One can't go past Rockford without reflection on our sacred ground, " the Circle." The circle was really nothing more than a large round-a-bout a block from our house. It had a clump of small trees on one side, and open area anchored by a large oak tree. But, the CIRCLE, was our hideout, our stadium and where you could usually find the Jensen kids on a fall weekend.
The small clump of trees was a great fort during acorn fights. You had cover ( in my case THEY HAD COVER) and the other guys didn't. The trees were perfect for climbing because they were small and had lots of limbs for a few years. the great thing was, there was no one to tell you to get out because nobody owned it! Or so we thought.
The best part was the open area, the stadium. On a fall day, every walking capable kid in the neighborhood was there for a game. Usually, I came fully attired with full pads, home/or away jersey and a little oversized helmet, red with a white stripe. I recall one jersey I made. It was a red t-shirt with white numerals (#12) that I cut out of an old sheet and sewed to the shirt myself. RJ was in his Auburn Tiger helmet with full face guard- loved that helmet. We didn't know where Auburn was, but they were good and the stores sold their stuff. But, again, I digress.
Our field was as such: end zones- streets, out of bounds- clump of trees and opposite street. Thinking back, darn good thing we played on weekends or the long pass or high stepping in the end zone could have been very bad...
We had some tough games as we picked our favorite teams and that is who we were and certain players as well. Not sure why I was always told to be Beloit College.
The small clump of trees was a great fort during acorn fights. You had cover ( in my case THEY HAD COVER) and the other guys didn't. The trees were perfect for climbing because they were small and had lots of limbs for a few years. the great thing was, there was no one to tell you to get out because nobody owned it! Or so we thought.
The best part was the open area, the stadium. On a fall day, every walking capable kid in the neighborhood was there for a game. Usually, I came fully attired with full pads, home/or away jersey and a little oversized helmet, red with a white stripe. I recall one jersey I made. It was a red t-shirt with white numerals (#12) that I cut out of an old sheet and sewed to the shirt myself. RJ was in his Auburn Tiger helmet with full face guard- loved that helmet. We didn't know where Auburn was, but they were good and the stores sold their stuff. But, again, I digress.
Our field was as such: end zones- streets, out of bounds- clump of trees and opposite street. Thinking back, darn good thing we played on weekends or the long pass or high stepping in the end zone could have been very bad...
We had some tough games as we picked our favorite teams and that is who we were and certain players as well. Not sure why I was always told to be Beloit College.
I'm sure we can find a picture of Ken in his uniform to adorn this article.....I'm absolutely positive we can!!!
ReplyDeleteAlright, you asked for it. Here is a shot in all my glory. Back in the days when Forest Gump and I were the "keystone combo" on the Alabama Crimson Tide.
ReplyDeleteNote the authentic target socks and cleats to round out the well dressed football player of the 50's
ReplyDelete