Happy New Year!

Happy New Year to you and your family. May you have a happy, healthy, and joyous 2012.

You may have noticed that this Web site was taken offline for a few days earlier this week due to inappropriate comments in the Guest Book. Please note that I have worked on this site almost exclusively on my own over the last six years with very little help. I've created a Crimson Crier archive, embedded some classic videos, and opened a gift shop.

The site has also served to help promote reunions, including the 50-year reunions of the Class of 1959 and Class of 1961. I've also written a number of feature articles about former students and faculty members of Andrew Warde High School. And, "This Date in Warde Sports History" has been well-received. I certainly hope you have enjoyed it.

In order to keep this site going, I need your assistance. If you have any Crimson Crier issues, videos, photos, stories, or you would like to write feature articles, I welcome your help. Please contact me at pppiorek@news12.com.

Happy New Year!

Paul

Warde Hopes for Repeat of 1973 Victory Over Notre Dame in Fairfield Festival Finals Tonight

Fairfield Warde upset ninth-ranked Fairfeld Prep in overtime, 76-68, Wednesday night to advance to the championship game of the 2011 Fairfield Festival boys' basketball tournament. The Mustangs will play Notre Dame, which defeated Ludlowe in the semi-finals, this evening at Fairfield University's Alumni Hall. Warde is hoping for a repeat of its Fairfield Festival victory over the Lancers 38 years ago this week.

Phil Ness and the Andrew Warde High School boys' basketball team stifled a Notre Dame comeback bid in the closing minutes and held on for a 72-65 victory in the opening round of the Fairfield Festival basketball tournament before a capacity crowd of 3,100 fans at Fairfield University's Alumni Hall, Thursday, December 27, 1973.

Trailing 52-44 entering the final eight minutes, the Lancers went to work. Dave Lehn, a six-foot-two senior forward, scored 17 of his 30 points in the final chapter on an assortment of long-range bombs as Notre Dame managed to grab a short-lived 59-58 lead at the 4:21 mark. Lehn's three-point play at that point put the Lancers ahead.

The lead see-sawed back and forth until Bob Neilson tallied a pair of free throws with 1:37 remaining to give the Crimson Eagles a 66-65 advantage they never relinquished. Ness blocked three shots during the final minute of play and made a pair of steals to ice the verdict. The six-foot-seven center finished with 16 points, 12 rebounds, 10 blocked shots, and 10 steals.

Ness was aided by Ron DelBianco, who chipped in with 18 points, and Bob Cleveland with 11 markers. Lehn received support from sophomore Tommy Burbank, who scored 12, and Kelly Lombard with 10. Warde managed quarter leads of 19-16, 42-27, and 52-44 before the frantic final minutes of play.

John Lademan's steal of an errant pass with seven seconds remaining lifted Fairfield Prep to a narrow 64-60 victory over a scrappy Ludlowe outfit in the nightcap.

Paul

Warde Cagers Improved to 5-1 in FCIAC by Topping Danbury, 80-56, 47 Years Ago Today

Andrew Warde High School's high-scoring duo of Rusty Helgren and Bruce Bernhard powered the Crimson Eagles to a relatively easy 80-56 victory over Danbury in FCIAC basketball action 47 years ago today, Tuesday, December 22, 1964. It was Warde's fifth victory in six league contests.

Helgren tallied 21 points and Bernhard added 20 to lead head coach Don Feeley's charges. Feeley, you may remember, would later coach at the collegiate level at Sacred Heart University in Fairfield.

The winners jumped out to a 21-8 cushion after the first quarter and held a commanding 32-20 lead at the halftime intermission. The Crimson Eagles featured a balanced attack with eight players reaching the scoring column.

Danbury's attempt to put on a press in the third and fourth quarters failed as Helgren moved inside and clicked for 13 points during the stretch. Bernhard chipped in with nine more as the Eagles coasted to the victory in Danbury on December 22, 1964.

Paul

Warde's Ron DelBianco Eclipsed 1,000-Point Career Mark 38 Years Ago Today

Senior Ron DelBianco scored seven points in the last three minutes to eclipse the 1,000 point career mark, and teammate Phil Ness converted two three-point plays during that same span to lead the Andrew Warde High School varsity basketball team to a 77-64 FCIAC victory over Stamford at the winners' court 38 years ago today, Friday evening, December 21, 1973.

DelBianco, who needed 14 points heading into the game to crack the prestigious plateau, suffered through some jittery moments in pursuit of the mark, but finished with 20 points, giving him 1,006 for his career. His two clutch free throws with 3:15 left in the game gave the winners a ten-point lead, 62-52, and also vaulted him into the Warde record book.

Stamford, which fell to 1-2, had narrowed a 20-point second half deficit to eight points on a free throw by Forrest Andrews at the 3:30 mark. DelBianco subsequently canned his foul shots, and then came back moments later to complete a three-point play, stretching the lead to 11 at 65-54. Ness, who finished with a team-high 23 points and 25 rebounds, sandwiched his six points around a Stamford bucket to put the Crimson Eagles safely in front, 71-58, with two minutes left.

Warde had to contest with Stamford's Ernie Cobb all night as the Black Knights' rubber-armed guard fired in 37 points. He converted 17 of 42 shots. Cobb's 10 points enabled the visitors to hold a 17-15 first quarter lead, but he cooled down in the second stanza when Warde outscored the guests, 16-1, in the last three-and-a-half-minutes for a 38-29 lead at the intermission.

Reserve guard Bob Sherman keyed Warde's second period surge by scoring ten points in the last four minutes of the quarter. The junior also helped solve Stamford's full-court zone press, which riddled the winners in the early stages of the contest. He finished with 16 points and also turned in a fine defensive effort, helping to harrass Cobb on his jump shots from long range.

Both teams were cold in the third period, but Warde managed to add three points to its nine point halftime advantage for a 53-41 lead entering the final stanza. Cobb tallied 10 of his team's 12 points in the period.

Brad Gold helped out Ness with 11 caroms. The winners outshot the Black Knights, 48 percent to 35 percent.

Warde captured the jayvee contest, 54-53, behind Tom Curry's 15 point performance.

Paul

Warde Skaters Earned 2-2 Tie With Stamford Catholic on This Date in 1973

The Andrew Warde High School ice hockey team played to a 2-2 tie against Stamford Catholic High School in its third game of the season, Saturday, December 15, 1973, in Stamford.

Joseph Hamilton and Andy Larsen scored for the Crimson Eagles, with assists from Craig Benak. The Warde ice hockey team became a member of the highly-competitive Fairfield County Interscholastic Athletic Conference in 1973-74, one year after coach Arnie Larsen established the program. The league included 14 teams and two divisions.

Warde outshot the hosts, 25-10, overall, but could not manage to tally the go-ahead goal due to outstanding netminding by the Crusaders.

Following the tie, the Eagles record stood at one win, one loss, and one tie in FCIAC competition. Read more about the Crimson Eagles' exciting 1973-74 season by clicking this link.

Paul

Fifth Annual Christmas Sing-Along a Great Success

Andrew Warde High School alumnus Tony Procaccini developed the music program for the annual Bridgeport Christmas Sing-Along at its 2007 inception and conducted all previous sing-alongs.

For the first time in three years, Christmas revelers were able to sing and be festive outdoors in the Fifth Annual Community Christmas Carol Sing-Along, on the Great Lawn of the picturesque Saint Margaret's Shrine in Bridgeport, Connecticut.

The annual event, which is slowly becoming a popular fixture on the local calendar, took place on Sunday, December 11, at 3:00 PM on a brisk sunny day.

Bishop William Lori of the Diocese of Bridgeport, pictured below, attended and warmly greeted the crowd. Reverend Alfonso Picone, of the host parish, mentioned the ongoing restoration work being done at the shrine, a lovely destination for all who wish to visit and worship there.

Following the clergy, Leonard Paoletta, a former Bridgeport mayor and the founder of the event's sponsor, B.A.C.I.O., Inc., welcomed everyone to both the sing-along and the free reception held afterward directly across the street, at the Circolo Sportivo building.

Andrew Warde classmate Tony Procaccini, pictured above in the suit jacket singing, developed the music program for the sing-along at its 2007 inception, and conducted all previous sing-alongs. This year, however, he took a back seat to a talented young percussionist and composer, Brian Ente of Bridgeport. Ente studied at Ithaca College, has performed extensively nationally and internationally, teaches at the Jim Royle Drum Studio in Bridgeport, and is in great demand locally for his skills.

Mr. Ente, pictured at the left, and the volunteer chorus were supported by a professional brass quartet led by trumpeter Mike Pontecorvo, his brother Louis (also on trumpet), trombonist Leroy Loomer, and tubist Dave Rapposo.

The children also enjoyed the day as Santa Claus, as if by miracle, dropped in about half-way through the performance. He, too, greeted the crowd and mingled until it was time to move on to the reception.

A great time was had by all, and this writer thanks all who participated and helped in this annual endeavor.

Tony Procaccini
AWHS 1976

Dan Haines Led Crimson Eagles to 72-55 Victory over Blue Wave in Darien 45 Years Ago Today

An aggressive and pressing defense in the second and third periods helped the Warde varsity basketball team to a 72-55 victory over Darien on the Blue Wave court 45 years ago today, Tuesday, December 13, 1966.

Trailing 14-11 after the first quarter, the Crimson Eagles erased the Darien lead and gained a 31-25 halftime advantage. Warde's pressing defense caused several ball control errors, while Dan Haines scored ten points in the second stanza.

Jim Howard, who led both teams in rebounding with 15 boards, notched six points in the third period as the visitors increased their lead to 50-38. Mike Corbett netted eight points in the final frame to boost Warde to its final margin of victory.

Haines finished with 20 points, while Jim Howard and Corbett split 32 points. Rich Fekete added 11 markers and grabbed 11 caroms to join with Howard in providing Warde with a 38-27 edge under the boards.

Warde, which won its second game of the season, connected on 44 percent of its field goal tries and 76 percent of its free throws. Darien clicked on only 38 percent of its shots from the floor and 69 percent from the charity stripe.

Darien managed to cop the junior varsity tilt, 69-67, in overtime.

Paul

Crimson Eagles Clobbered Bunnell to Open Boys' Basketball Season 45 Years Ago Today

The Andrew Warde High School boys' basketball team defeated Bunnell High School in Stratford, 79-58, to open the season on this date, Friday, December 9, 1966. It was one of four interleague games between schools from the Fairfield County Athletic Conference and Metropolitan Bridgeport Athletic Conference.

Five Warde starters finished in double-digit scoring as the visiting Eagles jumped out to a 36-19 first half lead and then held on to defeat Bunnell at the Bulldogs' court.

Jim Howard's 23 points paced the Warde offense, while Dan Haines was next with 17. Tom DeLuca hit for 13, and Dick Fekete and Mike Corbett each tallied 10.

The taller Warde cagers had a rebounding edge which they used to build their first-half lead, while the cold-shooting Bunnell cagers could only manage a 25 percent field goal average.

Paul

Andrew Warde High School Family Mourns Passing of Former Teacher and Coach Al Trifone

Former Andrew Warde High School teacher and coach Alfred Trifone, 88, of Fairfield died Tuesday, November 15, 2011, surrounded by his family. He was the husband of Betsy (Dare) Trifone.

"My dad began teaching and coaching at Andrew Warde in 1964," wrote son Steve Trifone, a 1976 Warde graduate who is now the director of athletics at Cheshire High School. "He was an Industrial Arts teacher and taught graphics, printing, and photography. He loved sports and coached football, indoor and outdoor track."

According to Steve Trifone, his Dad started the indoor track program and the girls track program. "He was the first advisor to the Key Club, a service organization within Warde," he added. "I believe it is still in existence. Teaching and coaching were his passion as he loved working with kids. After retirement he stayed with that passion spending quite a bit of time with his grandkids."

Al was born on July 29, 1923 in the Bronx, the son of the late Amelio and Michelina (Parolla) Trifone. Growing up in the Italian section of Harlem, Al was part of a generation that worked to support the family. After his father died at the age of five, Al built a shoe box at age 10 and shined shoes for 10 cents, turning the money over to his mother.

A veteran of World War II, Al enlisted in the U.S. Navy and trained as an aviator. After being honorably discharged, he went to New York University and transferred to the University of Miami to eventually become an Industrial Arts teacher, first working at Miami Beach High School. During those years he met his wife and began to raise his family of five children in Coral Gables, Florida.

A passionate photographer, Al taught photography and viewed most of his family activities through a camera lens. After a couple retirements, Al worked at a local graphics firm and later for Home Depot.

"He stayed in contact with many of his ex-students and athletes throughout the years through that job," pointed out Steve Trifone. "After retirement he still continued to follow Warde sports, attending football contests and remaining close to the coaches and teachers he had worked with."

Besides his devoted wife, he leaves his loving children, James D. Trifone (Cindy) of Cheshire, Robert Trifone (Marjorie) of Darien, Stephen Trifone (Diane) of Cheshire, John Trifone of Frederick, MD, Nancy Trifone Ferrarese of Fairfield, and Celeste Kroll of Gainesville, FL; a brother, Frank Trifone of West Haverstraw, NY; and two sisters, Lucy Parisi of Fairfield, and Grace Atalese of Long Beach Island, NJ.

Crimson Eagles Surge to 71-58 Win Over Golden Eagles in 1962-63 Basketball Opener on This Date

Led by the hot shooting of co-captain Pete Jankovsky, Andrew Warde High School's varsity basketball team caught fire in the fourth quarter and overcame an eight-point deficit to post a 71-58 triumph over Trumbull in the season-opener for both teams at the Golden Eagles' court, Tuesday, December 4, 1962.

Jankovsky, who finished as the game's high scorer with seven field goals and five free throws, connected for 15 points on five field goals and five charity tosses during the closing surge by Coach Don Feeley's Crimson Eagles.

Strong rebounding and timely scoring by center Marty Melson and forward Wayne Gower also contributed heavily to the brilliant Warde comeback that completely turned the tide of battle. Trailing by a 46-38 margin at the close of the third quarter, the visiting Fairfield cagers outscored their hosts, 33-12, in the closing period, and broke the game wide open during the final two minutes of play.

Coach Dick She'a Trumbull outfit played deliberate basketball and controlled the boards early through the efforts of six-foot-three Fred Liggins and Tom Damico. The hosts jumped into the early lead which they maintained until the Crimson Eagles eventually took command. Trumbull had a 15-13 edge after the first quarter and led 29-28 at the halftime intermission.

The Trumbull squad played without valuable Gil Sidoti, who averaged 13.6 points in 19 games the year before. Sidoti was sidelined until after the Christmas holiday with a thigh injury.

Gower and Melson contributed 18 points each to the Warde triumph, while co-captain Bob Ryan scored nine points and reserve Jim Siavrakas tallied seven points for the Crimson Eagles. Gower, who was Warde's first-half scoring leader, sank four long-range set shots in five attempts during the first two periods.

Damico and Liggins led Trumbull's attack with 17 and 16 points, respectively. Harvey Adams also scored in double figures for the losers with 12 points, and Terry Nelson hit for nine.

The Crimson Eagles, who scored 27 field goals to Trumbull's 24, sank 17 of 23 free throws, while the Golden Eagles only cashed in on 10 of 23 foul shots.

Paced by the 16-point effort of Bruce Bernhard, the Warde jayvees edged Trumbull's junior varsity squad, 43-42, in the preliminary tilt. Dave Logie was the high scorer for the losers with 14 points.

Paul

Andrew Warde Alumnus to Lead Fifth Annual Community Christmas Sing-Along set for Sunday, December 11 in Bridgeport

Residents of the Greater Bridgeport area are once again invited to join in celebrating Christmas in song at the Fifth Annual Community Christmas Carol Sing-Along, on Sunday, December 11, at 3:00 PM.

The Great Lawn of Saint Margaret's Shrine, 2539 Park Avenue, Bridgeport, CT is the venue, and in case of precipitation, the singing will take place in the Circolo Sportivo Building, located directly across the street from the shrine.


Volunteer singers and a brass quartet led by Mike Pontecorvo will be under the direction of Brian Ente. Andrew Warde 1976 alumnus Tony Procaccini (pictured above), who conducted the first four sing-alongs, will open the ceremonies and guide the singers in two selections during the program.

Bishop William E. Lori of the Bridgeport Roman Catholic Diocese will attend and address the crowd, and local politicians are also expected.


A "special visitor" (pictured above) from the North Pole will arrive for the children. His appearance every year has been a great moment for all those who are young at heart.

The sing-along, which started in 2007, is the creation of former Bridgeport mayor Leonard Paoletta, who is also founder and president of B.A.C.I.O., Inc., the event's main sponsor. B.A.C.I.O. - the acronym means Bridgeport Area Cultural Italian Organization - is a non-profit group promoting Italian culture and heritage. Their Website is http://www.bacioinc.com.

People interested in singing should attend a 2:00 PM rehearsal on the same day. They may also contact Tony Procaccini at 718.873.7421 or aprocaccini@juno.com.

Come on, come all, and bring in the Christmas season in song!

Andrew Warde Crimson Eagles & Fairfield Warde Mustangs Enjoy Thanksgiving Day Success Against Ludlowe ... Then & Now

Warde's 52-13 victory over rival Ludlowe on the Falcons' gridiron last Thursday morning gave the Mustangs a 4-3 edge in the modern-day Thanksgiving Day series. The Andrew Warde Crimson Eagles enjoyed tremendous Turkey Day success against the Roger Ludlowe Flying Tigers, winning seven of the 10 games played between the two Fairfield public high schools.

Overall, Warde has an 11-6 lead since the series first started in 1975. Warde has won the last two games of the current series, and the Eagles captured the final five games of the original series. Here is a look at the history of the Thanksgiving Day football rivalry:

Andrew Warde Crimson Eagles vs. Roger Ludlowe Flying Tigers

1975 to 1984

(Series: Warde 7 Wins, Ludlowe 3 Wins)

1975: Warde Eagles 28, Ludlowe Tigers 6

1976: Warde Eagles 20, Ludlowe Tigers 13

1977: Ludlowe Tigers 20, Warde Eagles 13

1978: Ludlowe Tigers 35, Warde Eagles 6

1979: Ludlowe Tigers 41, Warde Eagles 25

1980: Warde Eagles 17, Ludlowe Tigers 14

1981: Warde Eagles 14, Ludlowe Tigers 8

1982: Warde Eagles 23, Ludlowe Tigers 0

1983: Warde Eagles 26, Ludlowe Tigers 6

1984: Warde Eagles 16, Ludlowe Tigers 13

Fairfield Warde Mustangs vs. Fairfield Ludlowe Falcons
2005 to 2011
(Series: Warde 4 Wins, Ludlowe 3 Wins)
2005: Ludlowe Falcons 20, Warde Mustangs 14
2006: Warde Mustangs 21, Ludlowe Falcons 12
2007: Warde Mustangs 28, Ludlowe Falcons 0
2008: Ludlowe Falcons 10, Warde Mustangs 8

2009: Ludlowe Falcons 24, Warde Mustangs 14

2010: Warde Mustangs 21, Ludlowe Falcons 16
2011: Warde Mustangs 52, Ludlowe Falcons 13

Paul

Thanksgiving Day Cakewalk as Warde Routs Ludlowe, 52-13, to Take Series Lead

The following was written by Connecticut Post sportswriter Pat Pickens. Photos, including the Warde Mustang and band below, courtesy of the Connecticut Post.

The Fairfield Warde football team was hellbent on taking all its pent-up frustration out on arch-rival Fairfield Ludlowe on Thanksgiving.

Devon Lofton and the Mustangs did just that. The senior running back earned MVP honors, running for 248 yards and three touchdowns and catching another score as Warde dominated Ludlowe 52-13 on Thursday at Taft Field.

"It's a rivalry," said Lofton, who is pictured above after one of his carries. "It feels great to come out on top."

Former Ludlowe student and current Warde receiver Maxx Garrett added two second half scores for Warde and Chris Foley threw four touchdowns, including another to Kevin Sullivan. Lofton had bookend, 79-yard touchdown runs in the first and fourth quarter, too.

"I came to play today," added Lofton, pictured below after making an interception of a Ludlowe pass. "It was my last game."

Warde had high-hopes of a playoff season in coach Duncan DellaVolpe's third year, but struggled at the end of games, finishing 5-5 for the third straight season. The Mustangs did take solace in earning the Gallagher-Banyas Trophy -- the prize for the annual town rivalry game -- for the second consecutive year.

"We've been in every game to the end and we definitely had some frustration," DellaVolpe said. "We don't have much in our trophy case, so it's important that (the Gallagher-Banyas Trophy) stays in there."

Ludlowe's Stephen Scholz was named the Falcons' MVP after rushing for 39 yards and a touchdown. Sophomore quarterback Matt White ran for Ludlowe's other score as the Falcons finished 0-10.

"They're great kids," Ludlowe head coach Matt McCloskey said. "The scoreboard doesn't show it, but I'm proud of them."

After holding the Falcons to a missed field goal on its opening drive, it took Warde just two plays to get on the scoreboard. Lofton took the Mustangs' second offensive play 79 yards to paydirt, and the Mustangs converted one of their three successful two-point conversions to go ahead 8-0.

"His speed is fantastic," DellaVolpe said of Lofton. "To have him in a game like this, is very big."

Lofton's receiving touchdown -- a 15-yard catch from Foley-- put the Mustangs up 16-0 early in the quarter. "I saw a lot of open space," Lofton said. "And I just ran to it."

But the Falcons responded on their ensuing drive, as White scampered 41 yards on third-and-one to cut the Mustangs' advantage to 16-6. "I was happy with the first half of the game," McCloskey said. "We had a couple of young mistakes, though."

However, Warde recovered the ensuing onside kick and Lofton went 55 yards in three plays to boost Warde's lead to 23-6. Lofton then intercepted White in the end zone at the half's end. "He's a good football player," McCloskey said of Lofton. "They're a good football team."

The Mustangs came out at the start of the second, and Foley hit Garrett from 13 yards out on fourth-and-five to give Warde a 31-6 lead. After a fumble, Garrett scored on a 45-yard pass from Foley, and the rout was on.

"It was great to demolish Ludlowe," Lofton said.

Aiello Carried Warde to Thanksgiving Day Win Over Kolbe in Fairfield on This Date in 1973

Senior halfback Ken Aiello exploded for 115 yards and two touchdowns in the second half to carry Andrew Warde High School to a 28 to 18 come-from-behind victory over Kolbe, Thanksgiving morning, November 22, 1973.

Aiello's fourth-quarter scoring runs erased an 18-14 Friars' lead as the guests failed to notch their first win in the annual Turkey Day series between the two schools. Warde extended its winning streak to six games, dating back to 1968.

Aiello, who finished with 155 yards on the ground, earned the Warde Most Valuable Player award for his efforts, while Kolbe halfback Ken Iassogna, who churned out 129 yards in 18 carries and scored a touchdown, was the Friars' recipient.

Kolbe's effort was one of its strongest in the series. The Friars were in command until the Crimson Eagles mounted a ferocious running attack in the second half. Quarterback Jim DelVecchio gained all of his 74 yards in the second half on a long touchdown jaunt in the third quarter.

Kolbe made a bid to put the game away early in the second half, however, as the Friars used up five minutes to drive 57 yards in 10 plays for a score on the opening series of the half. Quarterback Frank Borres, who rushed for 72 yards and passed for another 122, went over from three yards out to give Kolbe a seemingly sturdy 18-6 lead.

Less than two minutes later, DelVecchio was off and running toward paydirt. Tom Connelly's subsequent conversion rush narrowed the Kolbe lead to 18-14. It appeared that Warde's momentum was stopped at the outset of the fourth quarter when the Kolbe defense held the hosts on downs at the Friar 11. However, a crucial fumble on Kolbe's next series gave Warde new life.


Julius Dudics recovered Iassogna's fumble at the Kolbe 26, and Warde assumed its first lead moments later when Aiello bolted over the goal line from 11 yards away. His subsequent two-point rush made it 22-18, and his 54-yard scoring run four minutes later sealed the victory.

The two clubs traded touchdowns in the early minutes of the first half as Borres hit Ed Daniels with a 22-yard scoring strike for a 6-0 Kolbe lead. Connelly returned the ensuing kickoff 85 yards to tie the score at 6-6. Iasoggna's 26-yard touchdown run in the second quarter sent the Friars to the locker room with a 12-6 advantage.

Statistically, Kolbe enjoyed a 342-221 edge in total offensive yardage. The Crimson Eagles outgained the guests on the ground, 271 to 220 yards. Borres, who clicked on five of seven passes, gave Kolbe a 122-55 margin in yards passing.

Paul

Recalling Andrew Warde's Short-Lived, Long-Ago Thanksgiving Day Rivalry With Kolbe High School

Fairfield Ludlowe High School will host the annual "Battle of Fairfield" this Thanksgiving morning when the Fairfield Warde Mustangs travel to Taft Field to play the Falcons at 10:30. Warde is attempting to break a 3-3 series deadlock against the Falcons in the latest edition of the rivalry which was renewed in 2005.

However, 43 years ago this month, Warde began a short-lived and all-but-forgotten Thanksgiving Day rivalry against a small private school in Bridgeport. Prior to the opening of Andrew Warde High School in 1956, cross-town rival Roger Ludlowe High School had an established Turkey Day football game against Bassick in Bridgeport.

That left the Crimson Eagles searching for a Thanksgiving Day opponent. So, how and why did the series with Kolbe eventually start? "We both needed a Turkey Day game, so a friendly, competitive situation developed," explained former Warde coaching legend Fern Tetreau. "Both teams played hard."

The Kolbe Friars, who didn't even have a field of their own, were Warde's opponents on Thanksgiving Day from 1968 through 1974. The only question prior to each of the first five games with Kolbe wasn't who would win, but by how much. Warde dominated the series from 1968 through 1972, winning two of the five games in shutout fashion and never allowing more than eight points in any game. Overall, Warde won all seven games in the series and outscored Kolbe, 214-44.

"The best part about our clash with Kolbe was that we never had a terrible turkey dinner," Tom Davis, a member of the Eagles' squads from 1970 through 1972, told me via email. "It was always enjoyable. We went into the game knowing that we were going to win. They may have thought that they were a better team but we knew that we would win."

The Crimson Eagles won the first meeting between the schools, 32-8, in 1968. One year later, Warde blasted Kolbe, 40-6. Quarterback Chico Rodriguez threw five touchdown passes to lead the Eagles. Steve DuBoys caught scoring strikes of 70, eight, and 87 yards to help Warde to a 20-0 lead after one quarter.

Rodriguez led the winners on a 76-yard drive to open the second quarter, culminating with a 21-yard touchdown pass to Al Cassidy. Mike Skalski caught an 87-yard touchdown pass in the third quarter, and the Eagles closed the scoring in the fourth quarter when Jack Rozgonyi scampered five yards to paydirt.

The Eagles made it three in a row in 1970 when they posted a 20-6 victory in Fairfield. Warde traveled to Hedges Stadium in Bridgeport and earned its first of two straight shutout victories in 1971 (34-0). Quarterback Glen Hlavaty riddled the Friar secondary by passing for four touchdowns, leaving many wondering whether the Friars would ever win a game in the series, much less be competitive. However, even a new Kolbe coach couldn't change the Thanksgiving Day outcome in 1972.


According to the November 19, 1972 issue of the Bridgeport Sunday Post, "Kolbe High School football coach Paul Janosko is faced with a difficult assignment. In his first year as the Friars' mentor, he will try to lead his charges to their initial Thanksgiving Day triumph. With two fine performances in recent weeks, including a 40-18 triumph over Bullard Havens for their only victory, the Friars figure to give Warde a run for its money."

However, that was not to be as the Crimson Eagles buried Kolbe, 40-0. Warde finished the season at 3-6-1. Dividing the quarterback chores were Hlavaty and Davis. Running back Jim DelVecchio and placekicker Harry Caston were the scoring threats for Warde. Neil Karker and Frank Markoya were the sure-handed receivers for the Eagles.

"The '72 game was a really good game for us as we pounded them pretty good, and we all played a pretty good game," wrote Tom Davis, the younger brother of head coach Bill Davis. He noted that the games against Kolbe carried added significance for him and his brother.

"The Thanksgiving Day games were the only games my Dad saw me play as he owned his own business and worked on Saturdays, so those days were special for me." Overall, Warde outscored Kolbe, 166-20, after the first five games.

One year later, in 1973, the Kolbe gridders were a confident group heading into the Thanksgiving Day showdown with their Fairfield neighbors. According to the Bridgeport Sunday Post of November 18, 1973, "In five previous attempts, the Kolbe High School football team has failed in its quest to defeat Warde on Thanksgiving Day. That could all change as the Friars venture to the Crimson Eagles' gridiron in Fairfield for their sixth annual confrontation.


"Coach Paul Janosko's Friar combine has enjoyed a very successful season, posting a 4-5 MBIAC record. In two of the setbacks, the Friars led Harding, 14-0, at intermission before bowing, and lost in the final minute to St. Joseph, 14-12. Having already won more games than any other Kolbe eleven, Janosko has his troops primed for their first .500 season."

Once again, though, Warde prevailed. Senior halfback Ken Aiello exploded for 115 yards and two touchdowns in the second half to lead the Eagles to a 28-18 come-from-behind victory over the Friars in the 1973 Thanksgiving Day tussle. Aiello's fourth-quarter scoring runs of 11 and 54 yards erased an 18-14 Friar lead as the losers frittered away an opportunity to notch their first win in this Turkey Day series.

Aiello, who finished with 155 yards on the ground, was awarded the Most Valuable Player for Warde, while Kolbe halfback Ken Iassogna, who churned up 120 yards in 18 carries and scored a touchdown, was the Frairs' recipient.

"The Kolbe effort should rank as one of its strongest in this series as the Friars were in full command until the Crimson Eagles mounted a ferocious running attack in the second half to overpower the opposition," the newspaper article stated. Jim DelVecchio ran for a 74-yard touchdown in the third quarter for the victorious Eagles.

The final Thanksgiving Day matchup between the two rivals happened in 1974. The Eagles finished the seven-game sweep of Kolbe by posting a 20-6 victory in front of an estimated 4,000 fans in Fairfield. Warde linebacker Phil Cerrone came up with the big play as he killed a Kolbe scoring bid with a pass interception and an 82-yard return to set up an important insurance touchdown for Warde.

Cerrone, who gained the Most Valuable Player award for his crucial theft, intercepted Jamsey Codrington's pass in the right flat as Kolbe was driving toward the Warde goal line. Cerrone stepped in front of intended receiver Ira Thomas at the 10, picked off the pass, and rambled 82 yards to the Friars' eight. Two plays later, Harold Savage scored a touchdown from nine yards out, staking the Crimson Eagles to a 12-0 lead with 3:30 left in the game.


Warde put the finishing touches on its second victory of the season and final Thanksgiving Day win against Kolbe on its next series as an unsuccessful Kolbe onside kick gave the Eagles the ball at midfield, setting up Greg Aiello's 37-yard scoring gallop with 1:03 showing.

The following year, Andrew Warde High School's Crimson Eagles began a Thanksgiving Day football tradition against Roger Ludlowe High School. In fact, Warde defeated Ludlowe twice during the 1975 campaign, marking the only time in the long and storied history of the Fairfield football rivalry that one school swept two games in the same year against the other. As for Kolbe, it no longer fields a high school football team.

Paul

Warde Travels to Ludlowe Thanksgiving Morning for Seventh Annual Showdown in Modern-Day Rivalry

The seventh meeting of the renewal of the Thanksgiving Day football rivalry between Warde and Ludlowe high schools takes place next Thursday morning, November 24, at 10:30 at the Falcons' home field on Unquowa Road. Warde has won three of the last five meetings to even the modern-day version of the rivalry at three games apiece.

The Mustangs enter the game as heavy favorites with a 4-5 overall record. The Falcons, meanwhile, have dropped all nine of their contests this season. Warde won last year's battle, 21-16, at its Melville Avenue home field.


Here are the cumulative results of the Thanksgiving Day football games between Warde and Ludlowe. The original series between the Crimson Eagles and Flying Tigers took place from 1975 to 1984. The modern-day series between the Mustangs and Falcons began in 2005.

Andrew Warde Crimson Eagles vs. Roger Ludlowe Flying Tigers

1975 to 1984

(Series: Warde 7 Wins, Ludlowe 3 Wins)

1975: Warde Eagles 28, Ludlowe Tigers 6

1976: Warde Eagles 20, Ludlowe Tigers 13

1977: Ludlowe Tigers 20, Warde Eagles 13

1978: Ludlowe Tigers 35, Warde Eagles 6

1979: Ludlowe Tigers 41, Warde Eagles 25

1980: Warde Eagles 17, Ludlowe Tigers 14

1981: Warde Eagles 14, Ludlowe Tigers 8

1982: Warde Eagles 23, Ludlowe Tigers 0

1983: Warde Eagles 26, Ludlowe Tigers 6

1984: Warde Eagles 16, Ludlowe Tigers 13

Fairfield Warde Mustangs vs. Fairfield Ludlowe Falcons
2005 to 2010
(Series: Ludowe 3 Wins, Warde 3 Wins)
2005: Ludlowe Falcons 20, Warde Mustangs 14
2006: Warde Mustangs 21, Ludlowe Falcons 12
2007: Warde Mustangs 28, Ludlowe Falcons 0
2008: Ludlowe Falcons 10, Warde Mustangs 8

2009: Ludlowe Falcons 24, Warde Mustangs 14

2010: Warde Mustangs 21, Ludlowe Falcons 16

Paul

Crimson Eagles Topped Golden Eagles, 25-7, in Comeback Effort on Gridiron 42 Years Ago Today

A big second half both offensively and defensively carried the Andrew Warde High School football team to a come-from-behind 25-7 victory over visiting Trumbull High School 42 years ago today, Saturday, November 15, 1969.

Chico Rodriguez threw three touchdown passes to run his season total to 17 and scored another on a two-yard sneak. In addition, Warde's defensive line continuously contained the Trumbull eleven and improved its overall record to 4-5. The Golden Eagles, meanwhile, dropped their sixth in a row to fall to 2-7.

Trumbull opened the scoring in the first quarter as Tom St. Onge fell on a loose lateral at the Warde three yard line. Quarterback Tim St. Onge carried two yards to the one from where Jay Wright ran in for the score. Dick Weinberg booted the extra point.

Warde managed to move into Trumbull territory three times in the first half, but drives were twice stopped on interceptions by Gary Haines and Paul Conner.

The second half, however, was another story. The Crimson Eagles took the opening kickoff and marched 67 yards for their first touchdown. The final 25 yards came on a nifty catch by Dave Abraham in the end zone.

Warde drove to the Trumbull 11 on its next possession but lost the ball on downs. Again, Trumbull punted, and this time the winners were not to be denied. On the final play of the third quarter, Rodriguez threw a 38-yarder to Steve Duboys at the Trumbull six yard line. The Golden Eagles' defense pushed Warde back to the 11 where, on fourth down, Rodriguez' screen pass to Robbie Orciuch produced the go-ahead score.

Later in the fourth quarter, Warde drove 57 yards on the ground with Rodriguez scoring from the two yard line. Co-captain Doug Forstrom, a strong runner all afternoon, carried seven times for 34 yards during the drive.

In the last minute of action, Warde's Jack Rozgonyi intercepted a Trumbull pass and raced 44 yards to the visitors' nine yard line. Rodriguez again found his big target, Abraham, in the end zone to complete the scoring.

Warde's offense gained 385 total yards compared to just 85 for Trumbull. Forstrom picked up 98 yards on 21 carries to top the rushers, while Rodriguez completed 16 of 28 aerials for 195 yards.

Paul

Illness, Injuries, Growing Pains, & Stratford Wallop Warde, 39-0, in Fairfield on This Date in 1957

Hard-running Bob Mastroni led the scoring parade with three touchdowns as Stratford High School's football team evened its overall season record to 3-3 by routing Andrew Warde, 39-0, before a small gathering at the Crimson Eagles' field 54 years ago today, Friday, November 8, 1957.

Weakened by illness and injuries, Warde, in just its second year of existence, was unable to provide the highly-favored North Paraders with much opposition.

Stratford drove 76 yards for a touchdown in the opening minutes of play after staving off Warde's only serious scoring threat directly thereafter. The scarlet-and-gold gridders enjoyed almost complete control of the game.

Fullback Babe Paoletti and halfback Larry Lazaro, who teamed with Mastroni to power a potent ground attack, each contributed a touchdown to Stratford's easy triumph, as did substitute back Jim Dias. Captain Wayne Nakoneczny drop-kicked two extra points in three attempts and threw a pass to quarterback Jerry Nolan for another conversion. Nakoneczny twice tried to run the ball across for extra points, but was stopped.

Stratford registered 15 first downs to Warde's six and ground out a net gain of 231 yards while holding the Eagles to 44. Nolan completed three of six attempted passes for 59 yards in the first half, but the North Paraders went to the air only once in the last two quarters. Unable to make much headway against Stratford's run defense, the Eagles attempted 17 passes, but they completed only five for just 24 yards.

The Eagles bounced back after Stratford's first touchdown with a 51-yard sustained drive --- their best offensive showing of the game --- highlighted by the ball carrying of Jack Flanagan and three pass completions by quarterback Ben Slesinsky, one of which was allowed for interference. The North Paraders' defense dug in, however, and put an end to the Eagles' threat at their seven yard line and immediately drove 93 yards for their second touchdown.

Paul

Crimson Eagles Blanked New Canaan for Sixth Straight Gridiron Victory 52 Years Ago Today

Andrew Warde High School's unbeaten Crimson Eagles traveled to New Canaan and blanked the host Rams, 16-0, 52 years ago today for their sixth straight gridiron victory during the undefeated state championship season of 1959.

Although the Eagles moved through the middle of the New Canaan defensive line almost at will, they were unable to score until the third quarter. Halfback Larry Gill staged a one-man drive, moving the pigskin from the Warde 40-yard-line to paydirt on six consecutive carries, including a 38-yard jaunt around his left end.

His last three bursts, including the touchdown run, were for six yards each on identical thrusts off left tackle. Gill added two conversion points on a similar play.

Warde's second touchdown came the next time the Eagles had possession of the ball as they engineered another sustained running drive and netted five straight first downs while covering 70 yards. Fullback Jack Flanagan capped the surge with three up-the-middle three-yard plunges for the score. Gill once again rushed for the two extra points to seal the triumph.

Warde's line, a key factor in the success of the Eagles since the season started, was superb again against New Canaan. Center Dave Schempp, subbing for the injured Ed Zelle, was particularly impressive on defense, while standout performances were also turned in by tackles Jim Roberto and Fred Gates.

The Eagles rolled to 217 yards on the ground, 156 of which came in the second half, as they fashioned their fifth shutout in six games.

Paul

Andrew Warde High School's Class of 1961 Enjoyed Successful 50-Year Reunion

The following was written by Don Messer of the Andrew Warde High School Class of 1961. He was instrumental in organizing the 50-year reunion October 15 at the Scandanavian Club in Fairfield.

The school tour and reunion were a resounding success from all the compliments that were shared. I know watching the faces of people reuniting was something to behold. As the evening progressed, older faces faded away and became younger faces. This to me was amazing. It seems there were many pictures taken, and now that I have time, I plan to post them to the class Web site.

I know many people who couldn't attend are anxious to see them. I will let you know how to send them shortly via e-mail. I still can't get over the effort that all of you made to come from near and far to attend. I salute you all! And by the way, my legs are starting to move again after all that dancing. (Click the image below to see a full-screen photo).

I 'm sure you all would like to know that there was quite a bit of leftover food, and Fred Figlar and I --- on behalf of our class --- donated it to "Project Hope," the homeless shelter in Fairfield. There must have been enough food for 40 meals.

Thanks for the e-mails of thanks, and I'm sure the Web site will start to get tidbits of good things flowing in.

THANKS EVERYBODY !!!!!

Second Half Comeback Sparked Warde Over Ludlowe on This Date in 1973

A bad snap from center and a recovered fumble allowed Andrew Warde High School's football team to score a pair of second half touchdowns and rally for a 16-14 upset victory over cross-town rival Roger Ludlowe High School at the winners' field before a bi-partisan crowd of 4,000 people on this date, Saturday, October 20, 1973.

Reliable halfback Ken Aiello grounded out 180 yards on 30 carries to spark the Crimson Eagles to their first FCIAC victory against five overall losses and left them with a 1-3 mark in the Eastern Division. Ludlowe fell to 1-3 in the East and 2-4 overall.

Aiello, who also tallied on both extra point conversions, received a plaque from the Fairfield Lions Club as Warde's most valuable player in the game, while Bob Haggerty was voted Ludlowe's top performer in post game ceremonies.

The Flying Tigers tallied at 2:52 of the first quarter when quarterback Joe Rietano sneaked across the goal line on a fourth-and-goal sitution. The 10-play scoring drive started when Tom Danielson fumbled on his own 31 yard line. Kevin Klik kicked the extra point to give the guests a 7-0 lead.

Coach Emil Taft's squad added another seven points on the first play of the second quarter when Rietano hit Paul Sullivan with a 21-yard completion and Klik added the extra point to take a seemingly secure 14-0 cushion into intermission.

But the fired-up Eagles of Bill Davis weren't going to be denied and turned opportunistic by using the Ludlowe miscues to pull out the win. The first break came when Ludlowe punter Mark Greenwalt was not able to handle the snap from center and was brought down on his own 34 yard line.

Later, Aiello's 23-yard carry brought the ball down to the nine yard line, and two plays later Steve Cameron crossed the goal line with 3:23 remaining in the third quarter. Aiello fought his way into the end zone for two additional points.

The deciding touchdown came after tackle Julius Dudics pounced on a Ludlowe fumble at the Tigers' 31. A facemask penalty and a 12-yard run by Aiello put the pigskin on the eight yard line. On third-and-goal, quarterback Jim DelVecchio hit paydirt from one yard away to tie the score at 14-14 with 6:29 left in the game. Aiello again battled his way into the end zone for the deciding two points

Paul

Crimson Eagles' Gridders Posted Fifth Straight Victory by Defeating Staples 52 Years Ago Today During Undefeated State Championship Season

The unbeaten, untied Crimson Eagles of Andrew Warde High School were scored upon for the first time this season on their home field, but they overcame tough opposition from Staples to defeat the Wreckers, 14-6, to post their fifth straight football victory 52 years ago today.

Coach Fern Tetreau's talented Eagles appeared to be on their way to another decisive triumph when left halfback Jack Gill broke away for a 49-yard touchdown run off his own right tackle on Warde's second play from scrimmage to start the game. Right halfback Al Bennett rushed for the two-point conversion to give the hosts an 8-0 cushion.

However, the game developed into a dogfight from that point on, and coach Frank Dornfeld's combative Staples charges gave the Warde faithful anxious moments until the closing moments of play.

Although Staples outrushed the Crimson Eagles by a 156 to 114 yard margin, the Wreckers found Warde's strong defensive unit tough to crack until midway through the fourth quarter. Quarterback Bob Denham faked a jump pass over the line to end Nick Delgass and instead handed off to halfback Ted Dreyfuss who ran for 43 yards for the first points scored against Warde all season. Dreyfuss was stopped on the all-important two-point conversion attempt, but Staples was in the game and trailed 8-6.

The aroused Eagles stormed back on their ensuing possession, though, and engineered their best offensive drive of the day to wrap up the victory. Although they lost eight yards on two successive running plays after the kickoff, Warde quickly moved downfield when a pass from quarterback Joe Vige to end Jack Schneider was ruled complete for 24 yards and a first down to the Staples 39 yard line due to pass interference.

Stellar fullback Jack Flanagan, pictured above running against Staples in that very game and who saw limited action due to an injured leg, powered the drive from that point. He carried the ball eight times over the next 13 plays to account for 30 of the 39 yards during the drive. He bulled over the goal line from three yards out through tackle for Warde's winning touchdown. Schneider's attempted point-after kick, however, went wide of the goalposts.

Paul

Warde Cheerleaders Featured in Newspaper Article 45 Years Ago Today

"Yeah, rah, rah, Warde! W-A-R-D-E. What does it spell? Victory!"

The Andrew Warde High School cheerleaders were featured in a story and photo which appeared in The Bridgeport Sunday Post, October 16, 1966. The 1966-67 squad included captain Debbie Ciccia, co-captain Cindy Bernhard, Sue Poltrack, Edna Nardozzi, Lynn Wesche, Ellen Sheiman, Pat Thurston, Pat Tomlinson, Gina Zarilli, and Lyse Kalfus.

For the first time in the school's brief history, senior cheerleaders proudly displayed a badge on the arm of their sweaters which read, "Warde Cheerleader, 1966-67. Senior." The uniforms, which displayed a megaphone emblem and culottes for football games, and a vest with a megaphone emblem and culottes for basketball games, were brand new. All the cheerleaders, with the exception of the captain, were new to the squad, too.

After practicing three nights a week during the Summer, the squad quickly learned the traditional cheers in addition to two new cheers: "Go, Fight, Win," and "Battle Cry." Once the school year began, the squad continued to practice twice a week after school for one-and-a-half hours, and one day a week after school in the Winter.

Paul

Best Wishes to Andrew Warde High School's Class of 1961 on 50-Year Reunion This Evening

Best wishes to the members of the Andrew Warde High School Class of 1961 who are attending their 50-year reunion this evening.

Paul

Warde Gridders Suffered Lopsided Loss to Rival Ludlowe Before 8,000 Fans on This Date in 1969

The overcast sky forced Ludlowe to leave its wings in the hangar, but it certainly didn't affect its ground game as Emil Taft's Flying Tigers ripped Warde, 40-8, in the FCIAC Eastern Division feature contest at the Eagles' field before an estimated crowd of 8,000 fans on this date, Saturday, October 11, 1969.

The powerful legs of Ben Jacobellis, who scored a pair of touchdowns, Kevin Prendergast, and Chris Brown, offset a phenomenal passing exhibition by Warde's Chico Rodriguez as the state's second-ranked team toppled the Eagles from the unbeaten ranks to move into an Eastern Division first-place tie with New Canaan at 3-0. Ludlowe improved to 4-0 overall, while Coach Fern Tetreau's Crimson Eagles fell to 2-1 in conference play and 3-1 overall.

Ludlowe quarterback Mike Tetreau, the current first selectman of Fairfield and the son of the Warde coach, took control immediately after the opening kickoff and marched his team 56 yards in seven plays, capped by Prendergast's scoring run, to give the Tigers a 7-0 lead on their way to a 27-0 halftime cushion.

The high-scoring Tiger eleven, having already racked up 198 points in four successive romps, took advantage of a pair of Warde fumbles to notch two first-half touchdowns. Following the first Tiger score, the hosts fumbled on their 37-yard line, and Ludlowe's Scott Webster fell on the loose pigskin. Six plays later, Jacobellis ran for a 10-yard score. The first of four placement boots by Dave Seres gave Ludlowe a 14-0 edge.

Another Warde fumble paved the way for an eight-yard touchdown pass from Tetreau to senior end Hal Stone, who also played brilliantly on defense, as the Taftmen carved out a 20-0 advantage. The final six-pointer of the half was a nine-yard dash by Brown to close out the blitz.

The Eagles' lone trip to paydirt came early in the second half with Rodriguez hitting Steve Duboys on a 28-yard scoring aerial. Rodriguez added the PAT on a quarterback keeper.

Despite the fact that the Eagles' ground attack bogged down for most of the game, Coach Tetreau received a fine performance from Doug Forstrom, who was converted to fullback after starter Tim Carthens was injured two weeks earlier. Forstrom gained 68 yards, many of which were the result of sheer desire on his part.

Rodriguez enjoyed a banner day as he completed 23-of-40 passes for 277 yards, but two costly interceptions on the Ludlowe goal line by Marc Shaw and Seres neutralized his effectiveness.

The Ludlowe squad struck for two second-half scores as the fog lifted, allowing the younger Tetreau to become airbound once again by connecting with Seres on a 35-yard scoring strike. Jacobellis added his other touchdown on a five-yard scamper through the middle of the Warde line.

Paul

Warde Gridders Blasted Bullard Havens, 32-0, to Win Fourth Straight Game 52 Years Ago Today

Andrew Warde High School's high-scoring Crimson Eagles preserved their unbeaten and unscored-upon record by shutting out Bullard Havens Tech, 32-0, at the Warde field for their fourth straight shutout triumph to open the 1959 season. The Eagles became the only undefeated high school team in the Greater Bridgeport area 52 years ago today.

The Tigers were unable to cope with the tricky Warde offensive set-up which has the quarterback in an off-center position. That allows the center to either snap the ball to the quarterback or one of the other backs.

The job of frustrating the Tigers was done by a cohesive and hard-charging Eagle line which held Bullard Havens to minus nine yards on the ground.

Warde's diversified attack resulted in five different players scoring. The reserve team got into the act with a last quarter touchdown. Coach Fern Tetreau even had Jack Schneider attempt a seldom-seen field goal try in the last quarter.

The winners scored early in the first quarter on a drive which began at the Eagles' 31-yard line. Howie Ratner and Larry Gill did most of the legwork before Al Bennett hit Schneider in the end zone with a 15-yard scoring strike. Left halfback Ratner carried two would-be tacklers into the end zone for two points giving Warde an 8-0 advantage.


It wasn't long into the second period before the Eagles produced another sustained drive beginning at their own 23-yard line. They picked up five first downs prior to Ratner's scoring thrust which culminated the drive. The conversion try failed, however, and the Eagles led 14-0.

Warde took advantage of a short kick later in the period to make it 20-0 when Ratner hit right halfback Bennett with a pass to the one-yard line, and Ratner stepped in for the score. The conversion try failed, though.

Bullard Havens had a mild threat at the start of the second half, but Eagles' co-captain Walter Beck picked off a Fred Samoskevich pass. It took Warde just seven plays following the interception to score again as Gill slanted off right tackle and cut into the end zone for a touchdown to increase the Eagles' cushion to 26-0.

In the last quarter, Warde's reserves posted the final score of the contest when quarterback Joe Vige connected with John Horvat on a 35-yard touchdown strike.

Paul