What makes Reitz Football special to you?

From Mike Horn, Class of 1973: I was born into the Reitz family in 1955. My father Allan Horn was the line coach for Herman Byers from 1948 until his death in 1962.

My early childhood memories included running around the practice field with my dad and running around in the "Old Field House". I also remember the after game get togethers at Coach Byers home. He continued to have us over after my dads death up until his retirement in 1968.

I was upset with Coach Byers when he retired in 68. I was on the cub team and was eager to play for him in high school. I was fortunate enough to play on the last undefeated and mythical state champion Reitz team in 1971. In my senior year of 1973 I was elected to the All-State team. After graduation I got to play for the University of Evansville and coach Jim Byers. It was always special when Herman would be at the games and come down and give me a word of encouragement.

I chose teaching and coaching as a career because of the coaches who guided me at Reitz High School. From 1977 to 1984 I coached football at Bosse High School under a great Reitz graduate Archie Owen. In 1985 I was able to return to Reitz as the reserve coach under Bill Hape. Our reserve teams won or shared the City title 4 years in a row. During my last two years at Reitz I was given the opportunity to coach the varsity offense. After the 1990 season my career and affiliation with Reitz football came to an end.

Now that I have a nephew in the program my interest has been renewed. The Reitz program is sound and has good leadership. I cherish my past with Reitz football. Coaches Herman Byers, Jim Barnett, Jack Schaffer, Don Henry, Larry Lyons, Gary Brunson, Archie Owen, Bill Hape and Bob Padgett all help mold me into a football player, coach and productive citizen. I will always be grateful for that.