Fullback on USF’s powerful teams in the late 1970s and early 1980s…four-year letter winner (1979-1982)…played in 79 career games and totaled two goals and 10 assists from his fullback position…played on USF’s 1980 NCAA Championship team…scored both of his goals in 1981 as a junior, including a game-tying goal with eight minutes left against top-ranked University of Conn in the Dons 2-1 victory on Oct. 2, 1981…known for his booming shot and long throw-ins…former member of prestigious Blue Football Club of Holland.
Also there is a question about the USFÂ depth as the talent on the bench is not as abundant as it has been in the past. Three players who can strengthen it are midfielders Vidar Larsen and Per Lindstrom and defender Jan Elberse. The defense's statistics become even more remarkable when the number of injuries is taken into consideration. Jo Bergsvand was starting at left halfback until the injury to Van Straatum moved him up into thc midfield. There was no doubt about Jan Elberse's ability to fill in but then Nick Lambridis was forced to miss eight games with an ankle injury. However Coach Negoesco was able to go to the bench and get fine performances from Vidar Larsen and John Alexander.
The ball made its way outside the circle where it was picked up by Junior midfielder Glen Van Straatum. Van Straatum was in scoring position and with his strong foot, expected to try for the goal. "The UConn defense was coming at me, they were expecting me to shoot," said Van Straatum. Glen looked to his right and spotted teammate Jan Elberse. "I have the tendency to give the ball to the player in the better position," added Van Straatum. That is exactly what he did, as Elberse received the pass and sent the ball through the lines right into the goal. It was the tieing goal, but even more important, it was a fine display of a team effort (TheFoghorn).
