November 20, 2007

Tim Boeckman - Father of OSU Quarterback Todd Boeckman

Tim Boeckman, St Henry School's Athletic Director and Father of Ohio State University's Quarterback Todd Boeckman addressed the club about his experiences of being the quarterback's dad as Todd has moved into his standing as the starting quarterback for the team.

He described the experience as being unbelievable, amazing and a great ride.  Todd was first approached by Michigan and was offered a scholarship there.  Keeping his options open, he also talked with the University of Maryland and the University of Pittsburgh but ultimately found a home at OSU.   In Todd's junior year of high school, Coach Tressel offered him a grey shirt scholarship which allowed him to practice with the team until school started.  For his first quarter, he had to attend class at his own expense with the scholarship starting in the 2nd quarter.  The five years of eligibility started at that time and he ran the scout team for 2 years which afforded him invaluable experience practicing against one of the best defenses in the country.  He was able to win the QB position this year and has faced various tough situations which have groomed him along the way.

Tim admitted that the Big 10 Championship was unexpected but that the schedule allowed Todd to develop in his new position as first string quarterback.  The loss to Illinois is viewed as a blessing in disguise in that it allowed an opportunity for the team to look at themselves in the mirror.

He shared that he has witnessed Todd's growth along the way and that his most difficult challenge is the mental aspect.  After morning classes, he spends 6-1/2 hours per day in football.  Todd is working on a double major in Business and will graduate after the winter quarter in 2008.  Todd is unable to get away to come back home but he talks with his Dad on a regular basis.

The upcoming layoff between the regular season schedule and the bowl games is not a concern for Tim or the team and he feels they will be fully prepared for the Rose Bowl or hopefully the BCS championship.

Tim shared that Todd feels blessed to be a Buckeye and to play for Coach Tressel.  He describes him as a great individual and that he adds cohesiveness to the team.

When asked what the secret is for the St Henry program to have produced a disproportionate share of  outstanding athletes who have excelled in college and the professional sports realm, he offered that a tradition was established by the likes of Wally Post, Jim Lashay, and Bobby Hoying that has set a benchmark for others in the St Henry school sports programs.  He expressed that the input and support of Jim and Bobby were a factor for Todd in achieving his current success. 

Hosting Rotarian: Chris Killian