THE UMPIRE STRIKE BACK (RON LUCIANO)

Ron Luciano was born in New York 1937. He join Syracuse in 1957 and was a very good football defensive player. He played in Pro College All Star game. He was drafted by Colt then traded to Detroit Lions only to retire early due to injury.

He was approached by Lions owner to enter Florida State league baseball as an umpire. Moved gradually from minors to major league. His big size was imposing when striking out player. He likes Reggie Jackson and Nolan Ryan. He even admit Nolan’s fastball was difficult to monitor,
Has big problem with Earl Weaver. He later join broadcasting with NBC. Elected president for MLB umpires for 2 terms.

AUDIBLES (JOE MONTANA)

Joe Montana was born in Pennsylvania to an Italian immigrant family. First played football in Ringgold High School before joining Notre Dame. Played descent football and was selected 3rd round (82nd pick) by 49ers. When he joined Steve de Berg was the no1 QB and OJ Simpson was in his last season.

Won his first Superbowl in 1982 beating Bengals 26-21. He respect Bill Walsh as a good coach although never been appreciated by BW (he once said Montana was no Einstein !!!). The best moment was in Superbowl 1984 Montana vs Dan Marino (Miami Dolphins) and 49ers won 38-10. Joe Montana was criticized for parking his Ferrari in handicapped zone and he was not supporting the player strike in 1982.