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Remembering Bo
The following recollections have been submitted by M Club Members and others that, at some point in their life, were touched by Bo Schembechler. If you'd like to share your thoughts about Bo, please send an email to rememberingbo@letterwinnersmclub.com with the subject line "Remembering Bo."
I had the distinct privilege of being a student manager from 1973-76. Those years represented some of the finest Wolverine football teams in the height of the U-M/OSU rivalry. When we tied OSU 10-10 in 1973 and were not voted to the Rose Bowl, Bo demonstrated his commitment to his players because he felt that they, not he, had been cheated out of an opportunity. He always put his players ahead of himself. His ego was most satisfied when he saw his players become successful professionals and raise their families the right way while giving back to their communities. There isn't a day that goes by that I don't think of a lesson that I learned from Bo, about teamwork, leadership, integrity and loyalty. To this day, my closest friends are my teammates from those years and outside of my parents, the person who had the greatest impact on me was Bo.
Robert I. Brown
I remember fondly the one and only time I "met" Coach Schembechler. At Michigan in the 70s, the football team used the infield of our indoor track facility for winter conditioning and drills. A track teammate and I were coming in from a winter run when we encountered members of the team and managers exiting the facility. We briefly got in the way and suddenly found ourselves face-to-face with the Great One, who regarded us with stern visage and arms folded across his chest, and barked, "Make some room, men."
My teammate and I turned and looked at each other, and we two skinny little track guys blurted out as one: "He called us ' men !'" It was probably the highlight of our athletic careers at Michigan.
Bob Maistros, Class of 1978
This is in honor of who he truly was.
I am, I was, I will be
I am what I always was
I was for you
I am at peace
Melinda Copp Harrison
Approximately 8-9 years ago, when my son was 7 years old, we bumped into Bo at the M golf course in between nines. My son had holed a 60-yard shot on #3. When I told Bo what he had done, without missing a beat, Bo told my son in his usual gruff voice: Great shot, kid. You must have got your athletic talent from your mother...."
Steve Fishman
Everyone who played for Bo knows the “Yardstick Slaps” during special team drills, Bo as the “Star Player” running the ball or catching it with his M-Hat turned backwards as he spikes the ball for that Great Touchdown or hearing Bo say, “Gentlemen if we've got to fight in the North Atlantic, we're going to Practice in the North Atlantic” and we'd proceeded to practice outside when our indoor building was so inviting and his final words prior to departing for an away game, “I'm bring 65 Fight'en Sum-a-Bitches to take that place over”! But some may not know him after your playing days were over and you graduated, he was your friend and would treat you like a son. I'm sure many of you know what I'm talking about and that is truly the memory I will cherish the most….and miss.
Tim Schulte
Rest in Peace and Go Blue!
I first met Bo in 1974 when I worked with some of the football players who were in the College of Engineering. Curtis Tucker was one of those students, as was Jim Hall. But what I remember most was when I had the opporotunity to bring Astronaut Charles F. Bolden, Jr. down to meet Bo. Charlie B. is a retired Marine Corps General now, and both he and Bo were thrilled to meet each other. Another significant event was when I went down to the School of Education to pick Bo up for a luncheon at the College of Engineering. To hear him speak to the future teachers was the most incredible thing I've ever heard. You see, I was used to "Coach Bo" and had never heard him speak to a group of "non-football" people. He was truly fantastic. There's no one like him.
anne w. monterio
Doug Skene
I was a second stringer, with much better talent ahead of me and I was okay with that because Bo made the program the star. It didn't matter if you were a walk on from Topeka are a star from Massilon, you were treated the same.
"I quit!" Those were my words that I said to Coach Carr when we returned from Hawaii after securing a bid to the Rose Bowl.
It was the first day of bowl conditioning, and ostensibly the best time of any player's life, but I was already packing my bags. You see, my dad had gone missing. We had no idea where he was or if he was alive. I had two young twin sisters at home and I knew that there was no way my mother could make it on her own. I was done.
"Bo is pissed and he wants to see you." Those were the words out of Coach Carr's mouth that day on the field. After practice, Lloyd escorted me into Bo's office and I was stunned to find out how they knew what was going on in my head.
You see, prior to every game, Bo gives the greatest pep talks ever. As is, I was sitting in the back of the locker room during one of those pep talks with my head down and thinking about anything and everything - but the game. Clearly Bo wouldn't notice, I was just a special teams player. No way he would give a shit about a sophomore punk putting on a pity party for himself.
Boy was I wrong! Coach Carr made it clear that afternoon back in Ann Arbor that I was in the proverbial doghouse with the old man simply because when he was givng his "piss and vinegar" speech I was burying my face in my hand hands wondering were my father was. When in reality my "father" was standing in front of me.
The moment I sat in front of Bo I knew I was safe. He opened his heart as if he just called an off tackle play with Jamie Morris scoring a touchdown.
He knew my father from recruiting, and he liked my pop. His first concern was that of my mother. "Is she alright" "What can we do for her?" Furthmore, "Son, what can we do for you?"
For five months, I was lost, my whole sophomore season gone. I could have cared less. Those words out of Bo's mouth made everything disappear. I wept and those two men enveloped me in their arms and made everything all right. Bo's grip on me was far more than a coach and a player. That is the same grip that has carried me through life. "There is no quitting in life, son!"
I can not say more about this man. I love him and don't have any compunction about telling everybody I know how special he was in my life. Tommorow's game is merely a game. When all is said and done, ten...fifteen years from now, win or lose I can only say that I am Proud to be a "Michigan Man"
With a heavy heart,
Keith Mitchell '88
I had the great honor and privilege of playing (1971,1972,1973) and coaching (1975-1986) at Michigan under Coach Bo Schembechler. There is not a day that goes by when I do not rely on the lessons Coach Schembechler taught me. I loved and revered him. He was a man of tremendous ability, intelligence and passion. He loved and believed in young people. He cared deeply about his players. He carried copies of his players transcripts in his briefcase. He knew their hopes, dreams and aspirations. He was dedicted to seeing his players succeed. He was remarkable in every way.
M Go Blue, M Go Bo, Bob Thornbladh
Bo always had a kind word for us "track" guys.
Aaron Gordon, '48-'52
To my fellow teammates and letterwinners,
Bo was a great influence on my life. His will to not only be the best, but doing it with integrity, dedication, and humility set the pattern for many of us to follow. “Those who stay will be Champions” was the sign posted up in the locker room that many of us now understand. Staying the course and being the best at what you can be has been the way I've lived since leaving the U of M. I have talked with many former teammates and found that some of the best times we had were during moments that we all rattled off stories of “Bo” and what he meant to each of us. His legacy will live on through his players, family and friends.
Sanford Washington #49 !!GO BLUE!! Class of 82'
After Bo's first heart attack while in California for the 1970 Rose Bowl, he took up swimming as a form of exercise. He came over to the Matt Mann pool for those sessions. As all of you know, the status quo was never good enough for Bo and his swimming abilities at the time needed some work. We were fortunate to be able to give Bo some tips on his stroke and help him improve his swimming workouts. He was always gracious and eager to learn and improve.
Don Peterson, Swimming '73
Bo taught me how to respect tradition, honor and the responsibility of being a MAN. My time under the watchful eye of Bo was the greatest 4 years of my life. We will miss what you stood for with no comprimise.
Love you Bo.
Jim Smith 1973-1977
Mike Lantry 1971-74
Dear Bo's family and all M-Clubbers:
I was not a football player at Michigan but I did manage to win two varsity letters as the broad jumper on Don Canham's track team. Don Canham remained my friend for life, as I saw him every once in awhile. Being a member of Michigan's long athletic history in my own small way has meant a great deal to me over the years. My very sincere best wishes to BO's family. I did not know BO but I have always appreciated forthright types!
Bill Michaels Basking Ridge, NJ
After Bo won a Rose Bowl, there was a football banquet at the Bonaventure Hotel in downtown Los Angeles. One of the people at our table knew Bo and intorduced me and another Michigan man. We had our pictures taken with Bo and he gave us each a cigar. I still have both. We had a wonderful 10-minute conversation that I will always remember.
Dale Jensen, Tennis 56 and 57, NCAA Championship
Dear Fellow Letterwinners,
Graduating in '59, while sadly I never had the honor of playing for Bo I did have the privilege of playing for and being schooled by the great Bennie Oosterbaan. I write this tribute today upon hearing of Bo's passing simply because his towering presence and positivist philosophy greatly bettered my life just as he did to so many other believers in the impossible dream. During the evolving TV era Bo and his Michigan teams represented a message that the great books provided when I grew up. I was a dreamer raised in history-soaked Ohio during a period of America testing itself and trusting its credo. Michigan with its academic prestige and storied football tradition was just the place for a Toledo kid to prepare for Life's journey at Ferry Field. At this touching moment and on the eve of football history it's no exaggeration to say that except for genes and the culture of my home and my family, Michigan Football was and is the most moving force that makes me an enthusiastic, happy winner in Life.
You see, I owe Bo a special tribute because he proved irrevocably that dreams are for real and not only for children. Behold during my turbulent and formative '60's there's this icon reverently called "Bo". My dream didn't escape it was really there when I woke up after graduation discovering truth, meaning and relevance in the lessons learned with Michigan Football then shown by a gruff voiced, rough edged man you had to respect and love. The intangible stuff of fables and fantasies for kids are the tangible hard core reality we play with daily as grown ups. If dreams tend to tangle, twist and disappear over the years and if the miles we log on Life's road are incalculable, pain studded and difficult Bo reminds us that challenges are a part of everyday life, that a discipline of practice and persistence pays off, that character and values set one apart, that minor matters matter, that game plans are essential and that winning does not depend on who wins and who loses on the scoreboard. And so it was and always will come down to your own Michigan versus Ohio State. Hence, the first words from the mouths of Nan (nee Millies, Michigan B.A., 1965) and my three daughters were "Go Blue"!
Bo's message "Those Who Stay Will Be Champions" hangs over our fireplace, a mini helmet signed by him rests on my desk and my ever present Michigan baseball cap goes as well with jeans or a suit. Twenty-month young grandson Kyle will be raised to the soaring melody of "Hail To The Victors" and to heroic tales about Bennie and Bo, Michigan Football Champions and the wars with Ohio State.
There'll never be another Bo but thanks to him I learned that Life is football and football is Life. Miracles happen. Let others make their own impossible dream come true and may they find Bo's way and means their own lifestyle. Many who never saw Bo's face or knew his name have only him to thank for the difference he made and will make in their lives.
Sincerely, Yours in Blue,
Hugh J. Crossland
As a Michigan fan growing up in California who was constantly homesick, Coach Schembechler and the Wolverines were a wonderful tie to home. For the respect and confidence Coach Schembechler inspired, for all he did for Michigan and Michiganders everywhere: God's speed and rest in peace. Coach Bo always will be Michigan Football, and he will never really be gone because he shall always be carried in our Maize and Blue hearts.
Stephanie Newman
I never had a chance to meet Coach Schembechler. I was a 4-year walk-on who finally lettered my senior year in Track. Early in my career at U-M I hand-wrote a banner and hung it in my room that said "Those who stay will be Champions." I looked at that banner every day and truly believed in its meaning. Those words from Bo, a man I had never met but who was forever linked with Michigan, inspired me to achieve that which as a walk-on I thought was unachievable. Thank you Bo, for all that you meant to the school that I love and to which I will be forever linked.
Rob Frangione, P.E.
I remember Bo for a lot of things, but mostly for his integrity and his compassion for his players and family. He was the type of person who truly walked the talk. No matter what your status, first stringer, demo, Victors Club member or coach, everyone was held to the same standards of excellence. The rules were the same for everyone.
He not only developed great football teams but was very instrumental in the development of young men.
When he appointed Steve Fisher to take over for Bill Freider in the middle of the NCAA tournament, after Freider accepted a position as head coach at Arizona State, that's walking the talk.
Jim Betts
Mindy Rowand-Schmidt 1986-1990 Track and Cross-Country
The memories are too many to isolate any one of them. I worked for him for 8 years and he was the "BEST".......... I will always remember him for his loyalty, his caring and above all his great integrity. The name Bo Schembechler is Michigan and NOT just from the standpoint of Football/Athletics. He has come to be the symbol of the entire University community. Because of his respect, love, admiration and Ambassadorship on behalf of our great institution, he is right up there with the greatest names to ever grace our campus. Thanks Bo.
Dennis Brown
My freshman year, in the late fall of 1972 and the early winter of 1973, Bo would come to Matt Mann pool and swim laps. Gus Stager, Michigan's men's coach, would give him workouts and help with his freestyle technique.
After a morning practice Gus introduced me to Bo. He was very interested and impressed with how hard swimmers trained. He complimented me on how easy it looked and how we all did "flip turns" with no effort. It was really a pleasant conversation. Suddenly, we were facing the record board at Matt Mann, he put his finger in my face. He then began to scold me because he "could not stand to see other schools names holding Michigan pool records".
The previous summer Mark Spitz had won seven gold medals and he held our 200 yard butterfly pool record. Bo told me in no uncertain terms with some salty language, I needed to get his name off the board especially because he swam for Indiana, our arch rival. The 200 fly was not my primary event but I was too scared to tell him. I just nodded, agreed and hurried into the locker room frightened and thrilled at the same time. It was a great experience.
Tom Szuba
I loved Bo Schembechler. I have so many great memories, of the time I spent with him. One of my fondest is the time he told me I had the "worst body, in the history of Michigan Football." I responded by asking, "If I have the worst body in the history of Michigan Football, why do I play so much?" Bo shot back, "Because I'm a hell of a coach."
Another fun memory I have of the "Old Man" was how he used to poke me in the chest and tell me, "James, you're not half the tackle I was." One time I got the courage up to say, "Well Bo, that was because you played for a better coach than I do." Of course, we all know he played for Woody Hayes. He couldn't hold back his laughter.
I loved the story he would tell about when he played for Miami, in the Salad Bowl against Arizona State. Bo said, "I played against a great All American player. He was a big son-of-a-bitch and I kicked his ass." After my playing days were over, I would bring that story up from time to time and Bo would laugh, and say, "I can't believe you guys remember those old stories." How could we forget them?
I remember back in the spring of 1985 when I was a graduate assistant under Bo. I was recently out of school and was rehabbing a dislocated ankle, so Bo put me on the payroll. My duties included getting Bo's lunch, sitting with him while he broke down film, taking his car to get it washed and driving him to the airport. One day I was driving Bo to the airport so he could fly to Columbus and visit Woody, at the request of Woody's wife. She had called Bo and said Woody was not doing very well and she wanted Bo to visit with him.
Bo was talking about Woody. Ironically like we called Bo the "Old Man", that is what he called Woody. Bo was so competitive with Woody, even in those days. He said, "Woody's wife loves me. She always said I'm one of her three favorite people in the world. Cary Grant is number one, Thomas Jefferson is number two, and Bo Schembechler is number three." Bo laughed and said, "Woody, didn't make the top three."
At one of our football reunions, I was sitting and talking with Bo and Alex Agase (like Bo, another one of my heroes) at the clubhouse at the Michigan golf course. Bo was always in charge. He liked to call me "Kentucky Fried", or "Fried" for short. Bo looked at me and commanded, in that gruff voice, "Fried, I want a beer; I want it light; I want it cold; And I want it now!" Of course, I promptly jumped up and went over to the cooler to get the coldest light beer I could find. I couldn't believe I was fetching a beer for the Old Man.
I was thinking the morning Bo died about his talk at the last Michigan Football reunion. There were over 500 former players and coaches in the room. Simply put, Bo was captivating. Bo recounted that after a round of golf he sat on the patio of his condo in Florida. He talked about his health.how bad he felt and how many medications he took every day. His shoulder ached (He reminded us that he was a pretty good baseball pitcher at Miami), he could hardly feel his feet because of his diabetes and in general he felt like crap. But as he watched the sun set over the Gulf of Mexico, and he took a sip from his beer, he said to himself, "I'm the luckiest son-of-a-bitch to have ever lived, to have been the football coach at Michigan." I still get chills when I think about it. I feel like I am just as lucky to have known him.
Rest In Peace Bo. Your legacy will live on forever.
Doug James
Doug Daugherty Michigan Football 1986-90
My two favorite Bo stories:
1. The Friday before we were to play Iowa, he started the meeting by talking about what to expect at Iowa and described the very small pink locker room. Then he asked the question, "Do I have twenty-two guys ready to go and beat Iowa? I only need twenty-two who are willing to beat the player across from them. You don't need to do anything more that that - you guys take care of the player across from you and I'll take care of Hayden Fry." Then, he said, "after you guys do your part and we win the game, lift me up on your shoulders so I can look that big Texan Hayden in the eyes and then I'll punch him in the mouth."
2. Shortly after we opened the indoor practice facility we were inside practicing and I got hit up under my facemask in the nose. I was down on the carpet trying to gather myself, when one of the trainers came over to see if I was OK. Out of the corner of my eye I saw Bo coming toward us - and in the back of my mind I was thinking " Wow, Bo's coming over to see if I am OK. I think I've finally made an impression on him. He really cares." But when I looked up to see him standing above me he said (in only a way he could say it) "Get him off the field - he's bleeding all over my new carpet."
Everyday I understand more what Bo meant about "Those Who Stay Will Be Champions”, During my college years it meant "Big Ten Champions" but now I understand it more as "Champions in Life."
Bo has always been thought of as more than a coach. He taught us more about life and success than football. He was tough, while still compassionate, and stern, yet still had a tremendous sense of humor. Much of who I am today is directly attributed to my four years at Michigan. He can rest comfortably with the knowledge that he affected so many in such a positive way.
The four years I spent with him and his system has provided me with life-long lessons that still motivate me today. I wish I could express it in a more profound way but maybe the best thing to say is "Thanks."
Paul Girgash
We lost a true friend, leader and champion this past week when the man who personified Champions of the West which was coined years ago, died of a heart attack to best tell the story of Michigan and the men who contributed to that legacy over the years. I met Bo in 1975 in an interview for a possible coaching position at my alma mater as an ex-letterwinner from the 50's and was impressed even then in his first six years at the helm in Ann Arbor. But the true story is how he brought back the program from some years of mediocrity to the height it holds today. Bo examplified the true merits of character, integrity, disipline, honesty, effort, and all the other attributes necesary for excellence in all endeavors including the game. He brought forth from those in his stewardship those qualities that put Michigan men above others in their pursuit of excellence in their lives. We will miss the "man of the West"and look back on all those memories that we have been blessed with over the years.
Jerry Leith Larkspur, CA The next day I was waking up in the hospital after surgery to repair my forearm, and Bo came into my room. He visited, told me to hang in there, and soon I would be back out with the team. Five days later in the Sunday meetings, after beating Notre Dame the day before, I was awarded the scout team "player of the week", and he handed me the trophy in front of the team.
John Ferens
Two quick stories about Bo. Back when alumni and letterwinners could help recruit and provide summer jobs, I followed Lynn Evans as the summer jobs coordinator while at General Motors. We placed as many athletes into Plant Security as well as hourly positions as close to Ann Arbor as we could. When I was Director of Labor Relations at the Hydra-matic facility in Willow Run, that was ideal - close to Ann Arbor where they could work and workout. Bo told his kids that they were expected to go to work, be on time, and do a fair day's work and if somebody did not toe the mark, he told me to warn him first and on the second occurrence, let them go. Over the years, Bo referred to me as the President of General Motors, a level that was far removed but appreciated nonetheless.
The other occasion occurred at our annual Letterwinners M Day in June about four or five years ago. For some unknown reason, and I don't think I am color blind, I wore a golf shirt that had a fair amount of green in it. Bo came up to me as I was talking to my golfing teammates, Barry Dehlin, Ken Wright, Keith Spicer, Tom Cecchini, and Tom Brigstock and ripped me for wearing a green shirt. For once in my life, I was speechless and told Bo I would never do that again in Ann Arbor. As many people have stated, when Bo tells you something, you remember it.
Tom Parkhill
My memories of Bo are likely similar to what you’ll hear from many former players. But I wanted to share how incredibly loyal he was even to one of his guys who didn’t have much of an impact as a player.
One could not have any less significant a career as a player than I did. Despite this, Bo was always there and unrelenting in his support of my professional career. He helped me at virtually every major step: getting into medical school, my choice of residency, and even a fellowship – which I would point out was 9 years after I had left Michigan!
Later on, whenever I would run into him again, I would get a little nervous. Partly because I figured he might not remember me, but mostly because I wanted desperately for him to know that I hadn’t let him down. At each of these encounters, he not only amazed me with his memory but he frequently already knew how things were going for me.
What I did for him during my four years at Michigan was minimal, but what he did for me was immeasurable. I will always feel indebted to Bo and forever grateful to have gotten the opportunity to know him.
Go Blue! Kyle Anderson, MD
I'm sure my experience regarding Bo's impact on my life is like many others. As a successful high school football coach, I find myself sharing so many of the things Bo shared with us, many times without even thinking about it. Things like, "...Bo time...5 minutes early", "Those who stay will be champions", "You're either getting better or getting worse", and on and on. The ripple effect of Bo's life continues on through me to many successive generations. I can only hope that I can have the same impact on their lives that Bo has had on mine. The integrity, character, and loyalty that Bo instilled in all of us from our association with him and "The Team" will live on in every Michigan man he
Mike Melnyk, '84
Bo was intense. But beneath that harsh and determined exterior. You could just tell he cared about you. And in the right way too! Things were to be done right. And damn it there was a right way to do it and a wrong way. And not just with football. There was a right way to look at things and regardless of the outcome …. Winning without doing the right thing wasn’t enough. No, you just couldn’t succeed unless that element was there. Couldn’t have one without the other. They were inseparable.
He wasn’t so much of a disciplinarian as he was a principled individual. Principle and character always stood above winning. I’m so happy he was with us and helped lead us and the University. I see all the corruption in collegiate athletics, and people sacrificing character for the almighty win. He wouldn’t stand for it. And that character and “doing it the right way” more than any of the winning record he shared is the deepest legacy he has bestowed upon us.
That’s what makes us Michigan Men and Michigan Women.
I like the idea of a celebration of his life. Yeah, his spirit is still with us. And his spirit was stronger than his body anyway!
Strange aside:
For some odd reason I always remembered him talking to us after the last practice on Friday before the '69 Ohio State game (his first year at Michigan). In a part of his talk he mentioned progress and that we even had a carpet for a playing field and wasn’t that progress.
Sadly the playing field wasn’t so progressive this year at the Ohio State Stadium (his last year at Michigan). The turf made our guys slip all over the field. It’s hard to do sophisticated power movement with a floor that moves. That’s not progress, that was a travesty.
Regardless of both teams playing on the same field, it seemed we did the most slipping. I’ve got a feeling he’s making that point up there, but still proud of the guys who gave it their all, regardless of everything, and showed what Michigan is made of.
Jack Blair
It will be bittersweet to go to his Memorial Service and see all of my old teammates and tell stories of how Bo helped us to grow from boys to men from the impact his life had on us and for years after we left Ann Arbor. He was a true friend and coach to all who were fortunate enough to play for him.
George Lilja Captain for the 1981 Rose Bowl Victory Team
Lawana S. Parks 1975 Letterwinner-Volleyball
I am convinced the importance Bo placed on focused preparation from each of his players was a key to our success. Not only did that approach enable me to contribute to the Big Ten football championship team of 1972, but I know it greatly helped me contribute to the Big Ten basketball championship team of 1974, the NCAA basketball tournament appearances in 1974 & 1975, and my professional basketball career. No person other than Bo better personifies University of Michigan Athletics.
C. J. Kupec
I have known Bo since he arrived on campus in 1969. I was the team physician from 1966 through 1998, along with Dr. Gerald O'Connor. I was with Bo in Pasadena when we diagnosed his first heart attack. I received a call from Millie asking me to stop and see Bo. He had just come back from practice and drank a cold Coke. Millie was concerned about him looking pale and sweating. I concurred that this could be serious. Meanwhile I consulted Dr. O'Connor who had a friend who was a gynecologist and shared an office with an internist. After some arguing, Millie convinced Bo to follow our advice. The result was a normal EKG. O.K. so far, but true in many heart attacks. The next day I was one step behind him all day. Finallly he came up to me after practice and said I know you are worried about me, but I'm okay. I want you and O'Connor to stay at the hotel and have dinner with your wives then come up to the monastery later. We did that and got to the monastery about 9 pm and stopped for a drink with the priests at the priests' house. It was at that point that I became more concerned because the senior priest said "I'm a little concerned about your coach, because he said he had to stop to get his breath on the walk up to the monastery." And then when president Fleming came to talk to the team, Bo sat in the corner of the room with his hands over his face. We then went up to the monastery dormitory and I went down to Bo's room, quietly opened the door and heard him sleeping. The following morning, I went to breakfast and met George Mans and he said he was concerned that Bo was not down. And so I again returned to Bo's room, knocked on the door. There was no answer, so I opened the door and was glad to hear him in the shower. I asked him if he was alright, and his response was " well, I have this ache in my shoulder as if I pitched too much baseball." I again spoke with Dr. O'Connor, and we decided he needed another EKG. With the help of the priests, we arranged for a quick EKG at St. Luke's hospital at the foothills of the mountains. When we arrived at the hospital, they were waiting and an immediate EKG was taken. I immediately told Bo that this was a heart attack, and we needed a cardiologist. He said "no way - what kind of a michigan man are you?" Finally he suggested we get Jim Young and Jerry Hanlon to come down to the hospital. By that time, he was being sedated and probably slept through most of the game. I then went to the game and needed to notify Millie because she was at a V.I.P. luncheon sponsored by Chrysler and by that time all traffic was deadlocked in Pasadena. I gave a motorcyclist $20 to get the message to Millie and she received the message. I also spoke with Chip, and told him he'd have to watch after his little brothers. Bo was in the hospital for three weeks and then Millie called me and asked me to arrange a house call by a cardiologist when they returned to Ann Arbor. I met Bo at the plane when he arrived, and also at his house on several occasions. A problem arose in the fact that the University refused to make house calls, so Millie asked who we recommended at St. Joe's. With Dr. O'Connors help, we enlisted the care of Dr. Rudy Reichert, who remained his cardiologist for many years. President Fleming probably could have overriden the University policy of no house calls, but Millie and Bo did not want to do that. Bo has been my close friend from 1969 until the time of his death. Goodbye, old friend.
Dr. Robert E. Anderson
I participated on a different field than his as a Wolverine, met him only once, and he was officially "retired" from Michigan when I arrived on campus as a freshman in 1990. But the reality is that I went to Michigan because of Bo Schembechler. I grew up in Columbus, Ohio in the shadow of Ohio State. Surrounded by Buckeyes, I developed a passion for the University of Michigan by the time I was nine years old. But I only knew about the University of Michigan because of Michigan Football. And I only knew about Michigan Football because of Bo Schembechler. To a 9-year old Michigan fan in Buckeyeland, he was larger than life. Today, I call myself a "Michigan Man" with great pride. I thank Bo for having the opportunity to do so.
Matthew L. Stout
I was one of Coach Bo's last recruits for the 1989 football season. I had the pleasure of spending only one year with him as a player, but he still has left me with a lifetime of memories. When I was a freshman he was teaching us how to block on punt team and I was his blocking partner. He about knocked me off the stage at the time. He just looked up at me and said "not too bad for an old guy, huh?" It's a small token of his toughness, but throughout my time at Michigan he left a lasting impression on me. I will miss him greatly. Best Regards,
Marc J. Milia MD
Dear Michigan Letterwinners,
I played football for Bump Elliott on the 1965 Rose Bowl Team and although I've lived for many years in California, I've been back in the Ann Arbor Area for 6 years now. I've had the opportunity to interact with Bo on several occasions -- sometimes regarding speaking engagements. Bo was always very warm and engaging and he made you feel as if you were the most important person in his life. He was a special communicator because he was so fond and respectful of people. I remember him saying to me once: " I just love being around football players" and it showed. I heard Bo give a talk on his management style to auto executives and I can honestly say that It was the most sound explanation of practical management principles that I have ever heard. And, it was also the most charismatic and humorous talk that I've heard. There are very few role models that could be put shoulder to shoulder with Bo. I'm so glad to have known him and that he was a Michigan Man. No one was more honest or genuine than Bo and I loved him.
Warm regards, Jerry Mader
A Simple Greeting
I did not have the opportunity to play for Coach Bo Schembechler. My closest encounters were the occasional passing of one another in the athletic office lobby or hallway at a time when all the coaches offices were in the same complex. Bo was always a gracious man that initiated or returned the simple greeting. It was a thrill just to be acknowledged by a man with such strong conviction to the Michigan tradition. It made one feel proud to be a Michigan athlete. I can never recall ever seeing the Coach without a smile on his face. Now some may say that it was a grimace of pure intensity, but looking back, it was always a smile (at least in my mind) of a man that truly enjoyed his passion in life. Could
Those Who Stay Will Be Champions
Now I may have stated that I never had played for Coach Schembechler, but that does not mean I was never coached by Bo Schembechler. For I believe we were all coached in some way or form by a simple yet powerful phrase coined by Bo, "Those Who Stay Will Be Champions." Words that transcend through the spirit of every Michigan athlete. A simple phrase that takes on an even more powerful meaning off the field. For those that stay strive, as Bo had done, to become champions of life.
For this experience, I am truly grateful. My heart and prayers go out to his family, friends, and all that have had the opportunity to play for one of Michigan's greatest legends.
God Bless. Raymond F. Yerkes
I love Bo Schembechler. I miss him. “THE TEAM. THE TEAM. THE TEAM.” and “THOSE WHO STAY WILL BE CHAMPIONS.” aren’t just about football. Bo taught us all the right way to block, to tackle and to go about life.
I loved how he would answer a question that might deserve a simple “yes” with “AFFIRMATIVE!”
I loved Saturday morning meetings at the hotel when Bo would end the meeting with, “Do I have 11? All I need is 11!” and lead us out the door to the bus.
I loved how Bo pitted everyone as being against us. Especially the media, some of whom he said had never worn a jock strap (though he used more colorful language, at the time).
I hear some say there could never be another Bo in college football. I disagree. There could be another Bo. That person would simply have to be willing to outwork every competitor. They’d have to appreciate the perfectly blocked off-tackle play more than the perfectly thrown spiral. They’d have to never break a rule. They’d have to know right from wrong, and always choose right. They’d have to value loyalty to their school over the chance to earn millions more somewhere else. And then, when their school offered them more money, they’d have to insist on sharing it with their assistant coaches.
For there to be another Bo, they’d have to relish preparation as much as the game. They’d have to believe the tougher, better prepared, more fundamentally sound team will win many more times than it will lose. They’d have to play fair, no matter how the opponent chooses to play. They’d have to love their school. And care for their players and coaches as if they were family. They’d have to demand their players and coaches work harder than they ever have, to give more than they ever thought they could. Then they’d have to work just as hard themselves. For there to be another Bo, they’d have to recognize that an enduring legacy means building a foundation of integrity, loyalty and trust. And that there are no shortcuts to enduring success. They’d have to know humility, and place the team above all else. Maybe those who say there could never be another Bo are right. Certainly, not many people who have ever walked this earth could live up to these standards. I can think of only one.
Rest In Peace, Bo. Craig Dunaway
The football players who played for Bo that I know speak about him with reverence, and it is impressive to see the impression Bo made with the college football community across the nation. Some may be surprised to know that Bo was a huge baseball fan. I did not check my facts for this note, but I am pretty sure he played baseball at Miami, or at the least, he was involved with the program. I was a catcher at Michigan in the early 1980s, and Bo was a frequent visitor to practice. He was very supportive, and often called me over to ask about the team. He was interested in the "game within the game" between the pitcher/catcher and hitter, and it was clear that he was a student of the game. I remember calling my Dad, whose high school football coach was Woody Hayes, and comparing his impressions of Woody and mine of Bo. I felt privileged that he would consult with me, and his encouragement and genuine concern and interest gave me a glimpse into why his players feel so strongly for him. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family and those who loved him.
Rich Bair
My first year as head wrestling coach (ranked 4th nationally) I returned from a close loss to Iowa (ranked 1st). When Bo yelled down from the Athletic Office balcony. "What in the Hell are you doing losing to IOWA?" These were the days before Hayden Frye, when Iowa was the football door mat of the Big Ten: holding a slight position over Northwestern. I responded."WHAT IN THE HELL ARE YOU DOING LOSING TO OHIO STATE? WE HAVEN'T LOST TO THEM IN WRESTLING IN 30 YEARS, Bo."
Bo then invited me into his office for a private "chat" which I cherish to this day. After that chat, we had a mutual admiration and respect for each other as well as the everlasting love for Michigan. Missing Bo already, I remain,
Sincerely yours in Michigan,
Three times… twice in the Brick House, once in Memorial Stadium I played against his teams. Bo came up to me once at a Big Ten luncheon before my senior year and said, “George, I like how you play football.” That folks, came from a man of heart.
George Adzick FB 74-76
I last saw Bo at the 1998 Rose Bowl. He had not changed much from the previous visit, he still had that thin smile and that glint (fire) in his eye - and he was still a very good man! I have always respected Bo and his contributions to building me as a better person. His memory will always remain a part of me - Michigan - and Tradition. Our prayers are with Bo and his family.
Sincerest Regards,
Doug Sheldon Go Blue & Go Bo!
We would like to start out by offering our deepest sympathy to everyone in the Schembechler family & everyone who had the pleasure of knowing him.
We come from a very long line of Michigan football players (and a basketball player :-) at the University of Michigan. Starting from my husband's grandfather, his aunts, his uncle, his dad (under Schembechler in the late 60s), his mother, and his brother, the late Ben Huff ('94-'97) and many more family members (some who still attend).
So, Bo's legacy is BIG TIME here for us.
When we heard the news of his passing on the way from Charleston, SC to Charlotte, NC getting ready for the "biggest game in history," it was so devastating.
We hope that his family will be surrounded with wonderful memories and understanding people.
I know that Bo's legacy will live on forever..... I know it will in our household, after all, we did name our son Bo (Huff) after the real, the wonderful, the magnificent, the never-to-be-forgotten......BO SCHEMBECHLER.
Our thoughts & prayers for eternity...
Jason, Jennifer, Peyton & Bo Huff
I think most men would like to believe that during their lifetime they had a positive impact on someone or something that they felt they made a significant positive [contribution] to. Bo has done that with arguably hundreds if not thousands of young men and one of the largest institutions in the country if not the world. How much better does it get than that? His name through his contribution to many will live on forever through us. “Those who stayed are Blessed."
Dave Metz – Football 71-74
My father had played only a few years of football at Michigan under Bump Elliot before injuries put him out of the game. Being a good student as well, he continued his studies, finishing his undergrad and masters. Later in life while my father was working on his Ph.D. in Computer Engineering in Ann Arbor, my father, brother and I headed down to the outdoor track one summer evening to run a bit - my father to run off the stress of the day and my brother and I to let off some of that energy only young boys have. I might have been only 6 or 7 years old at the time. As a young boy, I wasn't paying much attention to what was going on around me while we ran the track that warm summer evening. However, I do remember how my father's disposition changed when a tall commanding figure made it's way across the track. My father stood straight as a board, extended his hand and used the word "Sir." Clearly this was a person for whom my father had great respect - little did I know. I remember this person as engaging and genuine. He even turned to my brother and I to chat when he was done speaking with my father. I remember this large person with a strong voice and strong hand bend down to address me. I stood straight and extended my hand and shook - as my father had taught me in addressing people. And this person said, "So, are you going to come to Michigan to play football?" I smiled and said, "No sir. I am going to come to Michigan to wrestle." He looked a little puzzled, as did my dad, and said, "That is great." I was a little too young to really understand who I was talking to at the time. He turned to address my father again and he was gone.
While football was not my sport of choice - and after telling Bo I was going to wrestle all recruiting opportunities were shot - this was my brief brush with the legend of Michigan Football.
Justin Spewock
I always thought that some day I would get to see Bo again and let him know that I was OK and that God had miraculously seen me through. God knows it was a challenge.
I was very bummed out to say the least, and I told Bo that it was a mix-up and that I had been assured by the professor that I had obtained an A for the 4-hour class. Needless to say, Bo was not impressed and had a special assignment for me while we awaited the professor's return. Bo said, "Strinko, you are going to have to run ten 100-yard dashes after each of the am and pm practices for the entire pre-season. Not only will you run 100-yard dashes, but you will have to beat me on each and every one of them."
Well most of you understand how exhausted you are after these two-a-day practices, and on the first day I line up to begin and Bo lines up on the 10-yard line. A 10-yard advantage. Normally that would not be much, but on top of being extremely tired, I was not in tip top form. I thought to myself, this is going to be tough. To add to the suspense, right before we started the first 100, Bo turns to me and says, "for every one of these I win you are going to have to run 10 more."
I am sure he was kind to me that summer as I won every one of those 100-yard dashes for that two week period. I can't say at the time that I thought it fair, but it taught me a lot about myself and even more about the great coach who was always so much like my dad to me and many of you.
Most of us never told Bo how much he meant to us, but somehow I think he knew.
Steve Strinko #59 1971-1974
In the afternoon on Thursday, November 16, the day before Bo passed away, I had the honor of being with him at the Big House. I was there to interview Bo for an upcoming documentary. Little did I know that it would be the last time he would ever be at the stadium.
I was one of 2 producers on-site for the interview and my co-worker is also a UM graduate. Bo was truly in his element. It was the weekend he looked forward to all year. He was at the place he adored. He talked about the memories he cherished. And, he knew he was talking with 2 UM graduates who were just as excited to be rehashing times long since passed.
When we concluded the interview, I walked Bo to his car. We chatted briefly about the upcoming game; he got into his car and drove off. I got the news the next morning while working on another part of the documentary - I could hardly believe it. To be the last person to see him at the stadium he made famous is something I will never forget. To be a member of the Michigan Athletic Department Family - it had even more meaning for me. The interviewers could have been anyone - but the fact that we were both intimately connected with the University was something special. And for Bo, he was doing what he loved. He would not have had it any other way.
Greg Stern |
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