Posted Tuesday, February 08, 2005 by Mike ODonnell

It was Friday Night in White Plains, The Gym was packed, the Jungle was ready to rumble. It was a great event in Stepinac History. The former Athletes of Stepinac High school, who made it to the highest level in each of thier fields of play, came back to be honored in front of a packed house. Brian Sweeney now with theTampa Bay Devil Rays came even though it was his wedding anniversary last night & he reports to Spring training on Wed. Brian received his award from Coach O'D his football coach at Stepinac.
Eric Ogbogu came all the way from Dallas, where he plays in his 7th season for the Cowboys. Eric & his family spent the day talking to kids about thier future. He stopped at Immaculate Conception in morning [his grade school]. Then on to Stepinac to speak to members of the Football & basketball team. He then went to pep rally & talk to everyone who wanted to. Ogbogu was loving being back at Stepinac & being with the kids. He is probably more well known for his Under Armour commercials &
"You gotta protect your house".
Eric received his award from Coach Henderson & Coach O'D.
Ralph Russo who played for the Boston Red Sox, also coaches our Varsity basketball team, was honored by his former coach Bud Tolomer. Coach Russo spent countless hours getting all the Jerseys on the wall. The night couldn't have went off with out his dedication to Stepinac.
Marty Conlon who spent 8 years in NBA, came back with his family. He was coached at Stepinac by Coach O'D, Paul Thomas & head Coach Gene Doris, who was also in attendance. Marty is still playing for the Irish National team.
Bob Hyland was next to be honored, it was very fitting that Mr Don Larkin to give Bob his award. Bob played for the Green Bay Packers, was a #1 draft pick by Vince Lombardi . Bob played & won Super Bowl II. Bob has been a very active supporter of the alumni association.
Over 100 Alumni crowded into the Luxury Box above the gym to watch the Iona Prep Stepinac Basketball game.
It was a great night at Stepinac.
It was a night that made you proud to be a Crusader.
Bob Hyland gave a short speach & talked about what a great school Stepinac is.
"Stepinac ,It's a school that keeps giving "!