Despite my cancer, I just wanted to become emotionally invested in my Warhawks this week

                          

As many of you know, I am in my 452^nd day since being diagnosed with inoperable and incurable stage IV colorectal cancer with liver metastases. The disease has resulted in chronic fatigue and has drastically cut back on my promotion of UW-Whitewater football.

How much do I love the Warhawks? I have a book that is scheduled to be published next summer. The title of the forthcoming book is: Battling cancer through family, friends and Warhawk football: One day at a time.

I love writing about Warhawk football. It is my passion. I started the Website warhawkfootball.com at the start of the Hawks’ 2003 season. My disease forced me to step away from publishing the site two summers ago. 

Warhawkfootball.com is now in the very capable hands of Jay Perkins, the son of Forrest Perkins, the iconic former Warhawk head coach who passed away in December, 2014.

I am sad that I am unable to physically withstand the trip to Mount Union this week.  I desperately wanted to do what I’ve done for the past 29 years – to publicly promote the UW-Whitewater football program.

For the past two days I’ve been running on adrenaline.

The definition of adrenaline by the Merriam-Webster dictionary is: a substance that is released in the body of a person who is feeling a strong emotion (such as excitement, fear, or anger) and that causes the heart to beat faster and gives the person more energy.

I spent almost 10 hours yesterday writing and publishing photos on Facebook leading up to tomorrow’s showdown of Purple Powers. I intend to stay busy and posting photos for the remainder of the Warhawks drive to make it back to the Amos Alonzo Stagg Bowl for the 10^th time in the past 11 years.

I sincerely hope that my writing this week will add to your excitement as the Warhawks proceed on the Road to Salem.

Will I physically be able to maintain my current pace? I draw my energy through the inspiration from Stuart Scott’s iconic ESPY speech in 2014.

"So live. Live! Fight like hell. And when you get too tired to fight, then lay down and rest and let somebody else fight for you," Stuart said near the end of his speech.

I draw my inspiration from watching Warhawk football, and to have the privilege of becoming friends with the coaches and many of the players over the years.

I’m using all my energy this week by just trying to make a difference through promotion of the Warhawks.

Thank you Stuart Scott for the inspiration you have given me.

A day at a time.

To view Stuart Scott’s ESPY speech click on the following link:

https://youtu.be/Yl_0ieqSi7Q

A Stagg Bowl berth will be on the line tomorrow in Alliance, Ohio

Over the past decade-plus UW-Whitewater and Mount Union have stood atop NCAA III football. 

Mount Union has made it as far as the semifinals 21 years in a row. Since 2005, Mount Union and UW-Whitewater have advanced to the Amos Alonzo Stagg Bowl in Salem, Virginia all but in 2012.   

Mount has won national titles in 1993, 1996, 1997, 1998, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2005, 2006, 2008, 2012. the Purple Raiders were National Runner’s-up in: 2003, 2007, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2013, 2014

The Warhawks have been the NCAA III National Champions in 2007, ’09, ’10, 11, ’13, and ’14. 

Mount Union has not lost a regular season game since October 14, 2005 when the Purple Raiders lost to Ohio Northern 20-14 in Ada, Ohio.

The Purple Raiders enter Saturday’s game as the top scoring team in Division III, averaging 55 point per game

Why are the two teams meeting in the semifinal this year? It is the result of UW-Whitewater’s 10-7 loss at UW-Oshkosh back in October. The Warhawks won the rematch last Saturday, 31-29 in quarterfinal action in Oshkosh.

Kickoff Saturday is set for 11 a.m. 

The game will be telecast live via ESPN 3 and the ESPN App.

The game can be heard live on KOOL FM 106.5 WKCH with Gary Douglas providing play-by-play and Arnie Peck giving color analysis. Pregame is 10 a.m. CST.

To listen live, click on the following link:

http://player.streamtheworld.com/liveplayer.php?callsign=WKCHFM 

A new twist to the UW-Whitewater vs. Mount Union rivalry this year

                                  

The UW-Whitewater football team practices under the lights and an amazing sky Wednesday evening

The two most dominating NCAA III football programs will meet a week early this year. Mount Union and UW-Whitewater have met in the Amos Alonzo Stagg Bowl (NCAA III National Championship game in 2005, '06, '07, '08, 09, '10, '11, '13 and 14. This year the two teams meet in the semifinal round out in Alliance, Ohio.

We’re going to their house – and playing at their place,” Bullis indicated at last Saturday’s post game press conference. “I’m kind of embracing that idea to be honest with you.  You talk to any of our juniors and seniors, guys who have had the opportunity to have played against Mount Union. That sounds like a lot of fun. It sounds like a great opportunity and we are looking forward to the playing them on Saturday.” I’ve attended a couple of practices this week and the players are well aware to the challenge they face this week. Senior running back Jordan Ratliffe, who gained 116 yards on the ground in the Warhawks’ 43-34 in last year’s Stagg Bowl win over the Purple Raiders was asked about playing Mount in the NCAA III semifinal on Saturday after meeting them in the Stagg Bowl in nine of the past 10 seasons.

Rattliff talked about approaching Saturday’s showdown of Purple Powers no different than any other game during the season.

“We watch film, get the game plan early in the week and his week its Mount Union,” Ratliffe explained. “It is the same when we have prepared for them in previous year’s Stagg Bowls. 

At Wednesday night’s Quarterback Club radio show senior captain Joe Worth echoed his teammate’s thoughts.

“As a senior, this is incredibly exciting,” Worth told the radio audience.  “I can’t wait, it should be a lot of fun.”

The two teams played non-conference games in 2003 and 2004. Then head coach Bob Berezowitz wanted to get a feel what UW-Whitewater needed to do to get to “national elite” status. It didn't take long.

In 2005, Whitewater qualified for its first Stagg Bowl berth, the first of nine over the next decade. The Purple Raiders dominated the Warhawks in ’05 and ’06 prior to Whitewater capturing the school’s first national football title in 2007. The Hawks of won national titles in five of the next six Stagg Bowl meeting with Mount Union.

Gametime Saturday will be at 11 a.m. Saturday. The game can be seen live on ESPN 3 or the ESPN App. The game will also be broadcast on your radio home for Warhawk football on KOOL 106.5 and streamed online at 940wfaw.com.

Whitewater and Morningside put No. 1 national rankings on the line

                                                 

Two unbeaten and No. 1 ranked teams nationally will square off Thursday evening in Sioux City, Iowa. UW-Whitewater will put it's 34 game win streak on the line when takes on Morningside College in non-conference action.

Morninside is ranked No. 1 in this week's NAIA national poll.  The Mustangs will bring a 3-0 record into the showdown with the Warhawks.

Morningside leads the nation in scoring following its 49-0 shutout over Dordt (Iowa) last Saturday. The Mustangs opened the season with a 77-17 win over Sterling (Kansas), followed by an 86-10 throttling of Nebraska-Wesleyan on Saturday.

Last year Morningside was the No. 1 ranked team offensively in the NAIA.  the Mustangs averaged 55.5 points and 662 yards per game setting 12 national records along the way. The Mustangs posted an 11-2 record and reached the semifinals of the NAIA Championship Series playoffs last season. Morningside has advanced to at least the semifinals of the NAIA Championship Series each of the last three years, including an appearance in the 2012 NAIA Football National Championship Game.

Whitewater rolled 66-3 over Finlandia Saturday afternoon in the Warhawks home opener at Perkins Stadium.

Kickoff Thursday evening will b at 6:04. The game will be televised online via ESPN 3 and will be broadcast live on KOOL 106.5 Radio and also streamed live

Warhawks to open season down in the heart of Dixie

                                                       

Photo courtesy of UW-Whitewater Athletics

                                                      

The UW-Whitewater football team will open the season Saturday afternoon vs. Belhaven University down in Jackson Mississippi. The Blazers, a program since 1998, are set to begin its first year in NCAA III as a member of the American Southwest Conference.

Belhaven opened its season last weekend with a 52-23 loss to Milsaps College. Despite the loss, Belhaven quarterback Clayton Webb passed for 545 yards going 47 for 72, 3 touchdowns and 2 interceptions.

 The Blazers are coached by Hal Mumme inventor of one of the top passing offenses.
The "Air Raid" Offense is a shotgun, spread, pass-first offense designed by the Mad Genius, current head coach Hall Mumme.

With Lance Leipold and much of his staff now at FBS Buffalo (NY), the Kevin Bullis "era" gets underway for the UW-Whitewater program.

This year's team is seeking a 35th Wisconsin Intercollegiate Athletic Conference Championship, third consecutive NCAA III national title and seventh since 2007.
  

UW-Whitewater enters the season on a 32=game win streak, longest in college football (all divisions).

2015 Warhawk Football Alumni Weekend Set For October 2nd & 3rd

                                          

Alumni of the University of Wisconsin-Whitewater football program are invited to the 2015 Warhawk Football Alumni Weekend on October 2nd and 3rd.

The weekend will center around defending NCAA III national champion UW-Whitewater's game vs. UW-Platteville on Saturday, October 3rd at Perkins Stadium. Former head coach Forrest Perkins, who passed away last December, will be recognized with a special pregame tribute.

All former players will receive free admission to the game.

Friday evening a dinner will be held at the 831 Brewhouse (formerly Randy's).

The dinner is open to all players, families and supporters ($20 per ticket). The dinner will be at 6 pm with a social beginning at 5 pm.

Championship teams to be recognized at dinner: 1960 (55 years), 1975 (40 years), 1980 (35 years), 1990 (25 years), 2005 (10 years), 2010 (5 years).

A golf outing will be held on Friday (12-noon start) at the Whitewater Country Club ($25 including cart)

On Saturday, a pregame tailgate will be held in the Perkins Stadium parking lot. The event is sponsored by UW-Whitewater football, Quarterback Club and KOOL 106.5 (The Radio Voice of Warhawk Football since 1963)  All former players and families are invited. The event is free and will include free brats, hot dogs and beverages.

For more information CLICK HERE

Lucas Skibba returns after missing 2014 to torn ACL

                                                 

Lucas Skibba back after missing 2014 to knee injury

“Being able to get back at it feels really good,” Lucas Skibba explains

 

 Last year at this time Skibba had just been named a preseason All-American by D3football.com. The Plover native was going to be the anchor of the offensive line. Just like that, Lucas’ season was over.  A torn ACL early in training camp meant the senior would miss the entire season.

 Skibba told me early-on following his injury that he didn’t want to end his career in street clothes on the sideline.  He vowed to be back in 2015.

 Skibba petitioned the NCAA for an extra year of eligibility due to injury. The request was granted.

 Despite missing being on the playing field last season his presence was felt both on the field and in the locker room.

Last year's O-Line was the youngest for the Warhawks since I came on the scene in 1988. The entire two-deep was made up of freshman and sophomores.

 Lucas used his experience to serve as a defacto student assistant coach in helping lead the Warhawks to a second-consecutive NCAA Division 3 national championship.

 The “red shirt” senior is not ashamed to admit that he was perhaps the “biggest” cheerleader throughout “Warhawk Nation.” Whileout injured. When you are 6’3” and 285 pounds you are classified a big cheerleader.

 Skibba admits that it’s been a challenge the first couple days of training camp.

 “First practice was pretty challenging," Skibba explains. "Today (second practice) I felt like I was really getting back into it. What I notice the most is the speed of the game. It will take practice reps to feel more comfortable.

 With the entire offensive line back from last year, and with the return of Skibba, the senior says his group looks forward to the challenge of repeating as conference champions.

 “We look forward to the challenge,” Skibba told me. “We want to lead the way in establishing another great run game and have pass protection schemes (pass pro shut outs) that will protect our quarterback.”

 The UW-Whitewater offensive line has been a fan favorite over the years at Perkins Stadium. It is summed up in three words – POUND THE ROCK!

“We are the guys in the trenches,” Skibba explains. “We relish the importance of our role of doing our job well each and every play. That’s our job. Their can’t be any excuses.”

 As as been the case each and every year, their is absolutely no talk of another Stagg Bowl berth for the Warhawks.

“As we say here every week, we have to keep pressing forward  and be 1 and 0 each and every week – every opponent.” Skibba said.

 To be successful, don’t get looking at the big picture. Keep your focus, one play, one practice, one game at a time.

POUND THE ROCK

 

 

Warhawks first training camp practice was fast paced and energenic

                                              

Warhawk offensive coordinator Craig Smith oversees his unit at today's practice

The UW-Whitewater football team's 2015 training camp roster stands at 138 as the preseason's first on-field practice took place this afternoon.

Many NCAA III programs boast rosters approaching 200 whoever UW-Whitewater has stayed steady between 135 and 140 on its preseason roster. 

The Warhawks and other WIAC teams used to have larger rosters however the conference's 100 player regular season roster limit has had an impact on the number of recruits brought in each season.

This afternoon's first practice of the preseason was held at the North practice field complex. The majority  of the remaining practices will take place inside Perkins Stadium.

The one thing that jumped out at me this afternoon was the energy at practice.  UW-Whitewater's new coaching staff ran a rapid pace 24 segment practice. The high energy level of both the coaching staff and players was quite apparent.

I was standing adjacent to new Warhawk offensive coordinator Craig Smith for much of this afternoon's practice. Coach Smith's high energy level was contagious as he "coached up" his quarterbacks and offensive unit.

My Warhawk Training Camp Reports will debut Monday morning at 7:15 on KOOL 106.5. The reports will also be streamed live. To access the audio stream CLICK HERE.

UWWs Zach Franz: One of the four best defensive Linemen in D3

                                                              

(This story is courtesy of Herosports.com)

Franz is just a junior, but proudly carries the title “Two-time National Champion,” having won back-to-back titles with the Warhawks in 2013 and ’14. Yet, the 6-foot, 263-pound lineman wants more.
The question is, how much higher can this man climb? Especially after a banner year in which he racked up 35 tackles, seven sacks (0.54 per game), 11 tackles for loss, and a handful of stellar performances, including a season-high six tackles and 1.5 sacks against UW-Oshkosh in October.
Opposing offenses may not want to find out.

So, what contributes to Franz’s lofty success? “I believe its having a good work ethic and good coaching from both teammates and coaches,” he said, while highlighting his personal fitness routine.
“I prepare (for the physical aspect of the game) by trying to workout with the best people to help push each other to our full abilities.” That extends all the way to his diet, which doesn’t include, “candy, or late-night pizza.”

It remains to be seen if the Warhawks can snag a three-peat this season, especially with the departures of key players and legendary coach Lance Leipold, who departed for Buffalo in the offseason.

“All I know,” Franz said, “the team this season is hungry for more.”

Are you ready for the Kevin Bullis era of Warhawk football?

                                                                         
UW-Whitewater football players and parents reported to the Berezowitz Student Athletic Complex today as Warhawk training camp is underway. The first practice is set for Friday. Thursday will be filled with team meetings and other administrative necessities.

I've read a couple of national publications and newspaper articles where the writer has implied that UWW's incredible success could be in jeopardy following Lance Leipold's exodus to FBS SUNY-Buffalo (NY) along with the majority of his Whitewater staff. It is the obvious story line in the wake of Coach Leipold's incredible 109-6 record in eight seasons at U-Dub-Dub including 6 NCAA III national championships.

The articles talk about the bar raised "Empire State Building" high for Kevin Bullis in his first year as head coach of the two-time defending national champion Warhawks.

Think back to early 2007 when Lance Leipold was hired to replace the recently retired Bob Berezowitz after 26 years as UW-Whitewater's head coach. It was the former Warhawk quarterback's first head coaching position.  Leipold talked about the winning tradition at Whitewater and the pressure of "holding up" the winning tradition at UW-Whitewater.

At his initial press conference on the day he was named Whitewater's 21st head coach in a program that dates back to 1895, Bullis also talked about UWW's winning tradition.

"It is an honor to serve UW-Whitewater as head football coach," Bullis told the gathering at Williams Center. "Following the legacies left by Forrest Perkins, Bb Berezowitz and Lance Leipold, I am humbled."

Bullis gets it. 
                                                         

UW-Whitewater's football program fuels its success by the motto, Powered By Tradition.

 Kevin's passion, integrity and understanding of the holistic student-athlete experience stood out during the search and screen process," UW-Whitewater  athletic director Amy Edmonds said after naming Bullis head coach. "Kevin understands the rich history of Warhawk football and the entire university. We are confident to continue our tradition of excellence both on and off the field."

Bullis’) passion, integrity and understanding of the holistic student-athlete experience stood out during the search and screen process,” Edmonds said in a release. “Kevin understands the rich history of Warhawk football and the entire university, and we are confident to continue our tradition of excellence both on and off the field.”

Bullis beat out four other finalists for Whitewater's head coaching position  While the others talked about football, Bullis talked about the importance of players excelling, not only on the field, but more importantly in the classroom and in the community.

Being of high character is extremely important according to the new Warhawk head coach.

Last year I was relegated to sitting in a wheelchair at Warhawk football games in Perkins Stadium as I battled inoperable and incurable stage IV colorectal cancer. Each game prior to kickoff, Coach Bullis would come over to my chair in the southwest corner of the end zone, shake my hand and ask how I was doing in my battle.  Several of his players would also come over to shake my hand following the games at the Perk.

Their effort might not seem like much to you, but it meant the world to me.  It is why I was inspired to launch my Voices Eye on Warhawk Football Website for this season. To let fans know more about who our Warhawk players and coaches are all about. Stories that deserve to be told.

High character, solid football is what Kevin Bullis brings to the table.  Get ready for an exciting season of Warhawk football - I know I am!

One day at a time!

UW-Whitewater Football Training Camp Reports will debut Monday on KOOL 106.5

                               

UW-Whitewater's football team reports back to campus for the start of training camp tomorrow. The actual first, on field practice, is scheduled on Friday.

Hi, I'm Tom Pattison. I will again be broadcasting UW-Whitewater Football Training Camp Reports twice daily (8:15 a.m. and 4:15 p.m.) on 106.5 KOOL FM, Your Radio Home For Warhawk Football for the past 52 years. My reports can also be accessed via podcast.  To listen CLICK HERE

My reports were originally scheduled to begin Friday morning.  Following my meeting this morning at WFAW/KOOL 106.5, the reports will now debut Monday morning at approximately 7:15 a.m.
Words cannot describe how important it is for me to still be able to contribute to Warhawk football broadcasts after a year off

2015 Warhawk football team reports to training camp on Wednesday

                                                   

                                     

Are you ready for UW-Whitewater football? Tomorrow, players report to the Bob Berezowitz Student Athletic Complex… first practice is set for Friday.

 The two-time defending NCAA III national champions return a solid nucleus as preseason practice gets underway.

 The Warhawks feature seven returning starters on both offense and defense.

 The Hawks need to replace two-time Stagg Bowl MVP Matt Behrendt and wide receiver Jake Kumerow now on the Cincinnati Bengals' roster, 

 The top three running backs statistically – Dennis Moore, Jordan Ratliff and Nick Patterson – return at tailback.  The three running backs averaged over 6.5 yards per carry.

 The Hawks have its entire offensive line returning. The entire 2-deep in the OL is comprised of underclassmen (as was the case last year). Also expected back will be Lucas Skibba. Skibba was scheduled to be the top returning offensive lineman last year but suffered season ending knee injury during last year’s training camp.

 One of the keys to offensive production this season will be replacing Jake Kumerow and Justin Howard at wide out.  Joe Worth leads this year’s group of receivers heading into camp. Worth finished third statistically in 2014 at wide receiver.

 Whitewater returns all but one of its front seven starters defensively. Mykaell Bratchett (DE) is the lone starter lost to graduation.

The entire linebacker core from last year’s Stagg Bowl two-deep roster return.  Three of the four starters in the secondary have graduated including Brady Grayvold and Marcus McClinn, who were perhaps the top set of cornerbacks in Division 3 last season.

The Warhawks’ kicking game returns in tact with both Lake Bachar and Will Meyer returning.

 UW-Whitewater does not publish a list of recruits prior to the start of preseason practice. Division 3 doesn’t incorporate “letters of intent” as D2, FBS and FCS does.

 Are you ready for UW-Whitewater football? Tomorrow, players report to the Bob Berezowitz Student Athletic Complex… first practice is set for Friday.

 

 

WIAC football teams begin preparation for 2015 season

                                   

 

All WIAC schools with the exception of UW-Whitewater have opened training camp.  Stout opens its season on Thursday, Sept. 3 vs. perennial MIAC power Bethel in Menomonie.  On Friday, Sept. 4 UW-La Crosse opens its season vs. Luther (IA) at Veterans Stadium.

 Platteville and River Falls open the 2015 schedule on Saturday, Sept. 5.  The Pioneers host Buena Vista (IA) while the Falcons travel to Simpson (IA).

 Three night games on the 5^th will wrap up the week 1 schedule.

 St. Thomas (MN) at UW-Eau Claire

UW-Oshkosh at Robert Morris (IL)

UW-Stevens Point at Albion (MI)

 UW-Whitewater has a bye week on Sept. 5. The Warhawks will open the season on Sept. 12 vs. Belhaven University in Jackson. Mississippi.

 The Warhawks’ home opener will be on Sept. 19 vs. Findlandia, Michigan at Perkins Stadium.

 Warhawk football, both home and away, will be heard live on KOOL 106.5 and also streamed live.  WKCH/WFAW have been the “Radio Home of UW-Whitewater football since 1963.

Matt Blanchard in "mop up" roll in preseason opener

                                          

Matt Blanchard in preseason opener at New England Thursday night

For UW-Whitewater football fans around the state, their was great anticipation to watch Matt Blanchard in last night's preseason opening win at New England.

As expected the 1st half belonged to Aaron Rodgers and Scott Tolzien.

Brett Hundley was impressive in the 3rd quarter. The rookie fifth-round draft pick, capped a 61-yard touchdown drive with a 10-yard touchdown pass to undrafted running back John Crockett.

Hundley had the best stat line of the Green Bay quarterbacks. He finished 4 of 6, 60 yards, one TD, no INT, one sack, and an impressive 138.9 QB rating.

Leading 22-11, Matt Blanchard entered the game with 5:32 remaining in the game.

After two running plays, Blanchard was sacked on his first passing situation for a loss of 15 yards but the play was wiped out on a New England face mask penalty.

In total, Blanchard was in for a total of 8 plays - 6 rushing, 2 of 2 passing for 11 yards,  0 TDs, 0 INT, 1 sack, and an 89.6 quarterback rating.

Next up for the Packers will be a trip to Pittsburgh a week from Sunday to take on the Steelers.

Training Camp looms for UW-Whitewater football team

I was over at Perkins Stadium and the Bob Berezowitz Student Athletic Complex today taking photos to upload onto my Voices Eye On Warhawk Football Website. Several of Kevin Bullis’ coaching staff are spending a couple of day’s out in Buffalo, New York watching Lance Leipold’s University of Buffalo team in training camp. While the Lance Leipold era is over here in Whitewater, the Kevin Bullis era is just getting underway.  

 Players are scheduled to report to training camp on August 21. Over the past month I’ve seen a number of players physically preparing for camp by working out on their own.

 In truth, playing football at the “national elite” level of NCAA Division 3, requires year round work – weight room, spring practice – academics.

 I saw a post on Facebook today.  

 

Four Warhawks - Brandon Tamsett, Zach Franz, Kyle Schiedemeyer, and Nick Patterson have wrapped up a summer of working out at Brad Arnett’s NXLevel Performance Center in Waukesha.

 It is amazing the number of NFL and College players that call Arnett’s facility “home.”

 I'll have UW-Whitewater Training Camp Reports twice daily starting on August 21st on KOOL 106.5, Your Radio Home For Warhawk Football

 

 

 

 

Warhawks Favored In WIAC Preseason Poll

The UW-Whitewater football program is again in familiar territory.  The Wisconsin Intercollegiate Athletic Conference's sports information directors and football coaches have tabbed the Warhawks to capture the WIAC championship for a 10th time in the last 11 years. UW-Whitewater leads conference football programs with 34 WIAC/WSUC titles in conference history.

The Warhawks enter the season on a 34 game win streak, the longest current streak in all of college football.

The two-time defending NCAA III national champions are scheduled to report for training camp August 22nd. They'll open the season at Bellhaven University in Jackson, Mississippi on September 12th.


                                                     UW-Whitewater     15-0, 7-0 (WIAC)
                                                     UW-Platteville         7-3, 5-2 (WIAC)
                                                     UW-Oshkosh           6-4, 6-1 (WIAC)
                                                     UW-Stevens Point   7-3, 4-3 (WIAC)
                                                     UW-La Crosse         3-7, 2-5 (WIAC)
                                                     UW-River Falls        3-7, 2-5 (WIAC)
                                                     UW-Eau Claire        1-9, 1-6  (WIAC)
                                                     UW-Stout                2-8, 1-6  (WIAC)

Once a Warhawk, Always a Warhawk

I've been associated with the UW-Whitewater football and men's basketball programs since 1988. While I've had the opportunity to be the Radio Voice of both teams for many of those years, it is the friendships I have developed over the past 26 years that I relish the most.

Still being on first name basis with many of the former players who's games I called on the radio over the years means a lot to me. Many of those players and their parents enthusiastically endorsed my idea of launching my Voice's Eye On Warhawk Football Website last week.

One of my favorite days each month is having lunch in Madison every three weeks with a group of former Warhawk players, coaches, and VIP boosters.  Our location has been at the Avenue Bar. Our luncheon has been off the past couple of months while the Avenue undergoes extensive renovation.

Today, several of us got together for lunch at the 841 Brewhouse in Whitewater. It was the first time I've been at 841 that was the former Randy's Restaurant. It has great atmosphere and great food!

Either as a former player, coach, or Warhawk booster, it is the friendships developed over the years that are so special.

I was fortunate enough to be inducted into the UW-Whitewater Athletic's Hall of Fame several years ago.  I will tell you that to be able to have lunch with the group I did today is humbling.

As I often say - Once a Warhawk, Always a Warhawk

(In the adjacent photo (L to R) Dave Vander Muelen, Tom Pattison, Pike Teipner, Claude Miller, Bob Berezowitz)

For the 5th straight year i'll have twice daily Warhawk Training Camp Reports on KOOL 106.5

I'm proud to announce that I finalized details this morning with WFAW/KOOL 106.5, to produce twice daily, three minute long UW-Whitewater Football Training Camp Reports on KOOL 106.5.  I have been involved with Warhawk football on the radio since 1988. It is a valuable part of my life.

This will be my 5th season of doing the training camp reports on the radio. It is a way of giving Warhawk football fans a preseason look at the two-time defending NCAA III national champions.

My reports will include player profiles, excerpts of interviews with players and coaches,  and my daily thoughts on how camp is going. The reports will be heard twice daily on KOOL 106.5 along with being streamed. The camp reports will also be available to download on a need basis.

Players are scheduled to report to training camp on Saturday, August 22. Camp runs for two weeks. The Warhawks open the season on the road at Bellhaven University in Jackson, Mississippi on September 12.

I talked this morning with 1st year Warhawk football head coach Kevin Bullis. He says he looks forward to working with me during camp and all season long.

         

Hawks 58, Wesley 6 in 2005 - my No. 1 game-week memory

One of my great memories of a game-week at Perkins Stadium occurred the week leading up to UW-Whitewater's 2005 national semifinal game vs. Wesley College (Del.) at the Perk.
The story starts on Thursday when over a foot of snow falls in Whitewater.

I'm at the Warhawk football Quarterback Club at Saxe's Lonestar on Thursday night and I get a call about 10:30 p.m. from then head coach Bob Berezowitz.

"Tom, do you have your camera with you?" Berezowitz asked. "Get over here to the Stadium, you won't  believe it!"

I rush over to the "Perk" and I though I had just arrived at the North Pole!" (see adjacent photo)

A hastily organized "grounds crew" had put a tarp over the grass field that afternoon and portable heaters were brought in to try to keep the field from freezing over.

Ketterhagen Motors brought several SUVs to the stadium to keep the tarp from dislodging.

Fast forward 40 hours to game day. The field remained ice covered in front of a season-high crowd of 5480 at cold, snowy and windy Perkins Stadium. The Warhawks forced a Wesley safety on the first play from scrimmage and never looked back, rolling to a 58-6 victory over the Wolverines to advance to UWW's first-ever Stagg Bowl appearance.

To this day Wesley blames the poor field conditions and lack of proper shoes for the loss.

Whitewater would beat Wesley 44-7 one year later in 2006 national semifinal action at the Perk

 

 

.

 

 

It was on this date in 2004 that I launched my Warhawkfootball.com Website.

                                              

Today marks a special anniversary for me.  It was on this date in 2004 that I launched my Warhawkfootball.com Website. 

The idea for the site occurred after, then UW-Whitewater head coach Bob Berezowitz and I, talked about a Mount Union football fan site at the time, and how it promoted the iconic NCAA Division 3 program.

As opposed to the Mount Union site, I elected to incorporate a "magazine style" site that included stories on a daily basis throughout the season. Most of my stories I wrote. Others included a lead-in to another media story that I would link the reader to.

 Never did I realize how popular the site would become. It registered over 2 1/2 million hits over its 10 years of existence.

Last year, in the midst of being diagnosed with being diagnosed with inoperable and incurable stage IV colorectal cancer with liver metastases, I missed renewing my domain. As a result, the Warhawkfootball.com domain was available.

Jay Perkins, the son of iconic UW-Whitewater football coach Forrest Perkins, purchased the domain name and has made Warhawkfootball.com even better than through my 14 years at the helm.

I recently launched my Voices Eye on Warhawk Football Website, not to be in competition with Jay, but to give UW-Whitewater football fans around the country (and the world) another daily source for Warhawk football stories and information, 

My new site will feature more commentary along with player and coach interviews as I attempt to "put a face on UW-Whitewater football." In my mind, the No. 1 D3 football program in the country.

Matt Blanchard gets his first opportunity to play in Lambeau Field

(Associated Press - Mark Roemer Photo)

The Green Bay Packers entertained 67,191 fans for 90 minutes Saturday night. It marked the Packers' 10th Annual Family Night practice before a near sold out Lambeau Field. It was the team's seventh practice of it's 2015 training camp.

 

Among the rookie players getting their first opportunity to perform in front of a near full house at "legendary Lambeau" was former UW-Whitewater quarterback Matt Blanchard. Matt signed with Green Bay back in April after reaching an injury settlement with the Carolina Panthers.

Blanchard operated No 4 on the team's depth chart last night.

Through the first week of training camp, Blanchard and 5th round draft pick Brett Hundley have alternated at No. 3 and No. 4 on the Packers' quarterback depth chart.

 

Matt Blanchard interviewed today by 105.7's Bill Michaels

Green Bay Packer (and former UW-Whitewater) quarterback Matt Blanchard was on the radio with Bill Michaels on 105.7 “The Fan” in Milwaukee today. They talked about a variety of subjects including Saturday’s Family Night at Lambeau Field; on playing a back-up roll at quarterback; on making the 53-man roster; his thoughts on UW-Whitewater going for a third consecutive D3 championship; and his thoughts on his former college coach, Lance Leipold making the jump to FBS Buffalo this year.

 

To listen to the interview CLICK HERE

 

 

People are reading Voice's Eye on Warhawk Football all around the world!

I don’t know about you, but I’m getting excited for the start of UW-Whitewater football training camp later this month.

Every morning I check the online statistics of who, and how many, are clicking onto my Voice’ Eye on Warhawk Football Website.

 Visitor numbers have increased on a daily basis since launching the Website this past Monday.

 As expected, 99% of “hits” are from here in the United States. Yesterday I noticed that the site is getting readers from all around the world. Not sure why, but there is a small group of readers in Ireland.   Perhaps it is due to my name – Pattison. (Patty-son, get it? LOL)

To date I’ve had readers in Canada, Australia, Germany, Bermuda, United Kingdom, Guatemala, India – along with Ireland and the USA.

 Pretty “cool” huh?

 The highlight of my week occurred yesterday when I arrived at my infusion clinic in Madison.

 As I walked into the infusion clinic, one of the nurses came walking up to me with a big smile on her face and said, "Tom, you are a celebrity - a star," she asked me. I said "excuse me - what's this all about?"  Well last night on Facebook one of her friends shared a post of your new Website. It was my Voice's Eye on Warhawk Football article asking ESPN College Gameday to come to Whitewater this season. It made me feel like my effort was all worth it!

 

 

Report: Kumerow hoping to make Bengal's 53-man roster

I had indicated earlier this week that former UW-Whitewater wide receiver Jake Kumerow was "raising" eyebrows" during the first few days of Cincinnati Bengals training camp. Reports out of camp that the former All-American has made a handful of spectacular catches that have impressed fans at he Bengal's training camp site adjacent to Paul Brown Stadium.

SB Nation's  Rebecca Toback spoke with the Bengals free agent wide receiver earlier this week. The 2014 D3football.com Offensive "Player of the Year" is one of the team's undrafted players looking to earn a roster spot with the team this season. Kumerow has shown flashes in training camp and is ready to prove why a D-III prospect can make it in the NFL.

At Whitewater he was known for Sports Center Top 10 like catches like the above photo

To read the article CLICK HERE

A lttle Chemo and Website work for me today

I hope you all are enjoying my return to blogging UW-Whitewater football stories here on my brand new, Voice's Eye on Warhawk Football Website. I'm currently in my 384th day since being diagnosed with inoperable and incurable stage IV colorectal cancer with liver metastases.

I'm sitting in my chair this morning here at the infusion center here in Madison getting my weekly chemo infusion. My computer's on my lap and the people here are awesome! 

Why am I back promoting Warhawk football on the internet? Simple - it has been my passion since 1988. Battling cancer is extremely scary! Even though I'm fighting an "inoperable and incurable life-threatening disease, I recently came to the conclusion that doing what I love would be some of  the best therapy I could get in at this juncture of my life.

I miss very much having my Warhawkfootball.com Website. I'm so thankful it is now in the capable hands of Jay Perkins. lease visit his site daily throughout the upcoming season.

M new Website will continue to feature stories in a magazine format. Once the players arrive for training camp I'll be conducting player and coaches interviews, As was the case before, I want to put a "face" on the No. 1 NCAA III football program in the country.

Again, my site will include plenty of photos. I'll also have an online interactive poll each week. I also want to add "commentary" posts.

Hopefully, I'll be allowed in the press box this season after a year off. I missed not being in the press Box greatly last year.

 I truly believe my work adds significantly to the public perception of the Warhawk football program. I pledge to do the best job possible. You can bet on that!  GO HAWKS