growing up green: newark catholic football and the 1985 state championship

In 1985, the Newark Catholic High School football team finished with a perfect 14-0 record and won its fourth state playoff championship. The championship was also the second in the incredible string of four-in-a-row that occurred in the mid-1980's. The 1985 season was an amazing and unexpected feat when one considers that 20 starters from the 1984 championship team were lost to graduation. The year that brought the biggest rebuilding job ever turned out to be one of the greatest.

Growing Up Green is a detailed journey of the 1985 football team from day one of summer conditioning to the post-season awards banquet. Each opposing team is discussed in detail. Play-by-play is provided for all games including the Division V semifinal thriller against Mogadore and the hard-hitting title game against Delphos Jefferson. Get a fascinating inside look at the legendary Newark Catholic football program. Experience the heartbreaks and celebrations of a group of average kids as they struggle through an incredible season and fulfill a dream. A truly inspiring story for any athlete Reviews

"There's high school football- then, there's REAL high school football. Newark Catholic embraces what high school football embodies. I've been a huge fan of the program for many years and Bill's book shows what it takes to make a championship program and the dedication that's required to be #1."
George Lehner
Sports Director
610 WTVN Radio, Columbus, Ohio

"Outstanding I was captivated with each chapter and lost a lot of sleep reading late into the night."
-Joe Bell
New Albany, Oh

"I've never read a book that was so graphic with it's descriptions of each football play. It should certainly be a help to those who may not understand the sport of football."