-As a teenager, Ernie enjoyed the game of golf. Ernie helped pay for his Walsh Jesuit High School education as a golf caddy at Silver Lake Country Club & Firestone Country Club in Akron, Ohio. When not carrying golf bags for Silver Lake members back in the 1970's, he caddied at famed Firestone when pro tournaments came to Akron. In 1972 and 1973 Ernie caddied for Julius Boros (1952, 1962 US Open Champion, 1968 PGA Champion) consecutive years at Firestone in a PGA tournament called The American Golf Classic. In 1974 Ernie was caddy for David Graham (1979 PGA Champion, 1981 US Open Champion) in this tournament. And in 1975, Ernie was the caddy for Jerry Barber (1961 PGA Champion), in the 57th PGA Championship held on Firestone's South course. In 1976,
Ernie caddied for Roy Pace, in the final American Golf Classic, held on Firestone's North course.
Julius Boros (SI cover 7/63)
David Graham (SI cover 6/81) Jerry Barber (SI cover 2/18/63)
-Ernie played football & baseball from 5th grade thru senior year in high school. His 8th grade Holy Family varsity football team were 1970 Akron CYO Champions. Winning the championship game 16-0 over Akron St. John grade school...at the time a very competitive youth league. Playing sports, Ernie discovered his love for competition. And how setting goals and achieving them not only brings satisfaction, but also builds strength in character.
-Ernie attained the rank of Eagle Scout, thru Scouting, Ernie discovered his love for the great outdoors.
Alumni