In September, we welcomed back the “the greatest team ever.” The two-day celebration, brimming with nostalgia, paid tribute to the 50th anniversary of the historic victory of the 1974 State Championship Football Team – the first of 9 State Championships from legendary Coach Al Fracassa.
The festivities kicked off with a cocktail reception followed by an intimate Champions Dinner. Laughter and tales of triumph filled the air as attendees raised their glasses in a heartfelt “Champions” toast. In a poignant highlight of the evening, the indomitable Coach Al Fracassa was honored with the Blessed Edmund Rice Medal, recognizing his leadership, dedication, and enduring impact on the school and his players. The evening culminated as players reflected upon the positive impact that Brother Rice, their coaches, and teammates have made in their journey as men. Each spoke with profound gratitude for the 50 years of faith, friendship, and football that they have enjoyed over the past half decade.
The following day, the 1974 Champs made a triumphant return to campus, igniting a buzz of excitement among the students. The “Warrior Pep Rally,” was enthusiastically led by Athletic Director Jeff Calcaterra ‘88, honoring tradition and showcased an exciting display of school spirit. Each 1974 player and coach was introduced with pride and escorted to center court while the gym pulsated with Warrior energy. Jim Lievois ‘74 delivered an inspiring speech on the essence of champions, imparting words of wisdom and encouraging students to recognize the gift that is Brother Rice High School. The rally reached a crescendo with a Band of Brothers Bench Press competition, the resounding notes of the Warrior fight song, and the timeless cheer “We Are…Brother Rice!”
As the evening approached, the celebration continued with a pre-game tailgate in the shadow of the goalposts at Lawrence Technological University. The alumni team took part in the pregame activities highlighted by a motivating team talk with Coach Aaron Marshall. This heartfelt interaction forged a bond between the past and present, bridging the years with wisdom and shared camaraderie.
The final highlight of the weekend’s festivities saw the Warriors square off against River Rouge High School. A packed student section created a “white out” with their Warrior spirit wear. A triumphant victory for the Warriors punctuated an exhilarating night, and the touching grand finale came as Coach Marshall recognized Coach Fracassa and the 1974 team in his postgame speech, signifying the respect and honor of tradition.
Eighty state championships later, across ten different sports—the most of any high school in Michigan—Brother Rice has built a national reputation for excellence both on and off the field. That legacy of success traces back to our first state football title: the 1974 football championship. Wearing the Brother Rice uniform and being called a “Champion” is an honor that must be earned. To the champions of this team, we proudly say, “Once a Champion, Always a Champion.”
We would like to thank the cadre of teammates who through the years have supported team reunions and celebrations. In a special way we would like to acknowledge John Cadarette whose recent $10,000 gift, given out of a deep spirit of brotherhood for each member of this team, helped sponsor this special reunion.
Here’s to the 1974 football champs!