhere the Volkswagen could burst out at any second from the thick overgrown brush that had filled out dense during the hot summer months.
Upon the arrival of the VW and Coach Luisi the players would act as though they were loosening up and would begin moving about.
It must be emphasized that these first few days of practice will be cemented into the memory of these BMI players for the rest of their lives.
As the players look around and observe their surroundings they realize they are on this flat piece of land that does not even have goal posts yet. The first practice the players just stood there apprehensive as hell for what was about to happen. The VW arrives without most players even noticing it as they were more concerned about getting their socks dried.
Jay Luisi not a big man about five foot nine inches with a slim build. He did not waste any time. Coach Luisi calls to a few of the older post graduates to have the team line up to begin calisthenics.
Each player by this point in their careers had performed these exercises over and over each football season since they were ten or eleven years old. Needless to say they all thought they had seen this before but they were to learn a new lesson this morning.
Coach Luisi had instructed Walt Sapp, Chuck Boniti and Buddy Mollema to organize the forty four players along with the assistant coaches to get in lines about seven deep and six or seven across. Each player was spread out about four yards in all directions from the nearest teammate to give them plenty of room between each other.
As the squad watched Sapp, Boniti and Mollema for a signal or a voice command suddenly Sapp yells
'Jumping Jacks! Lets go! Fifty Come on, lets go! One - two - three - four.
Over and over until we had went through the easy fifty Jumping Jacks.
Then on to the next exercise in the morning 85 degree temperature.
'Faster this time! Cherry pick ems'!
Again Sapp yells out.
Fifty lets go!'
We begin again and we all begin to look at one another.
We went through 12 different calisthenics types, jack knives, dips, lunges, windmills, and on and on. Then Sapp yells.
'Get down on all fours!'
We were exhausted beyond belief. As I glanced around I saw several of the heavy players vomiting up their breakfasts all over the field that we were going to have to practice on.
Nothing could have prepared us for this demonstration of incredible conditioning bordering on inhumane treatment.
After about 15 minutes of extensive exercise we got down to the tough drills. Boniti yelled out to us to get down on all fours. All our white jerseys was starting to get completely immersed in our body fluids.
'Are you guys players?'
Boniti let out a scream to get us fired up.
When we all got down on all fours Luisi stepped out in front of the team and he told Sapp, Boniti, and Mollema to get in line with the rest of the team.
Coach Luisi in a loud sharp voice began to speak.
'You fella's know the routine when I move the ball over my head you crawl toward me. To the side you go the way I point the football. You know the routine now lets go!'
The assistant coaches Coach Steve Libro and Wally Stroble were walking between the line of players whispering words of encouragement as they could see we were struggling.
Coach Luisi began to move the ball and we crawled to the left then to the right. He continued as the players were not just grunting but moaning in pain. Libro's and Strobles whispers were now loud shouts of
'Move it!'
They were now policing the players who were falling behind.
'Come toward me! Move faster!'
Coach Luisi had taken over and was really pushing the players.
'Now back'.
He finally hesitated and stopped as players were really beat up.
'What is the matter with you players? I have never had a team so out of shape.'
'Okay! I can see you are not going to do much more of these. Sapp! Boniti! out here again.
It was interesting that he only called Sapp and Boniti
Lead them in up downs!'
Another huge grunt was heard but Luisi ignored it. Sapp and Boniti both physically depleted of energy were trying to stall. They knew the coach from last year and were using every tactic they knew to buy some time.
Sapp asked the coach.
'Coach can I just tie my laces in my cleats?'
'Hurry up!'
Luisi murmured his reply quietly.
Sapp bent over and just the 20 or 30 seconds he bought the team was enough to get most of them back standing. Just about each player had pulled their shirts up to their face to let the 85 degree temperature cool their bodies.
Sapp yelled out.
'Lets go Up Downs!
We are starting at one and we are going to fifty!'
Coach Luisi yells!
'No! No! We are starting at sixty and counting down!'
Boniti and Sapp looked at him as if the devil has tricked them. It was obvious to them that Luisi was running the show. Even though they were somewhat appointed captains for the first practice of the season the coach was making the point he was the boss. Personally none of the players cared but it was obvious that there was a history between the two year post grads and the coach.
The team started the count down and the short rest that Sapp got bought them was enough time to at least look good for the first twenty or so. After the number forty there was no orderly sequence to the exercise. By the time the count got to zero most players laid on the ground in mud from their sweat.
Practice has started at 8 AM sharp as they laid in their sweat it was 8:35. It was hard to believe that a coach would put a team through 35 minutes of calisthenics especially on the first day of practice. Thank God they only wore helmets and shorts but it was still very hard on them.
There was a state law that stated that all high school and prep school teams would not wear regular full equipment until the fourth day of practice.
Luisi stood out in front of the team with his two coaches and as soon as the all the players were standing he called to Sapp
'Take them around! Lets go! Move it!'
The players were in shock as they started to jog but it was better than what they had just gone through. Well so they thought.
Sheridan the quarterback from St. Mary's Rutherford, New Jersey calls out.
'Where are we running to?'
Boudreau the big Mass kid yelled from the pack of players all running along side one another.
' Around that tree up ahead.'
Sheridan says.
'What tree? '
Bugda the returning super running back from Hazleton, PA yells in pain.
'Just keep running and we will see it in about five minutes'
Many of the players thought he was joking but he wasn't. The run was about a mile and a half and the tree they were talking about was a tall Elm tree. It was a very difficult run and many of the players when approaching the tree cut it short. The run back was not too bad as the breeze was in their faces.
Several of the over weight lineman continued to throw up. They would stop and puke right where they were standing. Some just fell to the ground. When the team got back to the area where we had started practice Coach Luisi, Libro, and Stroble were standing waiting for them. They were surrounded by managers who were underclassman dressed in their casual military uniforms. One of the cadets handed Coach Luisi a pad. He stood and looked at it. He waited for every player to return which gave the team time to rest.
When they all had returned and gather around the coach he called off fourteen names.
'Gentlemen some of you did not go around the tree but cut it short. '
He took the sheet and read each players name. There would be a short remark now and then but it did not matter.
When he finished reading the names he said.
'After practice this morning you fourteen slackers will all run the tree again.'
Luisi then said.
Okay gentlemen lets line up again and do it all over again.'
The team got back in their lines where they had just done 35 minutes of calisthenics and started over again right from the beginning.
We had entered hell or the closest place next to it.
The temperature on this August 28th, 1968 was now getting near 90 degrees and it was just after 9 AM.
How could no one had warned us of this coach? There were rumors but no sane person could ever have expecteed this. I felt bad for myself but the over weight players were now just laying on the ground.
Somehow we made it through the second set of calisthenics and the run around the tree. It was something to behold.
It was the truth and after we completed the 2 sets the coach told us that each one of the players on his team would to have run a mile under 8 minutes. Not that day but once we got our pads on before each practice he would send down groups of four to six players at a time to that park we passed through on the way to practice. It was a five lap track for a mile. If you didn't make it you would have to try the next day until you broke the eight minute mark.
What the hell have I got myself into?
Chapter 6
Hit the Showers!
When our first practice came to an end Coach Luisi called us all together.
'Gentlemen! You did good!'
The team was kneeling in total exhaustion with the knowledge in their minds that they had two more sessions to go to complete the first day of practice at this miserable place.
'I know practice was tough today and you knew BMI was not going to be a piece of cake. You are here to develop into top notch players possibly playing at a Syracuse or Notre Dame next Fall. To achieve that goal you must be in the finest condition your bodies can achieve. Many of you did not show up here today ready to play college football.'
He had grasped the attention of the team. Many players were shaking their heads in agreement.
Go in and eat, drink, and get ready for practice this afternoon. Sapp and Boniti stay here!'
The team took off down that side of a small mountain, across that stream, up that next hill across the park down to the tracks, up that 75 yards down the railroad tracks and players getting squeezed between the doorway to get into the locker room to get some water.
There were coolers in the locker room with cups for the players to drink. Other players just stripped down and went right into the showers to get water. The shower room itself was old, dusty, dirty and dilapidated. The shower heads were old and rusted which was not any surprise as the entire school was old and worn out.
The shower room was especially beat with only 8 shower heads and forty something players. Of the eight heads only six worked properly. Water attempted to come out of two of the older heads but with no pressure.
Practice was over and that was all that mattered at that moment.
The running on the field would not compare with the racing up to the assembly room by 6 PM after the team had made it through a second agonizing practice. The seats were not given out by assignment but left open to the new cadets to select their own. Most players had wet heads and aching bodies as they sat at attention along with several other cadets who had arrived early for the enrollment exercises for the new school year.
The room grew very quiet as Colonel John Bradman walked quietly into the room and stepped up on to the wooden platform that serves as a stage for teachers and administrators who would speak to the cadets three times a day.
'Gentlemen! I am proud of every one of you. You all have displayed to me that not only are you showing strong signs of discipline but very tough physical attributes. I know how difficult a day you all had on that practice field. It is not easy but you made it through the long hot day.'
Just about everyone in the assembly room was sitting in amazement listening to their Commander.
'I am also aware that your day is not over. I want one of you young men to come up on this stage and say some words in praise of God.'
A touch of fear spread around the room and the Colonel was well aware of it and did not want to put a young man in a difficult spot. Is there anyone who would like to say something?
No one raised their hands so Colonel Bradman said
'I am sure your lack of interest is due to your fatigue so I will give the first invocation of the year'.
There was a sigh of surprise and thanks that could be heard around the room. A few snickers from the teachers and coaches sitting on the stage. The Colonel stepped up closer to the speaking platform.
'I have sat here as a cadet like you thirty one years ago. I was nervous and scared but like you gentlemen, with hard work and determination you will make it through this school year with pride and excellence. You will not do it alone. You will need your teachers, your coaches, your fellow classmates. You will need even more. Whether you believe in a higher spirit is up to you. I can tell you this. something exists that helps you get through hard times that is not your teacher, coach, roommates or any other person on this campus. It is something spiritual that you can't see but when the year has ended and you are receiving your diploma you will feel its presence. I say Bless You! Now lets go have some dinner.'
The cadets stood up and in order made their way from the assembly room to the steps that led down to the kitchen and cafeteria. On the way down the stairs the cadets could hear the second year guys talking about players from the previous year.
Walt Sapp began talking about Jim Espin and the type of player he was. Andy was talking about a guy named 'Lurch' who was from Rutherford New Jersey and was now at Syracuse University on a full scholarship. Bordentown Military Institute put more players in college on full football scholarships than any other high school or prep school in the nation.
Sapp went on.
Espin was one hell of a lineman.' Immediately Paul Boudreau the Arlington, Mass could not keep quiet.
Walters was huge six foot six two hundred eighty pounds.'
Sapp and Boniti both at once said.
' Espin was unbelievable!'
The younger players going down the stairs listening to their older teammates did not know what they were talking about but if this guy 'Lurch' was a Syracuse University and playing for the 'Orange' it sounded like he may have won the argument.
The room filled up in less than a minute. |
Bruce Campbell of Sea Girt, NJ Develops and Manufacturers New Stand Up Paddle Boards (SUP)! Free Rates For Specialized Boards!
2010-05-18
WWBD:The Worldwide Business Directory has had numerous requests for information on the new company that is manufacturing customized 'Stand Up Paddle Boards' (SUP) for surfing fans worldwide. Sea Girt, NJ is a small town situated along the New Jersey coast and a big summertime resort for young adults from all over the east coast of the United States.
The boards are made to the buyers personal specifications. When we toured the plant where the boards are hand crafted we noticed some boards painted to the customers favorite sports team, college colors, colors of the U. S. Marine Corps., etc.
Well to answer your questions you can contact Bruce Campbell at 732-239-0896 or
Bruce Campbell,Inc. |
Any Companies Interested In Partnering With SICCODE.com Please Click Here!
2007-02-02
The Worldwide Business Directory offers many ways that businesses can find opportunities to work with the thousands of companies that register on siccode.com. If you have any interest in this concept please E-mail me at
info@siccode.com now.
Thank you |
Does Your Company Need Air Freight Services?
Call Associated Global Services at 1 800 648 3150
2006-05-02
Associated Global Services Inc. is the company that The Worldwide Business Directory recommends its 1.5 million members to use globally! We have researched all air freight companies in our system and the one company that our members keep recommending is Associated Global Systems with offices throughout the United States and offers service around the world. They offer a full logistics service and will provide your company with the needs any business requires in the hi-tech world of shipping today. Just call 800 648 3150 and get a quote for your shipments today.
This is not an advertisement! |
How To Determine A Two Way Mirror In A Bathroom or Hotel Etc.!!!
2005-08-17
TWO WAY MIRRORS
I thought it was quite interesting! And I know in about 30 seconds you're
going do what I did and find the nearest mirror.... Often heard about the
interested.
Do you know how to determine if a mirror is 2-way or not? This is not to
scare you, but to make you aware. A policewoman who travels all over the
U.S. and gives seminars and techniques for businesswomen passed
this on.
When we visit toilets, bathrooms, hotel rooms, changing rooms, etc.,
how many of you know for sure that the seemingly ordinary mirror
they can see you, But you can't see them)? There have been many cases
of people installing 2-way mirrors in female changing rooms. It is very
difficult to positively identify the surface by just looking at it.
So, how do we determine with any amount of certainty what type of
mirror we are looking at? Just conduct this simple test:
Place the tip of your fingernail against the reflective surface and if
there is a GAP between your fingernail and the image of the nail, then
it is a GENUINE mirror.
However, if your fingernail DIRECTLY TOUCHES the image of your nail,
then BEWARE, FOR IT IS a 2-WAY MIRROR!
'No Space, Leave the Place' So remember, every time you see a Mirror,
do the 'fingernail test.' It doesn't cost you anything.
Remember: 'No Space, Leave the Place'
Ladies: Share this with your girlfriends, sisters, daughters, etc.
Men: Share this with your wives, daughters-in law, mothers, girlfriends
and/or friends.
And to my friends...please pass this mail on to all your online
friends.
Remember: 'No Space, Leave the Place' -- Better safe than sorry
However always be aware of the possibility of camera's in vents and smoke detectors. On the floor etc. It is a very filthy world out there!!! |
FOX
'The Sign Of The Devil'
F = 6
O = 15 (1+5) = 6
X = 24 (2+4)= 6
666 THE DEVIL!!!
2005-06-30
People have been writing in asking about the sign of the devil using the 666 number. It makes you think when you read the calculations on the home page. |
Former And High School And College Football Players Make Sure You click Here!!
2002-03-11
Just what you have been waiting for! That right! Those old games films you thought had been lost or destroyed have been saved. That's right! We have them in our inventory so please come to our site and choose from a huge selection. Footballvideos.com has over 40,000 game films to choose from. The perfect present for your family members or even your boss! Come visit the site and take a look at all our games and make sure you tell them that you saw this on www.siccode.com. |
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