TRIBUTE to MERV HABENICHT
I am the youngest daughter of Earl Page. I remember our family helping your family move to Bettendorf. My father passed away in 2009 and in reliving his years prior to that, had many kind things to say about you. You truly live what you preach.
Paula Peat Page Martin
Class of 1970
It was my honor to have Merv (I'm 66 years old now so I guess I can call him Merv!) as a football and wrestling coach. Although I didn't know he had a sense of humor until Wayne Cheramy's surprise birthday party!!! Love ya, Mr. Habenicht!
Bob Schultz
Halfback/Guard, 183 lbs
1962
I coached with Merv when he first became the head coach at Bettendorf. I worked as both the freshmen wrestling and head freshmen football coach and then went to a bitter rival, Clinton. In all the time I have known Merv and his family, he is truly one of the most caring people I have ever met. I learned a ton about coaching from this living legend. While at Clinton my respect of him grew even more: Merv made Bettendorf football the program that it is today. Any player that ever played for him was very fortunate to have that experience. I think of him as a second father... enough: GO BULLDOGS!
Dennis Pelisek
Assistant Football Coach
1971-75
Merv, I'm glad I moved back to B-Town. Thank you so much for all you do. Not just for me, but for the many folks you touch and help. It's a better world because of you. The past few years have really been a hoot and anytime you need something feel free to call. Your whole family has always made me feel welcome. You can count on me now Merv--I think my mononucleosis days are over! Sorry for the let down in '78. I think we should have won State that year. Bruce #12
Bruce Fosdyck
Quarterback/Cornerback/Punter
Class of 1979
Mervin, I loved being your secretary for all those years as you and Evelyn are the role models of Bulldog fans. Thank you for letting Pat and I be part of your extended family.
Sandie Sprague
I knew Merv earlier before high school through his son Bobby and he always struck me as fun but hard working and serious when he needed to be. My first year at varsity with Merv I will never forget: he was pissed at us during blocking drills with a running back going through our holes. He was mad at me for getting blocked so easily, so to prove his point that it wasn't that hard to beat a block, he took his RED PRIDE LOGO baseball cap, turned it backwards, and challenged me in the drill. I was pissed and embarrassed about being called out so I fired out as hard as I ever had, put my--he never gave on me and kept me working until I got it right. For that I always be grateful: for the lesson that hard work, determination, and never giving up means.
Brad Tharp
Linebacker/Left Guard
Class of 1974
There are so many great moments and memories with Coach Habenicht. Coach Hab has left an impression on every person that he has coached and taught. I was lucky enough to have had Coach Habenicht as a teacher, a coach, and for Drivers Ed. He is a remarkable man and will always be loved by everyone who knows him. I still see Coach Habenicht around town, at church, or HyVee for breakfast breakfast and we still have a lot to talk about every time I see him. Thank you Coach Habenicht for being a great role model and leader: you're the best! And to quote Coach Scott, "When Mervin was born they must have thrown away the mold." Perfectly said, Coach Scott, because there is only one Coach Habenicht!
Ken Koehler
Defensive End
Class of 1990
Merv's football record speaks for itself. He, like many other great coaches, has versatility. My tribute comment has to do with his record as a freshman wrestling coach. Merv has to be the greatest freshman wrestling coach of all-time. His contribution to Bettendorf's wrestling program during the "Freeman era"--along with coaches McCutcheon, Glenn, Paustian, Castro, and Boyton-- led to several state championships in his "other sport". Most teams would have been lucky to have Merv as their varsity head coach.... think of how great it was for us to have him at the freshman level.
Kevin Rose
Tailback
Class of 1976
Coach Habenicht:
I just wanted to say that even now, nearly 20 years later after my last season playing for you (and the other great coaches I had like Randy Scott, John Lavelle, Dave Hodam,
and Tom Freeman), I still remember the lessons you taught me--on and off the
field. Most certainly, you still are a role model and legend... not just
for what you accomplished as a football coach, but also as a teacher and person.
John W. Elkin
Noseguard
Class of 1990
