OT: Passing of a W.PA Football Legend

[pittdan77]

I don't know how many saw this but Bert Rechichar passed away over the weekend. He grew up in Belle Vernon, played football and baseball at Tennessee, and was a 2x NFL champ and pro bowler in the NFL. Also held the record for the longest field goal for a long time.

I grew up in the same neighborhood and was friends with his son so I was around him a lot. He was as tough as they came and had no trouble letting you know how he felt between beers. I could tell some stories. I never had an appreciation of his accomplishments when I was young. After reading Art Donovan's book "Fatso", it all made more sense and my Dad filled in the blanks.

Anyway, I thought I'd share. I haven't seen him in at least thirty years (probably more) but he's a character you can't forget.

http://www.baltimoresun.com/sports/...0190720-7jaanwt4o5dqjjilys2lnhotfa-story.html

 

[TempleBAPittMPA]

I did not know that the record kick was his very first NFL field goal attempt!

 

[pittdan77]

I did not know that the record kick was his very first NFL field goal attempt!

I think he fell in the "all around athlete" category. For the record, I recall reading that Don Shula hated him because he wasn't the hardest working player. And I believe that.

 

[Las Panteras]

His son was a helluva player for Monessen I believe

Part of the monessen " dream backfield " with JoJo Heath?

 

[TempleBAPittMPA]

His son was a helluva player for Monessen I believe

Part of the monessen " dream backfield " with JoJo Heath?

I'm remembering a Rechichar who played for Monessen, but that may have been a nephew.

 

[pittdan77]

I'm remembering a Rechichar who played for Monessen, but that may have been a nephew.

You might be right. I only knew his youngest son.

 

[mike 301]

I don't know how many saw this but Bert Rechichar passed away over the weekend. He grew up in Belle Vernon, played football and baseball at Tennessee, and was a 2x NFL champ and pro bowler in the NFL. Also held the record for the longest field goal for a long time.

I grew up in the same neighborhood and was friends with his son so I was around him a lot. He was as tough as they came and had no trouble letting you know how he felt between beers. I could tell some stories. I never had an appreciation of his accomplishments when I was young. After reading Art Donovan's book "Fatso", it all made more sense and my Dad filled in the blanks.

Anyway, I thought I'd share. I haven't seen him in at least thirty years (probably more) but he's a character you can't forget.

http://www.baltimoresun.com/sports/...0190720-7jaanwt4o5dqjjilys2lnhotfa-story.html

Im about half way through the book and I am not disappointed .
Art was always a treat when he was on TV . Especially Carson .