also off the front page (link)
by olson (2019-03-04 15:05:50)
Edited on 2019-04-11 14:04:08

In reply to: off the front page *  posted by olson


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I always enjoy Leon Hart stories.
by RocketShark  (2019-03-06 02:14:42)     cannot delete  |  Edit  |  Return to Board  |  Ignore Poster   |   Highlight Poster  |   Reply to Post

My two favorites, paraphrased because it's been a while since I've read them and can't even remember who to cite as a source (I'll guess Jack Connor or Bonifer/Weaver).

1. Equipment manager Blackjack McAllister was reportedly....ornery. If a player complained or asked for something he'd snap back, "what should it matter? You probably won't make the team anyway!" So Leon was given ill-fitting shoes. Either they were too tight or both were for left feet – I don't remember, but something crazy like that. Leon was afraid to tell McAllister about it so he learned to play in them.

2. Coach Leahy saw Leon after practice and asked how he felt. Leon said he was a little tired. Coach said he's obviously out of shape, take ten laps. The next time Leahy asks him again how he feels. "Great coach!" Well obviously he wasn't trying hard enough in practice. Take ten laps. A third time after practice Leahy asks Leon how he feels. Leon paused and then asked, "how do you want me to feel, coach?" No laps were required.

I sometimes work with a guy who years ago worked with Leon Hart to produce the video highlights for the 1946-1949 seasons. He said Hart was great and the experience was a lot of fun. I can imagine.


I've mentioned this one before
by meatwhistle  (2019-03-06 12:21:42)     cannot delete  |  Edit  |  Return to Board  |  Ignore Poster   |   Highlight Poster  |   Reply to Post

After the 2000 Nebraska game, we got back to the car and Leon had parked at the same property off Bulla. I introduced myself to him, exchanged pleasantries etc. Unfortunately, I was also half in the bag and asked him "Mr. Hart, do you suppose Coach Leahy would have gone for a tie?"

He grabbed my shoulder, looked me in the eye and said: "Kid, Frank Leahy only knew how to do one thing: win"


Did you ever hear about the time,
by RocketShark  (2019-03-07 20:59:57)     cannot delete  |  Edit  |  Return to Board  |  Ignore Poster   |   Highlight Poster  |   Reply to Post

well after the 1946 game against Army, when Coach Leahy supposedly out of the blue looked up to the heavens and cried out, "why didn't I kick a field goal?!?"

Coach Devine might've asked the same question after the 1978 Missouri game.