Jun 8, 2008 By Patty Yauger 3 min read

CONNELLSVILLE – A sizeable contribution from one of the city’s most notable sports figures has allowed the Connellsville Area Senior High School football coach to give the green light for the construction of a fitness center at the district stadium. John Lujack, a Connellsville high school football player, starting quarterback for the Notre Dame Fighting Irish and the Chicago Bears in addition to being the 1947 Heisman trophy winner, has provided the needed funds, said Connellsville football coach Lou DeSimone, for the district to begin soliciting bids for the project.

“I had sent (Lujack) a letter a couple of weeks ago, and he called (district athletic director) Jim Lembo and talked to him and then sent us a check,” said DeSimone, adding that an anonymous local donor also helped raise the funds necessary to start the project. “I told the school board I wouldn’t start anything until I had the money in hand; thanks to Mr. Lujack and this other contributor, we’re ready to go.”

DeSimone declined to divulge the amount of money given, but in March when he asked the board for permission to build the auxiliary field house, he estimated the cost at $50,000.

In addition to the financial contributions, DeSimone said that Widmer Engineering Inc. has consented to provide design drawings needed to obtain permits and construction bids and that a local cement supplier, an electrician and an excavator have offered their services or supplies at discount or no cost.

DeSimone said that he also anticipates local and state lawmakers to help defray equipment costs through grant funding.

The plan is to construct a steel-pole, 60-by-42-foot building adjacent to the Connellsville Falcon Stadium John Woodruff Track/John Lujack Field.

Football team members will use the building during weightlifting training prior to and during the season.

DeSimone, too, hopes to utilize a portion of the facility to conduct team meetings and have the ability to review films with the players and coaching staff.

“It will allow us to keep everyone together in one place,” he said.

The team now does its weightlifting at the high school.

Some equipment, said DeSimone, will be transferred to the stadium facility, but there are plans to purchase additional equipment to enhance the program.

The building will not include restroom or shower facilities. However, a water supply system will be put in place during the construction for future use if needed.

DeSimone said that the facility would not be for the use of only the football team, but also other school sports teams and the public if the school board gives its approval.

Although the football field already bears Lujack’s name, DeSimone said that he hopes the fitness center will also be named in his honor.

“John Lujack was always one of my heroes when I was growing up,” he said. “We’re very grateful for his generosity and that of the community. There has been a lot of support for this project.

“Hopefully, by the middle of July we’ll be ready to go, and by football season, we’ll be able to use it.”