The last time I wrote about meeting someone pre-fame, it was my Mt. Carmel schoolmate Erik Pappas. Today, I am once again going to my MC roots, by highlighting Tony Furjanic, my former teammate on the Track and Cross Country teams.
Furjanic was one year ahead of me at MC. He was also definitely the star athlete during that era. Furjanic was named Sun-Times Prep Athlete of the Year in 1982. Furjanic went
on to have a stellar career at Notre Dame. He was drafted by the Buffalo Bills in the 8th round in the 1986 draft. Furjanic played two years with the Bills and one with the Miami Dolphins, appearing in 28 games.Back during our time at MC, Furjanic and I were teammates for a season. Furjanic was a shot-putter and I was a long-distance runner. I did spend some time in the weight room with Furjanic (hey someone had to teach him how to lift!).
Seriously, Furjanic gave me quite a few pointers and was always a great guy. He never let his success change him. He even showed me a bit of the technique used in shot-putting (not that I ever competed, but it was fun anyway).
I have lost touch with Tony, although I know he still lives in the Chicago area. I hope to catch up this summer and when I do, I will have an update here.
The 1981 MC Track team (I'm on the right side) in Mt. Carmel gym in Chicago, IL-Winter 1981.
The 1981 varsity MC Track team (Furjanic is in front row in jacket) in Mt. Carmel gym in Chicago, IL-Winter 1981.
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