My most cherished reflection after four years of Penn State wrestling is the character and personality of the team. The guys I remember most are my brother Joe (of course), Bob Homan, Jerry Maurey, Don Maurey, Don Frey, Doug Frey (the good looking twin), Bill Oberly, and Hud Samson. There were more guys over the years than those I listed, and they all seemed to have the same attributes. Everyone had the greatest respect for each other and the team. We had our anxieties and frustrations just like anyone else, but those times didn’t last long. Most always we were “up”—lots of humor, with some pranks, lots of concern for each other, lots and lots of helping each other.
The noise at Rec Hall during our meets was overwhelming, totally exciting, and inspirational. But nothing was sweeter during a bout than looking at the bench and seeing my teammates cheering me on. I didn’t realize the full meaning of the word at that time, but I’ve learned to know that I loved them.
And I know it’s hard to believe. but during those four years I do not recall a single squabble or falling-out within our team. To me, the whole thing is unbelievable—in a sweaty gymnasium and a too-hot steam room, we found a Camelot.
