Though, naturally, most of Steve Bogdalek’s memories as a high school athlete are loud, as sports experiences tend to be, one of his most powerful moments was distinctively quiet. He shared, “In 1981, after beating Notre Dame of Niles in the 1st round of the high school football play-offs, we carried Coach JR Bishop off the field. On the bus ride home, the ride would have normally been loud and crazy, but on this occasion it was quiet, and it was an amazing time to reflect on what we had just accomplished.” The immense pride – and incomparable team connection – contained in that silence continues to resonate with Bogdalek over 30 years later. That silence, won by hard work, persistence and genuine belief in the team’s potential, was a testament to a season, and seasons, of commitment and sacrifice. The 1981 Redskins toppled East Suburban Catholic Conference champion Notre Dame by a score of 31-17, outgaining them in total yardage, 384 to 31, and completing 25 first downs to their 5. A breathless Bishop commented after the game, “We’re a dark horse in this thing. We haven’t been ranked all year…and our conference…hasn’t had the recognition. But we’re here, and we’re real.” Journalist and Central parent, Susan Erion noted the special energy of the night in her article, “Bring on Reavis!” finding delight in the “We Believe” placards scattered throughout the crowd and the a capella rendition of “Loyalty.” The crowd, she shared, drew its energy from its team: “And the Redskins didn’t disappoint those in the stands. The game was high school football as it should be…The spectacle included ‘picture-perfect’ passes, dazzling footwork, fumbles lost and recovered and even two safeties…All this under the light of a full moon.” Though the Redskins would fall to Reavis in the second round of the playoffs, their decisive win in the first round made a lasting impression on players and fans alike.Compelled by an unstoppable inner drive, Bogdalek tackled every athletic challenge he could find. Named to the 1981 Chicago Sun Times, Chicago Tribune, The Beacon News and Champaign-News Gazette All-State teams, he enthusiastically served as the team’s co-captain with current New Orleans Saints coach, Sean Payton. The only two-way starter on The Beacon News’ All-State first team, Bogdalek “carried 87 times for 492 yards and was the Redskins’ top defensive player. During the regular season, Bogdalek, who was double-teamed by most opponents, recorded 40 solo tackles and 21 assists.” He was also the second leading rusher for Naperville Central, running from the fullback position. A unanimous selection to the DuPage Valley Conference All-DVC football team, Bogdalek was chosen as captain of the defense.While accomplished on the football field, Bogdalek was equally talented in track and field. As a senior, he was a co-captain. A 3-time state qualifier in shot put, Bogdalek placed 7th in state in 1982, and he continues to hold school records in shot put and discus. His physicality, quickness, intelligence, and competitive fire made him a much sought-after college recruit. Coach Bishop commented, “In 20 years, he’s the only player I’ve had who is being recruited by every Big Ten school.” Bogdalek would go on to call Michigan State home.As a Michigan State Spartan, he was named to the 1986 Academic All-Big 10 Team and earned 2nd team recognition as a member of the All-Big 10 Team. As committed to his studies as he was to his sport, Bogdalek also earned the MSU Potsy Ross Scholar Athlete Award. He was featured in 1985 article “MSU Marks 50 Years Professionalism in Criminal Justice,” by Ed Zabrusky, who opened by saying, “On football Saturdays, Steve Bogdalek, a 265-pound tackle from Naperville, Ill., is one of the mainstays of George Perles' offensive line….In addition to pro ball, the affable senior in criminal justice has long-range plans for a career in the Secret Service. “ In the same interview, Bogdalek expressed his passion for the field, sharing, "Ever since high school, I wanted to go into the Secret Service.” His training at Michigan State, on the field and in the classroom, prepared him for all the dreams that were ahead.Bogdalek was the 288th pick in the 1986 NFL draft, chosen by the Philadelphia Eagles. Though excited by the possibilities of life as an NFL player, Bogdalek was drawn to a career in criminal justice. He has served as an ATF agent since 1987 and is currently a Special Agent in Charge of the Los Angeles Field Division. Married to Melissa, he is the proud father of four sons.Memories like that quiet bus ride home from a playoff win continue to inspire Bogdalek, who points current Redhawks to Vince Lombardi’s wisdom: "Leaders aren’t born, they are made. And they are made just like anything else, through hard work. And that’s the price we’ll have to pay to achieve that goal, or any goal. "Bogdalek’s leadership, on and off the field, then and now, provides an important and inspiring example for all to follow. What is perhaps even more telling of Bogdalek’s character and core ethics is a small poem he kept among his high school things, entitled, “Practice”:Practice can make you perfect,Skillful at what you do;Practice can be responsibleFor your greatness too.Practice is the reasonFor doing something well;Practice is the answerFor the ability to excel.Practice when you have the time,If only a little each day.Practice will improve the mindMuch more than words can say.So practice and you can be great,Be the best in what you do;For practice is the keyThat unlocks the door for you. May today’s athletes find their way to unlocking the doors in their lives, just as Bogdalek continues to do.