Here are some thoughts on the Dillon experience of [1959]. We won the campus championship. The game could not be played in the stadium because it was being torn up and replaced. Cartier Field was the venue. We were the last team to play the Michigan City State prison team. Going through the prison, brief associations with the prisoners who lines the sidelines, and then hearing the prison doors clank closing as we were leaving was a dramatic moment. I think we won but not sure of that. The field was less than 110 yards which called for some readjustments on kick offs. 1959 was an unusual year in that scholarship players who were cut by the new coach Joe Kuharich were allowed to play. The 4–0 record may be correct. We did not lose but the number of games eludes me.

The team was coached by Dan Griffith a scholarship player who had ended his career with an injury. He was a good man. Here are some of the players I remember — Paul Fleming, Steve LaRue, Dennis O Shaughnessy, Cibber Corcoran, Dickey Beale, Charlie Hoffman, George Brennan, Hightower(?). Dillon now refers to itself as Big Red. We wore yellow jerseys. Since Indiana forbad sales of alcohol on Sundays, my friends and I celebrated a "Win" Saturday night at Frankies where a number of teammates could be found. I played halfback and safety, for better or worse. Beale was the Quarterback , LaRue , a halfback. Others mentioned above played in the line, as did Bob Coyle Who I forgot to mention above.

Several months ago I found a small jewelry box in in an old ND laundry bag. I couldn't imagine what was in it. On opening it was a gold football which could be strung on a neck chain or attached to a charm bracelet. On it was the inscription "Interhall". I believe this was our reward for winning the campus title.

If you would like more info I believe I could come up with a few more insights. At 85!

Received 21 April 2024.