When talking about football the discussion may turn to helmets.
But who would have thought that what goes into this critically
important piece of equipment can be very complex.
Kevin (Radar) McCarthy, Associate Athletic Director for
Equipment Operations, and Alec Schwartz, Head Football
Equipment Manager, gave the club a demonstration of the new
“green dot” helmets. The coaching staff can speak from the
sideline directly to the quarterback and the designated defensive
player through the helmets. The club’s quarterback, Russ Crook,
was given the headset to speak to club members and guests for
many to hear (green dot helmets were distributed to various
tables around the room). It appears that Russ called the correct
play!

All helmets are personalized to fit each player based on a scan of
their heads. The equipment team continually looks at studies that
will guide them to purchase helmets that protect players from
concussions and other injuries. The cost of $800 per helmet
appears to be well worth it.
Those helmets should be strapped on tightly on Saturday against
C-USA opponent Louisiana Tech. After a loss last week against
Liberty, Coach Garrett Smith (Tight Ends and Assistant Special
Teams coach) told the club that corrections have been made and
the team has practiced with greater attention to detail. According
to Coach Smith, it was the best week of practice all year. It will be

a tough game against the Bulldogs whose defense, is at the top of
the league.

Delaware last played LA Tech in the I-AA playoffs in 1983 on
national TV (ABC) on a cold and rainy Saturday beating the
Techsters on their home field 17-0. A member of that team, Joe
Quigg, spoke about that game and his experiences at UD under
Hall of Fame coach Tubby Raymond.

Joe still holds the program record for sacks in a season (16).
Using his best voice impression of Tubby, Joe told us some
memorable and humorous “Tubby stories”. After a loss to West
Chester and prior to the next game versus William and Mary,
Tubby singled out Quigg, then in his second year as a starter, with
the motivational words, “Quigg, when are you going to do
something!”. Those few well-timed words were all the motivation
he needed for the remainder of the season.
Hopefully this year’s Hens are motivated for what looks like a
fantastic Homecoming game!
Go Hens!

Photos: Scott Messina and Mark Werrell
Narrative: Mark Werrell