Northwestern University Athletics
Daniel Bemus' Favorite Memory
11/15/2006 12:00:00 AM | General
Hometown Fan
There is no greater fan of the Wildcats than me. I grew up on Harrison Street, right behind the Evanston Theatre, and went to St.Athanasius all nine years including kindergarten. I used to play baseball and football on the practice fields, would go to the practices, I have even been on the cat walk in the basketball arena, way up high near the roof. I have sold pennants, programs, and was even an usher one year while with the scouts. I now live in St. Louis, and have even gone as far as sitting in my car, in the driveway, moving one foot forward or reverse to get the best reception late in the game.
My two greatest memories were on October 3, 1964, when Dick Butkus brought the Fighting Illini into Evanston. My brother turned 10 that day and I was eight. My mom took us over to try and buy tickets in the end zone seats. Back then, for big crowds, they would put up the temporary endzone seats. My mom couldn't get us in as the game was sold out. After the game, which Illinois won 17-6, I waited outside near the locker room for an hour but I got to see Dick Butkus walk right by me.
The second memory I have was on October 10, 1970. For four years I had gotten to know defensive back Phil Clark while carrying his helmet, getting chin straps, etc. Northwestern won that day 48-0, and Phil intercepted a pass late in the game and ran it back for a touchdown. I stayed in touch with Phil for awhile during his days with the Cowboys and the Bears.
I haven't talked with him in years and he has no way of knowing, that was the greatest thrill for me. He took time with me, made me feel very special, and I can still see Phil running that ball back!
I now have three boys, one is 11while the other two are younger. I would be honored to bring him to this big game, Andrew wants to go to NU, and I want show him why Northwestern is the best.
Thank you for the memories this has brought back just emailing in my story.
Daniel Bemus
