Book Review - Courage Beyond the Game: The Freddie Steinmark Story by Jim Dent

by CoachEtch on Jan 17, 2012 8:24 AM CST

I am an avid reader and normally I wouldn't come on here and share what I read but I felt since this book is UT centric and there are several readers here who probably were at UT during that era or were following the Longhorns during their 69' championship season that some of you might find this useful when looking for a new book to read or just nice to revisit that time in history. Now that my incredibly long sentence is complete, follow me after the jump for the review.

First things first, Jim Dent is an incredible author. Dent writes exclusively about football and more times than not it is about football stories that take place in Texas. If you haven't read Twelve Mighty Orphans or The Junction Boys (I know, I know, still a great story) then you are really missing out.

As most Longhorn fans will know, Freddie Steinmark was a small safety from Wheat Ridge, Colorado. He came here with Bobby Mitchell to play for Coach Royal in 1967. After having a great year on the Freshman team, Steinmark earned a starting job on the 1968 squad that went 8-2. He was an integral part of that team, allowing the defense to play a 4-4 because of how trusted he was in coverage. He also registered several interceptions and was one of the few sophomores to ever start for Coach Royal during his tenure.

The next year, the 1969 season, Steinmark came in primed for another great year and a run at the National Championship. However, during the summer he started experiencing pain in his leg. Being that he was just a tough guy and didn't want to lose his spot, Steinmark never brought up the pain that was bothering him and played a whole season of college football with bone cancer that by the end of the season had all but devoured his femur.

I won't go on past this point for anyone that does want to read the book. I think I only gave a summary that most would know by virtue of being a UT fan and follower. Regardless, the book is wonderful, even if you're not a fan. Dent does a fantastic job of telling a story that is relatable and makes you feel like you are there as it occurs. He also does a wonderful job at tugging on every emotion as you read, making it easy to laugh at one moment and find yourself on the verge of tears the next. I strongly recommend any and all readers and UT fans out there to give this a read.

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I was at UT when he was there

One of his teammates & best friends was Scott Henderson who lived next door to me after Freddie lost his leg. Once there was a car blocking my car in the parking lot & Scott & Freddie happened by & offered to push the car out of my way. I assumed Freddie would steer but he insisted I steer & he push, on one leg. He was as he is described in the book, humble, respectful, quiet & shy.
I also remember ND’s coach Parsegian (sp?) complaining that Freddie standing on the sideline weeks after the amputation was an unfair advantage for Texas.

by ole tnhorn on Jan 17, 2012 10:08 AM CST reply actions

Being an old fart...

I can’t help but get emotional everytime Freddie’s picture goes up during the pre-game intro in DKR. There are so many memorable players from that era. But his story of determination, courage, and the power of hard work embodies everything that being a Longhorn represents. He is a symbol for the ages, and one I hope is never forgotten. If that happens, Longhorn football is diminished.

by nvrfrgt63 on Jan 17, 2012 3:45 PM CST reply actions

graduated 1969

got my undergrad degree from UT in 1969, stayed for law school. So this was an integral part of my history following the Horns. What a story. What a moment in time. Just reading your short preview got me teary again. Not nice to do to an old man.

a special man, Mr. Steinmark, and a special story

Travis

by Longhorn723 on Jan 17, 2012 7:49 PM CST reply actions

Likewise a '69 grad

Worked for the Daily Texan then, and one of my first interviews (along with Steve Worster) was Freddie when both were playing for the Freshman Team in 1967 (frosh didn’t become varsity eligible about until about five years later). I was also at the banquet when Freddie walked (on crutches) across the stage to get his letter.

Memorable, inspirational young man. In one of life’s great oddities, I was wearing a uniform in SE Asia when I learned of his death about 18 months later.

by edsp on Jan 17, 2012 11:45 PM CST up reply actions

Tugging on the emotions

ESPN I think it was just recently did a 30for30 on the Steinmark story. Also as an old fart, I remember and felt all the same feelings that I had while this part of Longhorn legend was fresh. What a great inspiration Mr. Steinmark is.

by Burnedsince61 on Jan 19, 2012 1:20 PM CST reply actions