Half-century old football team comes together to celebrate amazing feat, share memories

WAUWATOSA -- Then and now! A half-century old football team has come together to celebrate an amazing feat and share memories with this generation's team.

Ron Bruce was part of the 1965 Wauwatosa West High School football team, and coordinator of the reunion Tuesday, November 3rd at Wauwatosa West High School. He says he relishes sharing memories of a triumph that was achieved 50 years ago to the day.

"It feels great to just see people," said Bruce.

In 1965, the football team was named the undefeated suburban champions. The accolade is now celebrated with a newly established Hall of Fame.

"I can understand the history of Tosa West and what it means to be a Trojan," said Norberto Pliego, a current football player.

Video clips show them exhibiting great talent, while overcoming the odds.

"At that time, by the way, we were slated to pick last out of nine teams, or second to last. We just lost our head coach," said Bruce.

The past and the present came together as former players gathered with the current team, sitting down to compare notes on how the sport has evolved.

"They are two generations removed," said Bruce.

Many things have changed.

"As far as the kids now, they are faster and bigger of course, and just a different type of brand of football," said Bruce.

"Nowadays, you're put on a strict diet and workout regime. Back then, it was like, just on your own. I couldn't image doing that," said Pliego. "I can only imagine what those guys had to go through and just like having to motivate themselves."

For Bruce, the motivation continues, as he offered some words of wisdom to these young players.

"Try your best. When you think you're down, just keeping plugging away," said Bruce.

While the former players were thankful to reminisce, the current players felt just as grateful. Many of them said they now have a better understanding of the history of Tosa West and what it means to be a Trojan.