Stony Brook’s 1974 Club Football Team Celebrates 50th Anniversary

The football program at Stony Brook University was disbanded in 1973. That didn’t stop its players from bringing the sport back as a club in 1974 — helping usher in a new era of football at Stony Brook and pave the way for so many athletes to follow. On October 5, many of those players gathered for the Stony Brook Club Football Era Reunion and 50th Anniversary of the 1974 Team.

The reunion of the 1974 football club team — known then as the Patriots — was held during Stony Brook’s home game against Villanova. Former players, coaches and supporters gathered to celebrate 50 years of football excellence at the university. The group took a tour of the athletics facilities and enjoyed a pregame barbecue, which included a visit from Stony Brook University Interim President Richard L. McCormick. 

“Reuniting with the guys was incredible,” said John Quinn ’77. “Some of us haven’t seen each other since the ’70s, but that camaraderie came right back. It was like we were in a time machine.”

Throughout the day, the alumni and friends reminisced about their playing days and shared stories of the camaraderie and spirit of the Stony Brook football community. The entire group was recognized during the game, with Quinn serving as honorary captain. “When I walked out onto the field, I felt everything come back to me as if I was going to play,” said Quinn. “That spirit was still there.”

A tribute was also held in memory of the late Kevin Kehoe ’77, during which the group reflected on the significant impact the program made on their lives and the importance of maintaining these connections over the last 50 years.

“This group means so much to the rich history of Stony Brook football, and it was incredible to celebrate their legacy,” said Director of Athletics Shawn Heilbron. “In addition to their contributions on the field, members of the club era have financially supported our continued growth and remain integral to our current and future success.”

Having been disbanded in 1973, and picked back up in 1974 as a club, the Patriots were not an NCAA member at the time and they didn’t compete in Division I, II or III. They were not affiliated with any university athletic program. Together with their new coach, Fred Kemp, the players had to manage all aspects of their team independently, including obtaining bleachers and equipment. “We fended for ourselves,” recalled Quinn. “We built our own field and managed our own equipment.” The team advanced to the club national championship in 1975. “It was truly an amazing feat in just our second year,” said Quinn.

In 1984, the club became a varsity program at Stony Brook and joined NCAA Division III. “I’m very proud of our Stony Brook football heritage,” said James McTigue ’80. “It’s been fun watching and being a part of the club to Division III to Division I Football Championship Subdivision (FCS) evolution.”

Stu Sharoff ’81 echoes the sentiment of both McTigue and Quinn. “Athletics — specifically football — is my connection to Stony Brook,” explained Sharoff. “I’ve stayed connected through alumni events, and as a founding member of the Patriots Club, I’ve remained close to many of the alumni I played football with.”

Quinn, McTigue and Sharoff all agree the day had great energy, and they look forward to watching the team continue to evolve and excel. “It was just amazing to have more than 20 men from our original squad at the reunion,” said Quinn. The theme of the reunion was “Without us then, there’d be no now” — and Quinn believes that couldn’t be more true.

-Christine McGrath