About the Warren Wormann Jr. Defensive MVP Award
When Warren left us, I called his high school football coach, Coach Paternostro, to let him know. He was one of the most supportive and caring people that I spoke to. "Anything you need or that I can do personally, you got it," he said. I mentioned to him that I would love to have a Pope John Jersey with Warren's football number on it, #43. Not only did he get one made for me, but also for Gerry and Amanda. I didn't see that coming and it brought me to tears. He went on to say, "#43 will never be worn again," and his number was retired in his memory.
Warren was a solid fullback and linebacker during his freshman season at Pope John and got moved up to Varsity prior to State Playoffs. It was that season that Warren won the first of four consecutive state section championships along with his teammates. Eight of his fellow freshman teammates got moved up along with him. They were the only nine players in Pope John Football history to earn a ring bearing four state championships.
Warren was a tough, smart player who was very hard to bring down with his strong legs and relentless drive. As a senior, he was named to the All-Area and Non-Public State teams. He was also awarded the Defensive Player Award for Pope John.
After I called Coach P. to thank him for the jersey, he asked if there was anything else he could do. I mentioned that we would like to establish a football award in Warren's name, and in 2005, the same year that he passed away, we presented the trophy for the first "Warren Wormann Jr. Defensive MVP Award." Every year since, we attend the PJ Football Awards Banquet and present the award, it's always a special moment for us.
About the Warren Wormann Jr. Memorial Scholarship
In the months that followed, Gerry suggested that we do something at Pope John. I spoke to Jennifer Williams in the alumni office about a scholarship fund. When I asked Jennifer if $1,000 was a fair amount to award to the yearly recipient, she said that it would be more than fair, and it would be one of the larger cash awards.
The first Warren Wormann Jr. Memorial Golf Classic was enjoyed by 48 golfers, and had 18 hole sponsors. This year, for the 10th annual, we have an astounding 184 golfers and 24 hole sponsors! Through the generosity of friends and family and the success of the annual fundraisers, we are proud to announce that starting this year the scholarship award will be upped to $2,000, awarded annually.
Thank you to everyone who makes this award possible!
- Warren Wormann Sr., Gerry, and Amanda