Philly Legend and Renowned Coach Passes Away at the Age of 84

The whole footballing world suffered a tremendous loss on Saturday. Legendary football coach Bob Stem passed away at the age of 84. Stem rose from poverty and made his way to the top level. Not only a fantastic player but also a fantastic coach, Stem achieved success in both areas.

A man of many talents, Stem gathered lots of accolades in his playing days. He started off as an elementary maths school teacher. He was a teacher for 35 years in Phillipsburg, before finally retiring in 2001. The entire football world will mourn this loss for a long time.

Bob Stem- A Man of Many Achievements

Bob played as a guard and linebacker from 1954 to 1957 at Phillipsburg High School. He also received All-State and All-American recognition in the year 1957. Also, in the winter of 1958, he became a state champion wrestler in the 168-pound category. Stem helped win 173 games in 19 seasons as the coach of Becahi. The Golden Hawks, who captured eight District 11 titles during his tenure, also won state championships in 1988 and 1990. His death comes as a shock to many.

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He played three years as a center and linebacker at Syracuse University and was a crucial part of the 1959 national championship team. Ernie Davis and John Mackey were his teammates. Both of them were legendary players and revolutionized the game. Phillipsburg High School athletic director Kyle Fleming shared his experience of working with Bob Stem. Lehighvalleylive shared his part of the story:

“I think it’s important to note that Coach Stem had a unique way of making everyone in the room feel sincerely important,” Fleming told lehighvalleylive.com on Saturday morning. “And many know of his intense ways that brought a lot of continued athletic success to our football program, but that’s truly balanced with a man who deeply cared for the community and had ways of bringing smiles to people’s faces.” 

“Coach Stem’s ability to unite the entire Phillipsburg community will forever be associated with his legacy,” Fleming continued. “Members of the cheerleading team, marching band and student section always felt like they were a part in the success of Coach Stem’s tremendous football teams.”

End of an Era for a Legendary Coach

Stem was a part of the 50th annual Thanksgiving football game, which took part between Phillipsburg and Easton. He also had the privilege of coaching in the 75th and 100th games. After retiring in 2010, where he played his last match and won it 3-0, Stem shifted to full-time coaching.

A former Hall of Famer Bob Stem contributed a lot to the success of the Phillipsburg team. However, after his death, the team will hardly be the same. Hopefully, the team from recover from this loss and achieve great heights. Let us know your thoughts in the comments section below.

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