Sept. 19, 2003
An overflow crowd in excess of 600 friends and fans of the Iowa Hawkeyes were told by Kirk Ferentz this morning at the Johnson County I-Club’s Friday Morning Breakfast that Saturday’s game against Pac-10 Conference powerhouse Arizona State is without question the biggest challenge of the Hawkeyes’ young season.
“They are much more than a quarterback. They are a very talented football team. The game will easily be our most difficult to date,” said Ferentz, who was introduced by former Hawkeye and NFL standout Ed Podolak.
Before talking about the Sun Devils, Podolak and Ferentz both took an opportunity to look backward at last Saturday’s victory over intrastate rival Iowa State.
“That win was important to a lot of people, fans, student-athletes and coaches,” said Podolak. “But last summer when I was asked to pick the week I wanted to introduce Kirk, I chose this week because I knew we’d be celebrating a victory over the Cyclones.”
Ferentz said the Cy-Hawk Trophy – which was on display in the Amos Dean Ballroom of the Downtown Sheraton Inn – was a lot like his football team. “It doesn’t win a lot of style points,” said the coach, “but it’s sure nice to be around.”
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“For my money, our defense was excellent, our offense was efficient, and our special teams were absolutely outstanding.”
Head Coach Kirk Ferentz
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Ferentz summed up his team’s effort against the Cyclones simply: “For my money, our defense was excellent, our offense was efficient, and our special teams were absolutely outstanding.”
“And, obviously, I’d be remiss if I didn’t single out Sean Considine and Nate Kaeding. Both performed superbly for the Hawks,” Ferentz added.
Before Ferentz’s presentation, Joe Wegeman, the current president of the Johnson County I-Club, presented UI Director of Athletics Bob Bowlsby with a check in excess of $36,000. It represented the proceeds of the 26th annual Hawk Party.
“This is further evidence of the special relationship fans of the Hawkeyes have with our program. Thanks, we couldn’t do for our talented student-athletes what is necessary without your support,” said Bowlsby.
Ferentz also announced the game captains for Iowa’s date with Arizona State. Howard Hodges and Jonathan Babineaux will represent the Hawkeye defense; Robert Gallery will represent the office; and Considine and Kaeding will handle the chores for the special teams.
Ferentz also reminded those in attendance that another former Hawkeye and NFL standout – Danan Hughes – will be Saturday’s honorary captain. “We’re going to keep that Kansas City Chief thing going with Eddie today and Danan tomorrow,” said Ferentz.