The USF Swim Team entered its sixth year of inter-collegiate competition in 1965. Four seniors were lost from last year's team. Returning lettermen Dave Taylor, Guy Brown, John Arras were able to lead the team to a fine season. A group of spirited freshmen Mike Restani, Tim Reid, Greg Mantle, Steve Maysonave, Hank Hunter, Fred Charpiot, to mention a few, showed great hope for the future. The Hilltop mermen competed against Cal State Hayward, Sacramento City College, Chabot Junior, Olympic Club, and the Treasure Island Swim Teams. Greater interest and support helped to make this team the largest ever assembled on the Hilltop (TheDon).
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Heart and courage characterized the USF Varsity team in 1968. Unfortunately the opponents the Dons met showed little recognition for these virtues. Completely outmanned in several games they played, the Hilltoppers finished the year with only 19 players and an 0-8-1 record, their worst effort since football returned to the Hilltop five years ago.
In his fifth year as head man, Coach Ron Pierceall saw his team decimated by crippling injuries and struggling to finish the schedule, and then sadly, the Don mentor resigned at the end of the season.Â
Besides the other losses, the Dons are losing some great talent. Graduating Seniors include linemen, Don Wood, Ken Pitetti and Jim Klaczak, end Phil Kelly; defensive star, John Ravarino, and all purpose Gil Awalt. But despite these losses, next year looks promising for USF football.
With the institution of the USF Gridiron Club to provide outside support, 20 returning veterans to provide the nucleus, and new coach, Vince Tringali, to provide the leadership, the Green and gold should rise again (TheDon).
