"Talkin’ Old School” With Roger Franklin Williams

Frank Pomarico, from Howard Beach, New York, moved into the starting lineup at left guard during his sophomore year in 1971 at Notre Dame. He remained a fixture for the Irish through the 1973 season when he was named tri-captain, along with Dave Casper and Mike Townsend.There were bigger players for the Irish, faster players, and players who went on to stellar professional careers. But no one cherished his role as a leader of the Notre Dame squad more than the 6-foot-1, 250-pound Pomarico. His journey to and through Notre Dame truly was a labor of love toward his alma mater.Here is Pomarico's story as told to Irish Illustrated senior editor Tim Prister, the author/editor of What It Means To Be Fighting Irish (copyright 2004, Triumph Books, Chicago, Ill.)Notre Dame was a simple choice for me. When I was growing up in New York, Gerry DiNardo and I were classmates in grade school and high school, and his brother, Larry, was someone we looked up to.So now I get to high school, Larry goes to Notre Dame, Gerry and I are sophomores in high school, and Larry comes back talking about this guy named Ara Parseghian. Of course, Larry could have gone to any school he wanted. All the academies, Harvard…but he picked Notre Dame because I think he thought that was his greatest challenge athletically as well as academically. Our goal was, 'Maybe someday that can happen to us.'My senior year I was recruited by North Carolina and Notre Dame. Places like Villanova said I was too small. Most other schools thought I was too small. I was 6-foot-1, about 235 when I came to Notre Dame.Ara took a chance on me. He had success with Larry and thought, 'Let's see if we can have a warm body with Frank.'I knew all about Ara before I got there. Ara was a very, very impressive guy. He's got these piercing eyes that make you stand at attention, and everything he said was gobbled up because we felt if we wanted to be successful as a team, as individuals we were going to try to emulate his intensity, his character. That was something that we believed in. Even if you lost games, you would still win by showing your character and strong will.Ara instilled in us that the game may be over and we may have lost the battle, but we didn't lose the war. We were always trying to achieve and improve on the athletic field, as individuals, or in the classroom. So it was never really lost; time just ran out. He used to talk about not having a breaking point.When I think of my greatest memories at Notre Dame, the first one was my sophomore year (1971) against Northwestern when we came out of that tunnel. It was more than just coming out of the tunnel. It was also the feeling and emotion that was shared with me by guys like Walt Patulski, Dan Novokov, John Dampeer, Andy Huff, Ed Gulyas, John Cieszkowski…They were supportive. These guys were saying, 'You're going to do it; it's going to be easier than practice!' So we go out, score the first touchdown over my hole, and went on to win, 50-7.The most satisfying game was the Southern Cal game in 1973 (a 23-14 victory). They were national champs in 1972 and 1974, and when we played them in 1973, we were 5-0. The first four games of that year I had ripped up my ankle and I was in a cast for about a month. I came back for the Rice game and only played on an extra point. I started the Army game and I probably wasn't ready, but I wanted to come back. I knew if I didn't come back for the Army game, I probably wouldn't play against Southern Cal.We had a strong ground game. We were going to grind it out. We weren't going to win on the big play. The buildup to that game after Anthony Davis had scored six touchdowns the year before was intense. Playing against them was an emotional, electric time.We did (grind it out against them), but we also had an 85-yard touchdown run by Eric Penick, so we did beat them with the big play as well.My college career culminated with the (24-23) victory over Alabama in the Sugar Bowl to win the national title. It was overwhelming. Seven years of dreaming ended in the locker room with myfather, my grandfather, and my little brother, not yelling and screaming, but just watching everybody go crazy. I don't think we had the animosity toward Alabama that we had toward Southern Cal, but it was a humongous victory for us.That year, Ara had broken precedent by making three of us captains. I think it was very close in the voting between me and David Casper as the offensive captain. So Dave was the team captain, I was the offensive captain, and Mike Townsend was the defensive captain, so to speak. We all had different roles. I was more of a quiet leader. I tried to lead by example through hard work during the off-season and tried to do the right thing.One time somebody asked me if the tradition of Rockne and Gipper helped us in our games, and I said, 'The tradition here is the guys I'm with right now that make it such a special place. They're the guys who help me. Because of the people, there is no place in the world quite like Notre Dame.Frank Pomarico, is in sales in Jackson, Mich. He also coaches tight ends and tackles at Lumen Christi High School, where his son, Tommy, starred the in 2005 and 2006.  Tommy went on to the University of Michigan to become a three year starter for the Wolverines as a long snapper and played in the Gator Bowl and finished his career in the Sugar Bowl victory at the end of the 2011 season.  We thank Lloyd Carr at the University of Michigan for having faith in Tom’s ability to play there."People say to me, 'How can you send your son to Michigan?' Pomarico laughed. "I tell them, 'I pray for Notre Dame, but, now I root for Michigan.'Pomarico does a radio show with former UNLV football coach Harvey Hyde (1982-85) in Las Vegas and still loves talking about Notre Dame Football. Like Irish fans, he sees the upcoming schedule as rigorous, but views it with encouragement and confidence in Brian Kelly’s ability to take Notre Dame to new heights in the future.

Kyle Macy:

High School: Peru 1975
College: University of Kentucky 1980

3-year starter at Peru under his Hall of Fame father, Bob … scored 2,137 points during H.S. career … Mr. Basketball 1975 … played freshman year at Purdue … during 3-year University of Kentucky career received Pan Am Gold Medal, Academic All-American 1978, All-SEC 1978, 79, 80, Mid-East Regional MVP 1978, Academic All-SEC 1978 … Leadership Award 3 years, MVP 1979, 1980, SEC Tourney MVP 1979 … SEC Male Athlete of the Year 1980 … Sullivan Award, Male Student of the Year 1980 … All-American 1979-80 … during his career at Univ. of Kentucky won 1 National Title, 2 SEC championships & 2 times SEC tourney runnerup … played professionally for Phoenix Suns, Chicago Bulls, Indiana Pacers, & in Italy … became head coach for Morehead State University in 1997.

Doug Plank is a former safety who played for 8 seasons from 1975-1982. Doug is a master of all trades: from Burger King franchisee to broadcaster to football coach, and many other crafts in-between.

Scott Williams is the head coach of the Apopka High School boys basketball team, leading the Blue Darters to competitive seasons, including a 2024-25 district title and a regional final appearance. With over 570 career wins and a 1997 state championship, Williams is recognized for rebuilding programs, fostering a tough competitive culture, and utilizing a high-volume three-point shooting philosophy.

Roger Franklin Williams Talking Old School: Saturday edition.

James Edward McKnight (born June 17, 1972) is an American former professional football wide receiver in the National Football League (NFL) for the Seattle Seahawks, Dallas Cowboys, Miami Dolphins and New York Giants. He played college football for the Liberty Flames.

Vito Ferra is the owner of https://www.networksoundandvideo.com/

In depth interviews with Hall of Famers & Legends from "back in the day" and commentary that honors & promotes the Old School values of Hard Work, Teamwork and Respect for the Game AND God, Family, Country.

Scott Sturgill (Republican Party) ran for election to the U.S. House to represent Florida's 7th Congressional District. He lost in the Republican primary on August 23, 2022.

Sturgill was a 2014 Republican candidate for District 30 of the Florida House of Representatives.

BiographyEmail [email protected] to notify us of updates to this biography.

Sturgill's professional experience includes working as the chief executive officer of Durable Safety Products

Stephanie Ziglar, as the Executive Director of Curry Ford West Main Street, plays a pivotal role in the revitalization and development of the Curry Ford West area. With over 15 years of experience working with non-profits, Stephanie brings a wealth of knowledge, expertise, and a deep commitment to community development to her role. Additionally, as a third-generation resident of Curry Ford West, she possesses a profound personal connection to the area, which fuels her dedication to its progress and well-being. In her position, Stephanie is responsible for strategic planning and the execution of various initiatives aimed at enhancing the economic, cultural, and social vitality of the district. Her work involves close collaboration with local businesses, residents, and government agencies to foster a vibrant and cohesive community atmosphere. Key responsibilities under her leadership include organizing community events, securing funding and grants, promoting local businesses, and spearheading beautification projects to improve the district's aesthetic appeal. Through her efforts, Stephanie aims to drive community engagement, stimulate economic growth, and ensure the sustainable development of Curry Ford West, making it a thriving and attractive area for both residents and visitors. Her leadership and vision are instrumental in shaping the future of the Curry Ford West area, reflecting her deep-rooted commitment to her community.

Nick Balevich is head of the North Seminole Republican club:

Nick's contact info:

[email protected]

[email protected]

321-696-9490

https://www.networksoundandvideo.com/

Network Sound and Video, Inc. was established in 1980 and founded by Vito Fera. 

Network Sound and Video is a leader in the audio and video transfer industry for 40 years.  We know how valuable your precious memories are to you and pride ourselves on the high quality of our service.  You won't be 'just a number' with us.

Our staff treats each and every order with absolute care.  Since all work is done right here in our studios, we can offer you hands-on personalized service like no other and you won't have to wait 8 weeks for a VHS transfer, like the competition. 

Preserving your memories is what we do.  All orders are absolutely guaranteed.  Please contact us with any questions, comments or concerns.  We're at your service!

Here are just a few things we specialize in:  audio and video restoration, video production, audio mastering, CD and DVD duplication and replication, video filming, video editing, VHS tape transfers, records to CD, reel to reel transfers, standard 8mm, super 8mm and 16mm movie film to DVD service.   

Network Sound And Video has been guiding businesses, corporations, musicians and songwriters on all matters of CD and DVD production and duplication for decades.  We have the experience and knowledge behind us to produce for you the utmost professional video or audio project, whether you need one or 1000 copies.  You can feel confident knowing your project is in our hands.

Service Area: Orlando, Tampa, Jacksonville, Miami, Pensacola, Florida and National Services Provided.

Network Sound And Video offers only the highest quality products, exceptional personal customer service and timely delivery at the most affordable price.  We live by and operate our business with our core values front and center.All work is done in-house.

We encourage you to stop by our Longwood - Orlando retail location 
studios to discuss all of your audio or video needs.   

Free EstimatesOffice hours are:  
Monday through Thursday  10:00 to 6:00   
Friday  10:00 to 5:00
407.834.8555  Core Values:
1. To act in such a manner as to uphold personal and professional honor and integrity.
2. To make Godly choices. (Matthew 7:24)
3. To treat others the way we want to be treated.  (Luke 6:31)

Paul Lounsberry is a veteran American football coach, best known as a long-time offensive line assistant at UCF (1987–2000) and for his tenure at Winter Park High School (2013–2016). He is credited with coaching notable players like Daunte Culpepper and Mike Gruttadauria, and is recognized for his expertise in the "shield punt" formation. 

• Coaching Career: Lounsberry had a 41-year coaching career, including stints at Wolfson High School, Westover High School, the University of Florida, and UCF.
• UCF Tenure: During his time at UCF (1987–2000), he served as offensive line coach and, at times, special teams coach or offensive coordinator. He was part of the staff that recruited and developed QB Daunte Culpepper.
• High School Coach: He coached at Winter Park High School from 2013 until his retirement in 2016.
• Specialties: He is an expert in the shield punt technique and published a DVD on the subject.
• Post-Retirement: As of 2024, Lounsberry continues to be involved with the UCF football program, offering insights, in-depth analysis on podcasts such as Sons of UCF, and connecting with former players

Nick Balevich is head of the North Seminole Republican club:

Nick's contact info:

[email protected]

[email protected]

321-696-9490

Doug Plank is a former safety who played for 8 seasons from 1975-1982. Doug is a master of all trades: from Burger King franchisee to broadcaster to football coach, and many other crafts in-between.

How He Prepared for Life After Football

"I always tried to prepare for the day football was over. Every offseason when I was with the Chicago Bears, I managed to make more money than I did in the regular season. I knew I could survive and have success after football. I did that by continually pushing myself in the offseason: ‘What could I do? What skill could I acquire? What license could I go out and get?’"

“I knew I could survive and have success after football. I did that by continually pushing myself in the offseason: ‘What could I do? What skill could I acquire? What license could I go out and get?’”

"I had a real estate license, I had a loan origination license, I was a contractor, I could build buildings, I went and took a health license, etc. I wanted to prepare for what could be a quick ending of football, and mine was. I happened to suffer a spinal concussion with the Chicago Bears my eighth year, and it kept me from playing. So, I leaned back on those things I had prepared myself for."

"In 1982, the Chicago Bears set me up to sign autographs for a Burger King restaurant, and I met the franchisee. He gave me instructions on how to become a Burger King franchisee, which I ended up doing for a total of 12 years. Even before my career was over, I was an approved Burger King franchisee. I had a wife and two kids - there had to be something after football. Being an owner-operator of Burger King allowed me to use all of those skills I had developed in the offseasons. I used my real estate license, my contractor license to build the building, the loan origination license to get financing, my insurance license to get liability insurance on my property, etc."

About Coach DarlingtonHead Football Coach
Deland High School

Career Record: 251-95 (28 seasons)
Reached Playoffs in 26 of 28 years as a head coach
All-time central Florida leader in playoff victories (43)

STATE CHAMPIONSHIPS: Apopka ’01, ’12, & ‘14
STATE RUNNER-UP: Apopka ‘13 & Valdosta ‘03
STATE FINAL 4 (semifinals): Deland ‘23, Apopka ’07 & ‘09
STATE ELITE 8 (quarterfinals): Enterprise ‘21, Apopka ‘08, Valdosta ‘04

DELAND, FL: ’22 to present
In 2 years, the Bulldogs have won Back-to-Back District titles (last title was 11 years ago).  The ’22 team broke the school single season scoring record (33 ppg), and the ’23 team shattered that record at 40 ppg.  2023 Region Champions (1st time since 2009) and state Semi-Finalist in largest classification.  Quarterback has had back to back season of more than 1,200 yards rushing AND passing, and this fall threw 21 TD passes with ZERO interceptions.  Wingback also rushed for 1,000 yards and had 900 yards receiving.

ENTERPRISE, AL: ’19-‘21
Took over a program coming off back to back 2-8 seasons.  Year 1 started 2-5, but turned it around and made the 7A playoffs in Maxpreps 3rd toughest playoff bracket in the country. Year 2 averaged 36 ppg and again made the playoffs.  Year 3, scored 41 ppg (3rd in 7A behind the teams playing for state), led the entire state of Alabama in rushing, and had 2 1,000 yard rushers. Finished in the Elite 8 (quarterfinals) in 7A.

APOPKA, FL: ’99-’02 & ’06-‘18
2013 team set a state record with 752 points, averaging 50.1 ppg over 15 games, and rushed for 6,000 yards.  The ’13, ’14, & ’15 teams each had THREE 1,000 yard rushers each season.
OBJECTIVE AS A HEAD COACH
To build a championship football program with young men of character and humility
that the community, school, and parents can be proud of both on and off the field. Our
mission is to build men who are not only successful, but are significant in the lives of others.

He and his wife, Shelly, have been married 33 years and have 4 sons, 3 daughters, 3 grandchildren (and counting…)

Vito Fera is the owner of Network Sound and Video, https://www.networksoundandvideo.com/

Vision: Every student graduates prepared and inspired for a thriving future.

Mission: Together with our families and the community, we empower students with a superior academic experience, essential life skills, and boundless opportunities.

Address: 555 W. Martin St., Apopka, Florida 32712-3544

Phone: 407-905-5500

Principal: Lyle Heinz

Mascot: Blue Darter

Colors: Blue, White

School Hours: 7:20 a.m. – 2:20 p.m. (M, T, H, F) 1:10 (W)

Grades: 9 – 12

Scott Harrell, Executive Director of Fresh Start Ministries:

407-293-3822

[email protected]

4436 Edgewater Drive, Orlando, FL. 32804

www.freshstartministries.com

Our Beliefs:

We believe in one eternal God, creator of all things, infinitely perfect, existing in three persons; the Father, the Son and the Holy Spirit.

We believe in the Holy Scriptures, the Old and New Testaments, which are inspired by God and written by men, and are the basis for which we live.

We believe that Jesus Christ is the only begotten son of God, born of the Virgin Mary, who was crucified, dead and buried, and rose again on the third day and sits at the right hand of God, the Father, in heaven. Jesus Christ was the final sacrifice and redeemed us from all of our sins and gave all who believe the same power, faith and authority through His name to overcome and to give service to His commission to us (Mark 16:15-20).

We believe that the Holy Spirit, is the Spirit and Power of Christ, and our comforter, teacher, healer, deliverer, guide, equipper, convictor and gift-giver, and empowers us to live holy lives in service to God. We believe that the Holy Spirit is a whole Person and dwells in every believer and all of His Spiritual giftings are available for use upon His will, as the believer yields to Him.

We believe that no man can come to the Father but through faith and belief in the Lord Jesus Christ; that only through Jesus Christ can one be saved, healed and delivered. We further believe that we are being perfected and prepared for the return of our Lord Jesus Christ, to gather His believers, to live and reign with Him in the Kingdom of God and live eternally with God.

About Coach Darlington Head Football Coach
Deland High School

Career Record: 251-95 (28 seasons)
Reached Playoffs in 26 of 28 years as a head coach
All-time central Florida leader in playoff victories (43)

STATE CHAMPIONSHIPS: Apopka ’01, ’12, & ‘14
STATE RUNNER-UP: Apopka ‘13 & Valdosta ‘03
STATE FINAL 4 (semifinals): Deland ‘23, Apopka ’07 & ‘09
STATE ELITE 8 (quarterfinals): Enterprise ‘21, Apopka ‘08, Valdosta ‘04

DELAND, FL: ’22 to present
In 2 years, the Bulldogs have won Back-to-Back District titles (last title was 11 years ago).  The ’22 team broke the school single season scoring record (33 ppg), and the ’23 team shattered that record at 40 ppg.  2023 Region Champions (1st time since 2009) and state Semi-Finalist in largest classification.  Quarterback has had back to back season of more than 1,200 yards rushing AND passing, and this fall threw 21 TD passes with ZERO interceptions.  Wingback also rushed for 1,000 yards and had 900 yards receiving.

ENTERPRISE, AL: ’19-‘21
Took over a program coming off back to back 2-8 seasons.  Year 1 started 2-5, but turned it around and made the 7A playoffs in Maxpreps 3rd toughest playoff bracket in the country. Year 2 averaged 36 ppg and again made the playoffs.  Year 3, scored 41 ppg (3rd in 7A behind the teams playing for state), led the entire state of Alabama in rushing, and had 2 1,000 yard rushers. Finished in the Elite 8 (quarterfinals) in 7A.

APOPKA, FL: ’99-’02 & ’06-‘18
2013 team set a state record with 752 points, averaging 50.1 ppg over 15 games, and rushed for 6,000 yards.  The ’13, ’14, & ’15 teams each had THREE 1,000 yard rushers each season.

Jack Youngblood, a 6-4, 247-pound All-American from the University of Florida, excelled for 14 seasons with the Los Angeles Rams from 1971 to 1984. As the 20th player selected in the first round of the 1971 draft, Youngblood made his presence felt almost immediately.

He did so well as a backup to superstar "Deacon" Jones at left defensive end as a rookie that the Rams traded Jones before the 1972 season. Youngblood divided his playing time with Fred Dryer that year, then took over as the starting left defensive end in his third campaign in 1973. He played with distinction at that position the rest of his 202-game career.

Youngblood, who was born January 26, 1950, in Jacksonville, Florida, was rugged, determined, a dominant defender and the Rams’ perennial quarterback sack leader. He played in a Rams-record 201 consecutive games and only missed one game in 14 seasons, that one miss coming in his final year in 1984.

The Rams’ defensive captain, he was a three-time winner of the Dan Reeves Award, given to that team’s most valuable player each season. Youngblood was All-Pro in 1974, 1975, 1976, 1978 and 1979 and All-NFC seven times. He played in seven consecutive Pro Bowls following each season from 1973 to 1979.

During his tenure, the Rams played in five NFC championship games and advanced to Super Bowl XIV following the 1979 season. In a first-round playoff game that year, Youngblood suffered a fractured left fibula. However, he was fitted with a plastic brace and he played every defensive down in both the NFC title game and Super Bowl XIV against the Pittsburgh Steelers.

One of Youngblood's most outstanding single-game performances came against the St. Louis Cardinals in a 1975 playoff game. He recorded one sack, forced a fumble, blocked an extra-point attempt and returned an interception 47 yards for a touchdown.

Bill Curry:

The Player

As a player, Bill learned the game from such legendary masters as Bobby Dodd, Vince Lombardi, and Don Shula. He snapped the ball to a who's who list of quarterbacks, including Bart Starr, Johnny Unitas, and Billy Lothridge. He was a two-time Pro Bowl center and a three-time NFL Champion, including victories in Super Bowls I and V.

The Coach

As a coach, Bill restored the Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets to national prominence. At the University of Alabama, where he was named Bobby Dodd National Coach of the Year, Bill led the Tide to an SEC Championship and to berths in the Hall of Fame Bowl, the Sun Bowl, and the Sugar Bowl. At Kentucky, Bill led his Wildcats to their first bowl game in nearly a decade. In 2008, Bill became the first head coach at Georgia State, who played its inaugural season in 2010. Bill's honors and awards include the 2007 Amos Alonzo Stagg Award, given for his lifetime work advancing the best interests of football; the 2008 Gerald R. Ford Legends Center Award, given for his lifetime of outstanding contributions, both within and outside the game of football; and the 2012 Intellectual Property Legends Award, presented for significant contribution in the field of Intellectual Property and significant impact upon one's peers and community.

Mike Ditka, the No. 1 draft pick of the Chicago Bears in 1961, introduced a new dimension to the tight end position that once was viewed primarily as an assignment for a tough, talented blocker. Ditka proved to be a superior blocker, but he also became one of the first tight ends to catch a large number of passes.

He startled opponent defenses with 56 catches for 1,076 yards and 12 touchdowns in his Rookie of the Year campaign in 1961. Three years later, he had 75 receptions, a season record for tight ends that lasted until 1980 and the era of the 16-game season. The 6-3, 225-pound native of Carnegie, Pennsylvania, was a consensus All- American in 1960 while playing for the University of Pittsburgh.

He moved into the Bears' starting lineup at the beginning of his rookie season and didn't miss a start in 84 games with the Bears. He earned All-NFL honors four straight seasons from 1961 through 1964 and was a Pro Bowl choice after each of his first five seasons. He wound up his 12-year career with 427 receptions for 5,812 yards and 43 touchdowns.

At the time of his retirement after the 1972 season, he ranked second among all tight ends in receptions. In 1967, Ditka was traded to the Philadelphia Eagles. An injury in the second game that year aborted his consecutive-game streak at 86. He missed eight games in two years with the Eagles before moving on to the Dallas Cowboys in 1969. The fiercely determined and competitive Ditka regained much of his old form in four years in Dallas. His best campaign there was in 1971 when the Cowboys won their first Super Bowl championship. Ditka had 30 receptions that year and he scored the final touchdown in Dallas' 24-3 win over the Miami Dolphins in Super Bowl VI.

Tonight's guests were former player for the Buffalo Bills and Florida Blazers, Mike McBath and Show Host of the www.americanadversaries.com radio show, Christopher Hart as Football was discussed with the upcoming SuperGame this weekend!

Jeremy Langford is with Apopka High School's Band program and Coach Scott Garland is with Apopka High School's Baseball program. Apopka High School is in Apopka in northwest Orange County, Florida, United States. 

Talking Old School with Roger Franklin Williams is Live every Wednesdaty and features In depth interviews with Hall of Famers & Legends from "back in the day" and commentary that honors & promotes the Old School values of Hard Work, Teamwork and Respect for the Game AND God, Family, Country.

Talking Old School with Roger Franklin Williams is Live every Wednesdaty and features In depth interviews with Hall of Famers & Legends from "back in the day" and commentary that honors & promotes the Old School values of Hard Work, Teamwork and Respect for the Game AND God, Family, Country.

Talking Old School with Roger Franklin Williams is Live every Wednesdaty and features In depth interviews with Hall of Famers & Legends from "back in the day" and commentary that honors & promotes the Old School values of Hard Work, Teamwork and Respect for the Game AND God, Family, Country.