I will never forget the day I received my freshman football jersey; as I entered the equipment room, Coach Occh looked at me, smiled. He bit the first knuckle of right hand, “I’ve been waiting for you” he said to me with a determined look on his face. He then proceeded to reach up on the top shelf and grab a jersey that he had previously set aside. He unfolded the jersey exposing a large number 79 across the chest. “This was my number” he said, “and I’ve been saving it for you!” His face lit up with the pride of a father bestowing a legacy upon his son and he merely said “Make me proud.”
It was also on that day that Dom Occhipinti became the man that I looked to as a leader, a guide, and as a friend. This quest for making him proud stayed with me not only through my years playing under him, but through all my years. It translated not only into football, but into other sports, and more so, it translated into my life.
I wore and cherish the number 79 not for myself, but as I always have, for Dom Occhipinti. I know I made him proud.
There are some people that really make a difference in our lives...Dom was one of those people. We've known few people that were more dynamic, intense, devoted and who just made you feel good by being there. Dom, we miss your vitality, inspiration...you.
Old Guys: Dean Owens, Gary Kendrick, Jim Parton, Dave Boyd, Gary Hulsey, Chuck Farrah, Larry Hulsey, Dom Occhipinti (We have been getting together since high school)
We truly lost a great soul the day Dom passed. He was my friend and protector in high school. I wouldn't have gone to the senior night if it wasn't for Dom. I can remember leaving school to go to his house for a barbeque. I could go on many memories.....He's been missed.......
Chuck Farrah (1969)
Dom, We miss you everyday.
Chuck & Kaye Farrah
Ron Bartleet (1979)
I will never forget the day I received my freshman football jersey; as I entered the equipment room, Coach Occh looked at me, smiled. He bit the first knuckle of right hand, “I’ve been waiting for you” he said to me with a determined look on his face. He then proceeded to reach up on the top shelf and grab a jersey that he had previously set aside. He unfolded the jersey exposing a large number 79 across the chest. “This was my number” he said, “and I’ve been saving it for you!” His face lit up with the pride of a father bestowing a legacy upon his son and he merely said “Make me proud.”
It was also on that day that Dom Occhipinti became the man that I looked to as a leader, a guide, and as a friend. This quest for making him proud stayed with me not only through my years playing under him, but through all my years. It translated not only into football, but into other sports, and more so, it translated into my life.
I wore and cherish the number 79 not for myself, but as I always have, for Dom Occhipinti. I know I made him proud.
Warrior Pride!
Dean Owens (1969)
There are some people that really make a difference in our lives...Dom was one of those people. We've known few people that were more dynamic, intense, devoted and who just made you feel good by being there. Dom, we miss your vitality, inspiration...you.
Old Guys: Dean Owens, Gary Kendrick, Jim Parton, Dave Boyd, Gary Hulsey, Chuck Farrah, Larry Hulsey, Dom Occhipinti (We have been getting together since high school)
Judy Trombetta (1969)
We truly lost a great soul the day Dom passed. He was my friend and protector in high school. I wouldn't have gone to the senior night if it wasn't for Dom. I can remember leaving school to go to his house for a barbeque. I could go on many memories.....He's been missed.......