An update on Freddie Solomon

Posted Aug 7, 2011 by TBO.com

Updated Aug 7, 2011 at 02:27 AM

By LINDA McEWEN

Back in February, Tom had occasion to host the grand reunion of the old University of Tampa Spartans of the early 70s, with the very successful coaching of Fran Curci, at our house. Freddie Solomon was the chief organizer of this event and was in prime health. The team wanted to talk about those early days they cherished so much.

“Wouldn’t have wanted to go anywhere else or play anywhere else,” said world-class running back Solomon, who played for the Spartans, then the Miami Dolphins, then the San Francisco 49ers and could have played for anyone. Tom goes on, “Most of us testify that no one was ever quicker or could change direction faster than Fred Solomon when he was at UT and played at Tampa Stadium. Solomon (shown above in 2002) played quarterback and running back at about 178 pounds, with Vin Hoover, his buddy, a moose at 220. No one ever before or after Freddie could match his elusiveness, his quick starts and his direction changes.” 

“I wasn’t that quick, they just all fell down,” says Fred. Tom says, “They fell down because they were duped by as good a runner that ever played in the old Tampa Stadium, old or new, to this day.”

“I have never regretted coming to the University of Tampa,” said Solomon. “I had shots to go about anywhere, but Tampa was the right decision for me. Wife, Delilah, and I love it here in Plant City.”

“No one had a crowd standing more than did Freddie,” said Tom, “and he loved every minute of it and now appreciates his permanent situation with Hillsborough County and the DeBartolo Corporation, and both he and Hoover are both solid citizens, as well as almost all of Freddie’s teammates on the Spartan team.

“Times have changed, football was eventually dropped at the University of Tampa, but the school has progressed over the past few years and is growing like crazy under the leadership of President Vaughn.”

Say a prayer for Freddie’s recovery now, as he is having a bad time with his health and is home getting well with his wonderful Delilah. So send him your love and good wishes in this difficult time.

Babaloo!