Randy Frisch
We were very fortunate to have befriended Randy Frisch in our growing years. Stretching 6’5″, Randy kept growing longer than any of us. The size of his heart measured an XL as well. Randy piled up many tackles starting as a standout defensive end for the Vianney Golden Griffins during his sophomore and junior seasons in high school. He became even more effective his senior year when he secured far fewer tackles, as opponents had wised up and refused to call plays to his side of the field. Randy’s legend continued as a defensive tackle for the Missouri Tigers when he began gaining extensive playing time during his freshman year. He started the next three seasons for a standout Tiger defense that shut down Alabama, USC, and Ohio State for thrilling road victories. Always up to a challenge, see the photo below of Randy conquering another road opponent. The stakes were steak dinners for many of us. The bear caved in after 80 seconds.
In 1977, as a rookie playing for the vaunted Pittsburgh Steelers, Randy’s life came to an abrupt end as a passenger in a tragic automobile accident. Yes, we share many positive memories of Randy on the field. Our best memories of Randy, though, are of stirring conversations about current events, sports, girlfriends, classes, and entertainment. He was most hilarious when he would mimic his idol Muhammad Ali with a stanza he personally created. Like Ali, Randy brought color, humor, and style to all aspects of his life. Another Ali attribute, empathy for those less fortunate, was another Randy trademark.
Randy’s passing in 1977 came as our growing years were coming to a close. He led “our league” in demonstrating how personal growth was an inside and outside thing. Financial assistance to a deserving Mizzou student is a worthy way for many of us to remind ourselves of all things Randy Frisch.
About You
We are searching for a high school senior who has their heart set on attending the University of Missouri – Columbia. Requirement is a minimum of a 3.25 GPA in high school. The scholarship will continue as you maintain a minimum 3.0 GPA at Mizzou. Additional important criteria include need, achievement, perseverance, and the ever-intangible HEART shown through community service. Randy Frisch demonstrated heart in several ways. His heart helped propel his drive to continually improve his athletic skills. Even more importantly, Randy’s compassion towards those less fortunate made others feel special and more confident in pursuing their own dreams.
You can find contact information and more details about applying to this and other scholarships at the Mizzou Undergraduate Admissions website.
About Us
There are two groups who are involved in this important effort. The first group is comprised of the many people who treasured their time spent with Randy while he was growing up. The second group is quite large, too. They include friends of the first group who are so impressed with and touched by the inspiring Randy stories that are told by the first group.Directors
Matt O’Neill
Bill Lynch
Dennis O’Neill
Tim O’Neill
Matt O’Neill
Bill Lynch
Dennis O’Neill
Tim O’Neill
Captains
Honorary Captains
The Late John Kadlec
Coach Don Heeb
Team Captains
Jim Theiss
Tom Suntrup
Mark Bobak
Tom Reedy
Tessa O’Neill
John Johnson
Soren P. Sorensen
Phil Louis
Gary Wideman
Fred Brown
Robyn Frisch-Carlstedt
Dr. Chris Bowe
Team Captains
Dan Naert
Rudy Stecich
Tim Sheahan
Kevin O’Neill
Tim Hornof
Mike Lynch
Denny Kreps
Addie O’Neill
Carol Sheahan
Rick Frisch
David Dolak
Dan Bippen
Team Captains
Renee Frisch Nistler
Sean Lynch
Debbie Ploesser Needy
Tom Masterson
Ray Frisch
Pete Paoli
Mike Smallwood
Mark Wehking
Peggy Mack
Kelly Gale
Stuart Lawson
Al Meitl
Donate
Randy Frisch approached life with empathy and optimism. He tackled opposing runners with reckless abandon and fought hard for family, friends, and those in need. Randy pancake-blocked linebackers in backyards, college stadiums, and ultimately in the NFL. Randy was a self-proclaimed great passer who, unfortunately for all who loved his soft heart and his inspired confidence, passed away far too soon.
Team Randy is committed to keeping Randy’s competitive spirit alive by establishing an Endowed Scholarship Fund at the University of Missouri – Columbia. The goal is to offer financial assistance for a needs-based Mizzou student who has demonstrated academic excellence and a concern for our community. Team Randy will achieve this goal by raising more than $25,000 to establish the Randy Frisch Endowed Scholarship.
Since Randy’s many talents transcended his on-field accomplishments, we plan to support students from all corners of the Mizzou campus. Many of us have attended and/or sent children to Mizzou and we are eager to continue a connection by helping future students enjoy the life experiences available at the University of Missouri. The scholarship fund will identify recipients who possess the capability and desire to create their own legacy. We will help these students succeed well beyond their days at MU.
Donor Levels: Fan $91–$499 / Griffin $500–$999 / Tiger $1000–$2999 / Black & Gold $3000+
Click Here to Donate Online
To donate to Team Randy by mail, download, print, and complete the donation card linked here and mail it along with your tax-deductible check. (Download donation card)
Your support will ensure that Randy’s legacy will forever help well-deserving University of Missouri students.
Make checks payable to The University of Missouri with the Randy Frisch Endowed Scholarship designation noted in the lower left-hand corner.
Your donation is tax deductible to the fullest extent allowed by law.
Please send your check to: Michelle c/o NHS, 5215 Old Orchard, Suite 620, Skokie, IL 60077
For more information on donating, contact Matt O’Neill at 314-602-0565.