S1E23: Celebrating Coach Joe Kozik - Pair Off in Threes
As we celebrate the Heroes and History of Eye Street, episode 23 celebrates the legendary Coach Joe Kozik (1914-1995). When Kozik arrived at Gonzaga, in the early 1940s, he brought with him a passion for sports and physical education, and a strong moral conviction.
As we’ve chronicled in earlier episodes, while on Eye Street, the tough former Penn State running back, took key stands against discrimination. To get a better sense of what shaped Joe’s worldview, our special guest this week is Joe’s son, Randy Kozik.
What it was like as a youngster growing up riding the Gonzaga team bus that his dad was always driving everywhere? Who did his dad consider to be his favorite student? Who was the best athlete his dad ever coached? What's one coaching moment Randy witnessed that he still laughs about? Randy Kozik shares these answers and also adds a very poignant personal story about his mom; a revelation very few members of the Gonzaga community knew. It sheds light on just how special Joe Kozik was as a dad.
Judge Bill Rowan '57 was part of the alumni group that organized the Joe Kozik Testimonial Dinner in November 1980 at the Shoreham Hotel. Bill shares his memories of Joe in the classroom, the pep rallies, and how Joe would go the extra mile to help the Men of Eye Street.
God Bless Joe Kozik, and God Bless Gonzaga!
AMDG
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