Joe was introduced by hammer throwing alums John McCree (class of 75) and Rich Torrellas (class of 72). Both men asked to introduce Joe as he played such a substantial roll in their careers in track and field as athletes, coaches and officials. Joe has inculcated in them a love for both their sport and giving back to the generations that have followed them.
Joe chose to focus on the 1961 Metropolitan Championship of 50 years ago. 1961 was the year when St John's broke the stranglehold of Manhattan College in the Metropolitan area. He described how the team had progressed from being crushed by Manhattan College on Oct 14 to turning the tables at the Mets on Nov 7. In just 3 weeks through good coaching and team spirit.
50 years have passed but the memory is still vivid and special. To exceed expectations collectively on the day, when it counts most, results in a proud memory that never fades and fuels the desire to sense that pride again by helping others attain similar goals.
Joe encouraged all that attended to give back and to enable others to achieve their moment of greatness. For those that benefited from their Experience on St John's Track Team, Joe suggested a contribution to the Tom Farrell fund - see Coach Hurt for details via email: hurtj@stjohns.edu
Joe Lang with the heavies: Rich Torrellas and John McCree
Rich Torellas, Coach Jim Hurt and St John's alumna Connie Stoll a member of 2 Olympic Teams: Helsinki 1952 and Melbourne 1956:
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