This historical date in Texas: Future Longhorn role model When Freddie Steinmark was born…
On January 27, 1949, in Denver, Colorado, Freddie Joe Steinmark was born to Fred and Gloria Steinmark. Despite his modest stature—standing 5 feet 9 inches tall and weighing around 164 pounds—Steinmark’s tenacity and passion for football propelled him to become a starting safety for the University of Texas Longhorns, etching his name into the annals of sports history.
Early Life and High School Achievements
Growing up in Wheat Ridge, Colorado, Steinmark exhibited a prodigious talent for sports from a young age. At Wheat Ridge High School, he lettered in football, baseball, and basketball, showcasing his versatility and dedication. His exceptional performance on the football field earned him the Denver Post’s Gold Helmet Award, recognizing him as Colorado’s outstanding scholar-athlete. Additionally, he played a pivotal role in leading his high school team to its first state football championship, underscoring his leadership and skill.
Collegiate Career at the University of Texas
In 1967, Steinmark accepted a scholarship to play for the University of Texas at Austin. Despite being considered undersized for his position, his relentless work ethic and unwavering determination secured him a spot as the starting safety for the Longhorns during the 1968 and 1969 seasons. In his sophomore year, he led the team with five interceptions and was named to the All-Southwest Conference academic team, reflecting his commitment both on the field and in the classroom.
The pinnacle of Steinmark’s collegiate career came during the 1969 season. The Longhorns maintained an undefeated record, culminating in a historic matchup against the second-ranked Arkansas Razorbacks on December 6, 1969. Dubbed the “Game of the Century,” Texas secured a thrilling 15-14 victory, with Steinmark playing a crucial role despite experiencing persistent pain in his left leg.
Battle with Cancer and Enduring Legacy
Shortly after the celebrated victory over Arkansas, medical examinations revealed a malignant bone tumor just above Steinmark’s left knee. The diagnosis was osteogenic sarcoma, a severe form of bone cancer, necessitating the amputation of his left leg on December 12, 1969. Demonstrating remarkable resilience, Steinmark stood on the sidelines, supporting his teammates on crutches, as the Longhorns triumphed over Notre Dame in the 1970 Cotton Bowl Classic, securing the national championship.
Steinmark’s courageous battle against cancer and his unwavering spirit resonated nationwide, inspiring many and bringing heightened awareness to cancer research. His story contributed to the momentum leading to the National Cancer Act of 1971, signed by President Richard Nixon, which significantly increased funding for cancer research and initiated the “War on Cancer.”
Tragically, Freddie Steinmark’s life was cut short when he passed away on June 6, 1971, at the age of 22. In honor of his enduring legacy, the University of Texas dedicated the scoreboard at Darrell K Royal–Texas Memorial Stadium to him in 1972, ensuring that his inspirational story continues to motivate future generations.
Freddie Steinmark’s life exemplifies the profound impact of resilience, determination, and unwavering spirit. His journey from a young athlete in Colorado to a symbol of courage at the University of Texas serves as a timeless inspiration, reminding us of the strength of the human spirit in the
face of adversity.
