DEALING WITH GOLIATH

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3 DEALING WITH GOLIATH A Test of Faith and Endurance David B. Barton Revised as of November 5th, 2009 ISBN David B. Barton Cover Artwork by Jason Engle

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5 Dedicated to all those valiant players of the Skyline High 1969 Utah State Championship football team but especially to my valiant mother and enduring family.

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7 Table of Contents Table of Contents...i Preface...ii The Rest is History...1 In this shortened version, I have included the preface and the last chapter of the book to reflect the general theme and content. Over thirty chapters detail how I arrived at a point where I felt that I gained respect as a person. Life is not fair at times. Having the proper attitude that there is always hope not defeat, no matter what challenges come your way, is the purpose I wrote this book. Let me know if you would like the full copy of Dealing with Goliath. David B. Barton (davebarton@bartonfamily.com) i

8 Preface In 1969, a unique and monumental football game inspired all that witnessed it. Privileged to be a key figure in this game, I feel it a necessity to put into words just what this event meant to me. Similarly, a unique and special person profoundly inspired all those who knew her. She also had a significant role in my life and, indirectly, played a part in this miraculous event. This person is one of the most special people in my life. I also feel the need to expand, in writing, more details about how she exemplified goodness and touched the hearts of others. Lucky for me, this person is my mother. Marge Barton was never the president of a company or inventor of a miraculous product. She was content being a loving wife and mother of nine children. More importantly, she wanted to live a good life exemplifying her Christian values. Having spent most of her life in a wheel chair, she had few footprints. The impressionable footsteps she left behind were felt, not seen. Though early in her life circumstances seemed unfair due to the perils of Multiple Sclerosis, she always had an undying lust for life. Her marriage to the love of her life ended in heartbreak. Compounding her anguish, the capacity to perform basic parental responsibilities became almost impossible due to her illness. Nevertheless, her children loved and cherished her. She rarely complained and could cheer up most people with just a few words and a smile. In her life experience, which included giving birth to nine children, she made friendships with many people. Celebrities, professionals, politicians, church leaders, sports writers, and coaches all had great respect and admiration for her courage. She was a true hero and taught valuable lessons about life by example. Interviewed and spotlighted in a book written by a good friend, Mom stated, I used to be vain about my appearance. Worldly possessions and pride of social position were extremely important to me. Not any more. I m learning some difficult lessons. I ve ii

9 had to accept being an object of pity because of the condition of my body. I have come to accept acts of charity with graciousness. My children, some not yet in their teens, must wait on me and care for me physically, as I did for them when they were babies. I wish it didn t have to be this way. I ache to serve them as most mothers are privileged to do. The hardships and heartaches have made me a better person. I try daily to learn what the Lord would have me learn. You see, I'd rather become worthy to walk in his presence than be beautiful, socially prominent, or famous. I have often wondered if I would have reached the depth of commitment in any other way. Does it really matter what we suffer if we qualify to live with him? Pray for me; don't pray for my suffering to be less, but that I may endure to the end regardless of what is required. One of my prayers is that my contribution to the eternal lives of those who serve me, family, friends, and fellow Church members, will be that the services they give me, in love, with faithful repetition, sometimes with impatience, will prove to be a part of their eternal growth. 1 If there were a motto that reflects Mom s life, it would be to endure to the end. This valuable and healthy attitude would be helpful for each one of us if we could apply this outlook in all aspects of our daily lives. Her inspirational example and a positive attitude gave me the courage to succeed when circumstances seemed bleak and overwhelming at times. Dealing with Goliath refers to a biblical story of how a young boy faced insurmountable odds against a giant. I also faced my own Goliath. My personal Goliath was a constant fear that left me somewhat confused and in turmoil for the better part of my growing up years. Not only did I constantly face these fears, my family also had to deal with similar fears combined with many overwhelming challenges, strife, and pain. The writings contained in this book reflect why the events of a football game in 1969 became so important to my family and me. Written up as "one of the most incredible and exciting games in 1 Quote from Love is a Gift by Afton Grant Affleck iii

10 Utah prep history" 2 and influenced by "the single, greatest and momentous play in Utah prep football" 3 added to the magnitude of what had transpired on that November day in Inspired by the outcome of that monumental game, Bill Marcroft, a local sportscaster and the former play-by-play voice of the University of Utah football program writes, "Several times during the past thirty years, I've told the story (of the 1969 State playoff game) on the air whenever a situation looked bleak for one team or another. You play until the final whistle, gun, or buzzer, because on that day long ago, I learned that 'It Ain t over till it s over'! 4 My life proved to be anything but dull to this point in my life. Many interesting and unique events leading up to the actionpacked state game in 1969 added to the magnitude and importance of this game. In an even greater story, I relate the events of my family that, in many ways, parallel the game of football. In particular, the Utah State High School Championship Game of This book covers four days in November of When the magical series of events end, I reflect, from the standpoint of a fifteen-year-old, how I became part of such a monumental story. Before you read this book, reflect back to when you entered high school. Observe your sophomore yearbook or pictures from your scrapbook from that period. Try to put yourself in a frame of mind when you were fifteen. Remember the feelings you had during this exciting, yet sometimes stressful, time of your life. If you do, this book will take on the proper perspective that I wish to convey. Life is a team game. Learn of how my family, especially my mother, played this game of life. I hope you can not only enjoy this book's true-life story, but also inspire you to endure to the end no matter what life challenges come your way. 2 Taken from A Century of Utah High School Football by George B. Felt 3 Quote from the Salt Lake Tribune, November 22, From an Article by Bill Marcroft entitled "It Ain t Over 'Till it s Over!" iv

11 Marjorie P. Barton January 20, August 23, 1999 v

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13 Chapter 33 The Rest is History For Skyline High, the outcome of the State game in 1969 proved to be a monumental victory. Many will remember this event for a long, long time as one of the best games in prep football history. For some, it was only a game. For many others, especially me, it became much, much more. The contrast between my life at home and my life outside my home are quite different. I sometimes feel as though I am two people with diverse lives. One person with qualities that are envied and another person that is, at times, pitied. I think everyone has a life that is deeper and much different from what is on the surface. For those who do not know my family's situation, the perception of my life seems perfect and very special. Those who are familiar with my family know that my life is special but far from perfect. Though I had many rough moments growing up, my life in actuality is very blessed. I have a physical body that is healthy and strong. I have a good social life and great friends. My deep engrained faith in God has been tested these past few years. My perception has changed from a believer to an unbeliever at times. One thing I know for sure is that life's 1

14 challenges definitely have its parallels with the game of football. "It ain't over, 'till it's over" may be the most important lesson learned from not only this exciting game, but to life itself. Playing this game of life, for most, usually brings strange twists and challenges. One would think that if there were truly a fair and just God, He would reward the honorable and the faithful. Likewise, God would hold back blessings from evil, abusive, and selfish people. It seems unjust that a merciful God would oversee his creation in any other way. When I question Mom about how unfair her life is now, her answer to me is simple. She believes that if God blesses people for living honorable lives and makes life miserable for those who do not, decision-making would be easy. No one would make mistakes and there would be no accountability for their actions. Mom's unwavering faith in a God that lets us make our own choices, either good or bad, leaves us with trials as well as blessings. I know for sure that I continue to receive blessings even after I make terrible mistakes or poor decisions. In many respects, it is how we approach life's adversities, which ultimately prove our success. Mom always taught me that the challenges she faced and the challenges we would face were tests given to us by God. How we would deal with these tests, either positive or negative, is how ultimately God will judge our lives. The courage and heart of the biblical figure, David, demonstrated unwavering courage against a giant. To most, Goliath seemed undefeatable. David knew that he had a job to accomplish and he did it without hesitation. The outcome of this monumental fight was a result of David's preparedness. Even though he was an unlikely warrior, his display of faith ultimately proved him victorious. It is the type of courage that David displayed, as a young boy, that I feel is so important in dealing with circumstances in my life. Our family had no choice but to face the challenges and deal with them the best that we could. My family knows the bigger picture of what is important. My mother's faith in God gives our family inspiration to continue. I know how hard I have prepared to be able to reach my goals. Combining my hard work with my dream provided the positive attitude of never giving up no matter what. 2

15 The game of football most definitely parallels many of life's trials, burdens, and hardships. As many football players spend countless hours preparing for their dreams of winning, many factors ultimately decide what the outcome of a game may be. Similarly, no matter how much preparation or dedication we put into achieving goals in life, unforeseen factors will often leave us short of our expectations. This is the case as it relates to my family and especially my mother. Many times, it comes down to the lucky bounce of a football that may ultimately decide winning or losing a game. Likewise the quality of a life, though based on good intentions, may be a result of shear luck. Being at the right place at the right time, may determine the successes or challenges we face. My family has had our fair share of challenges in the past few years. In fact, it seemed as though when things could not get worse, it did. Though Mom's life started out in such a positive way, life has dealt her more than her fair share of misfortune. She suffers not only physical pain from her illness, but also the emotional pain of a divorce. When I experienced stressful stages in my life, Mom was always there showing compassion and helping me through those moments. In no way could I ever comprehend what she has gone through. I cannot even come close to compare my emotional or physical pain to hers. In most ways, the trials I face are trivial in comparison. Mom has every reason to feel sorry for herself. Instead, she dwells on the positive things in her life. She finds ways to make the best of what she has. Her family is the focus of her life. She truly loves each one of her children. She finds a way to live a full life through each of us kids. Mom also has legitimate reasons to lose faith in God. You would think she would become bitter because so many of her trials seemed unfair. Instead, she feels compassion for many people who have a life with greater challenges than hers. As football players, we face opposing teams that intimidate and challenge us. The strategy of a football game is to overcome these challenges. An opposing team may be stronger and quicker in many positions. A great coach provides a way to deal with this unfairness or inequality. The way a coach uses a team's strengths 3

16 and preparedness to deal with each situation is the difference between success and failure. Like a great coach, God provides a way to deal with the many trials we face. Viewing life's greater picture of why we are here on this earth gives us the strength to go on. My mother displays an unwavering faith in God that blesses her with an attitude of hope not resentment. My story is one of hope, not defeat. To all those who have been betrayed, abused, mistreated, or have lost expectations of a good life, relating this chapter in my book of my life hopefully can give you a new meaning and purpose in your life. The victory in the State Game is not only a win statistic for Skyline High; it is a win for my family. The positive experience with the game of football leaves many friends of our family, who know our situation, jumping for joy. Not just for a touchdown, but something even much greater. Skyline's victory proves that there is always hope when things look bleak and hope is lost. For me, football is the perfect antidote for the challenges and fears I have had in my critical growing years. Though I fully enjoy every aspect about football as a game, the game of football provides me with the outlet or escape from reality when I most need it. More importantly, the game of football, in most ways, teaches me how to handle many challenges of life. Added bonuses that football provides for me include coaches that, at many times, fill important gaps of a caring father. Teammates and their families, at critical times, that treats me as part of their own. Though considered by many as just a game, the positives that football brings forth make my life worth living. Unfortunately, the great accomplishments of King David throughout his life, turned tragic by his inability to endure to the end. The boy who defeated Goliath and the same David who tried to cover up an adulterous affair with Bathsheba, compounded by the eventual murder of her husband, highlight a sharp contrast of good and evil. David's story, as recorded in the Bible, may be the greatest tragedy that can happen to a mortal man placed in a situation with high expectations. Likewise, to all those who know and love my father and are recipients of his good deeds, a comparable tragedy now tarnishes his life. 4

17 Even though names and dates change, the characters and the stories contained in the scriptures serve as reminders not to repeat poor judgments. I feel that there is a lot to learn from those who make bad decisions. Though sometimes it is hard to read and especially to fully understand, these examples teach principals critical in helping us to make good choices. To all those who know my mother, she gives inspiration. Her unwavering faith, not only in her family but also in her spiritual beliefs, gives her the will to go on. Life will continue to be unfair at times. Those who deserve blessings will continue to receive few. Those who are selfish, dishonest, and are mean spirited will continue to thrive. One thing is for sure, life goes on no matter what. How you handle negative experiences ultimately proves your successes in life. Fortunately, my grandmother teaches me repeatedly that if I work hard enough and long enough, that I eventually will achieve my goals. It is no wonder that Mom lives a life with this same enduring philosophy. For now, I will try to help fill the gaps in a dysfunctional family by being there for my younger brothers and sisters. I love every one of them so much. They are truly my best friends. I am concerned that they will have a life as normal as possible under these conditions. I am lucky to have a girlfriend that loves me and makes me feel special. Though we are both very young, we need each other. We have many things in common relating to family issues. I think we both fill voids in each other's lives that help us cope with these stressful situations. Though honored as a hero in the state playoff game, I do not consider myself one. I am just an ordinary person lucky enough to have a great opportunity. I know deep down that something special happened to me that is hard to explain. Out of hundreds of successful plays in football this year, one single play changed my life in respect to the way many will remember me. Likewise, out of thousands of decisions in ones lifetime, a single decision may ultimately lead to ones success and happiness. On the other hand, one bad choice can alter or even devastate ones life. I never imagined that my over-all worst game this year actually turned out to be my most monumental. One of the most important 5

18 life lessons learned is that a negative experience or trial may ultimately provide the means for even greater success. Whenever I reflect back on the '69 State Game, I will remember the pass I missed just as much, or even more, than the pass I caught. Sparing me of a legacy of lifelong embarrassment, shame, and ridicule is really my hidden greatest blessing of all. The notoriety of the great victory in the state playoff game brings a new sense of compassion to my family. People we hardly know are providing acts of kindness. With the help of many good friends and unseen good Samaritans, we will continue to manage and survive the tests that will come in the future. The heroic life my mother lives each day, against insurmountable odds, leaves me with an even greater challenge to live up to her outlook about life. The trials as well as positive moments about my life are very personal to me. I share them with you in order to give a deeper insight about me and my family. I hope that someday I will fully comprehend what has transpired in my life and have a true understanding of why. My valiant mother, Marge Barton, has a life motto. Endure to the end. Complaining or feeling sorry for herself rarely surfaces. Her example of courage and hope lets me know that she faces her Goliaths straight on. I know now that I can face mine. 6

19 [3] "It Ain t Over Till It s Over!" Written by Bill Marcroft (Longtime Utah Sportscaster) That Yogi Berra became a truth to me about 30 years ago, while I was covering a Utah State high school football championship game at Rice Stadium between Skyline in Layton. I had covered Skyline throughout the entire season. In fact, I televised several of their games. So I bet Dick Rosetta, the Tribune prep sportswriter, that Skyline would win. With just minutes left in the game, Layton was leading and Skyline was pinned down on their own 31-yard line. It was 4thdown and a bunch. I walked over to Rosie, in the press box, and gave him five dollars. The game wasn t over, but the prospect of Skyline winning looked impossible. I, in an effect, had given up not so for the Skyline football players. Quarterback Steve Marshall took the snap and threw a receiver screen-pass way over to the right side. The wide out was a 15-year-old sophomore named Dave Barton. We didn't know too much about him. His brother Rick, a tackle, was the Barton everybody knew. He was a senior and All State. The pass was a wounded duck, not one of Marshall's best. The younger Barton hauled it in and danced 69 yards for a touchdown that won the game. I went looking for Rosetta, who had left the press box to get my five dollars back and collected his. Several times during the past 30 years, I've told that story on the air---whenever the situation looked bleak for one team or another. You play until the final whistle, gun, or buzzer, because on that day long ago, I learned that it ain t over till it s over! 7

20 Additional article from the Salt Lake Deseret News, Saturday, November 22, 1969 Skyline head football coach Ken Schmidt lets it all out in a big jump for joy as his Eagles cop 1969 Class AA title. Real Gasper! Skyline... Champs! By Dan Pattison Deseret News Sports Writer For Skyline sophomore David Barton, Friday was a day he will remember for a while. He went from goat to instant hero. Just before the half, Barton was all alone for a pass from Steve Marshall and he dropped it. It was a small case of sophomore-itis in a big game. And it was a big game for sure! With 38 seconds left in the contest, Barton brought the 11,000 estimated fans at the Ute bowl to their feet. He took a screen pass from Marshall, eluded three Layton tacklers, skipped down the Lancer sideline 69 yards for the winning touchdown, Elated Eagle mentor Ken Schmidt explained, "You know they're going to be dropping back to cover against the bomb so 8

21 you try to catch them off guard and sometimes it works. It wasn't luck; it was just great blocking and execution!" Skyline found another Davis County foe Layton ripe for another grid championship. The Eagles won the Class AA grid title much to the delight of Skyline rooters. In 1967, the Eagles defeated Davis for the Class A title. In the fourth quarter, the Layton gridders put together one of the greatest comebacks in the Utah prep title history, only to have it wiped out with Barton's effort. Robert Hare took a handoff from Gordy Eckersley on a punt to return it 27 yards to Skyline's 38-yard stripe. In eight plays, the Lancers got their first score when Phil Graham popped in from the five-yard line at 8:49. Deseret News All-State guard Kenny Nelson had thrown a block to free Graham. Val Hinze booted the PAT. The Lancers staged another drive of 67 yards late in the fourth stanza. Dick Bubak's club not only staged a great comeback against a strong Skyline wall, but also against the important factor the clock! Layton scored with :49 seconds left in the game on the play, which worked before Graham over Nelson's block for a threeyard tally. Time seemed to be in the Lancer's' favor until Barton got his hands on the ball. Forgotten in the excitement was the fact that Jim Brenan had returned Layton's kickoff 31 yards to get the Eagles better field position. What Layton had done in the first half was the real deciding factor in the fray. "We made too many mistakes in the first half and found ourselves behind, 13-0," offered Bubak post game. Marshall, Engineer Marshall, behind all the excitement, was the field engineer and proved to be "Johnny on the Spot." He plucked off Layton q-back Dick Strong's first play of the game on the 23-yard line. He had his own pass intercepted by Hare on the goal line, but came right back and recovered Eckersley's fumble on the 11-yard line. Three plays later, Marshall found his favorite target Lance Robbins for a seven-yard TD at 8:18. Skyline's extra point attempt proved to be its fate. Marshall pitched to Barton, who was stopped short by the tough Layton defense. 9

22 The Marshall-Robbins combo served notice again just before the half. The Eagles flew high with Steve's 57-yard TD toss to Lance at 1:02. Scott Pace booted the PAT. Pace and Hinze put on a dazzling display of punting. Both kickers must have averaged well. Both coaches would have to admit that their kids played great comeback roles. This is a fine tribute to both coaching staffs. Hard-Nosed Football It was a day for hysteria, and delirium, but it was a classic for just the Eagle hard-nosed football. Eagle defense of the Deseret News All-State tackle Rick Barton, Mark Berntsen, Dane Smith, Ken Hurst, Kelly Nelson, Dave Jackson, Mike Berry, Steve Marlowe, John Bushman and Marshall was tops. You have to hand it to Layton's tough defense, too. Danny Buckley, Dennis Williams, Todd Morgan, John Lowry, Randy Tometich, Dean Corbridge, Randy Stevenson, and Hare were tough. Layton had won 11 straight games since losing to Davis, 2-0, and the Eagles had won eight straight frays since losing to the Darts, What a great finish for the Utah school prep football season! 10

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