December 18, 1945: Boston, MA:
"You sure about this Tom?" Betsy asked her husband.
"Absolutely. I was talking with Coach Daniels and he said the club might be willing to keep me on as a coach," Tom Bowens told his wife. "My love for the game... it's faded some. I think... maybe, the war took a lot out of me. Changed my perspective."
Betsy chewed her lip. She knew how much football meant to Tom. "Well, if you're sure, you're sure."
Tom nodded and said, "I'm sure."
Two days later a feature ran in the Boston Globe, penned by William "Doc" Shaw:
Tom Bowens: A Gridiron Hero Rides into the Sunset
Tom Bowens, a name that reverberated throughout the football world, had earned his place among the legends of the game. Born and raised right here in the heart of Boston, Massachusetts, Tom's journey began in the vibrant city where football was more than a sport—it was a way of life.
Tom's passion for football ignited during his college years at St. Blane University, a revered institution located in the football-rich state of Pennsylvania. It was there, in 1934, that he crossed paths with Betsy Barrell, a fellow student whose infectious spirit and love for sports matched his own. Their connection grew stronger each day, and by the time Tom had embarked on his professional football career, they had become inseparable.
In 1937, after Tom's debut with the Boston Americans, he and Betsy exchanged vows, solidifying their bond in marriage. Their love formed the foundation that propelled Tom to greater heights, on and off the field. Together, they welcomed their son, George Bowens, into the world in 1940, a testament to the happiness they found in their shared journey.
Tom's arrival in Boston marked the beginning of an illustrious professional career. The Boston Americans, our very own club in the American Football Association (AFA), recognized Tom's remarkable abilities and secured his services. As an all-around talent, Tom's excellence as a receiver, blocker, and defender set him apart from his peers. His tireless work ethic and dedication endeared him to fans and teammates alike.
Off the field, Tom found solace and support in his loving wife, Betsy, who stood by his side through every victory and defeat. Betsy's unwavering belief in him fueled his drive to excel, and their enduring love provided the stability he needed amid the demands of the game.
The war came, and as it did for so many, pulled Tom away from everything he had known. He served in the Navy, and though he did on occasion find time to play football on service teams, he also saw active duty on the USS Earle, a destroyer that served as a convoy escort in the Atlantic and Mediterranean. Tom was discharged in August, with the war ended and the Earle back in Norfolk where it had been for conversion to a minesweeper in preparation for the invasion of Japan.
Tom rejoined his football club for the 1945 campaign, and the Boston Americans completed a resounding regular season, dominating the AFA's Eastern Division with a remarkable 9-1 record. The team's sights were set on the AFA Championship Game, where they would face the formidable Detroit Maroons, champions of the West, at Boston's Minuteman Stadium. Coincidentally, the Maroons were owned by Betsy's brother, Rollie Barrell, adding an extra layer of intrigue to the matchup.
As the championship clash loomed, Tom and his teammates prepared diligently. Del Thomas, the esteemed quarterback hailed as the league's best, orchestrated the offense with precision. Alongside Tom, running backs Brian "Bull" Young and the elusive Bulldog Stein formed a formidable backfield, ready to tear through opposing defenses. Tom Molloy, another talented receiver, provided a formidable tandem with Bowens, tormenting defenses throughout the season.
In the AFA Championship Game, the clash of titans took center stage. The Americans and the Maroons engaged in an epic battle, exchanging blows on the field. The Boston Americans delivered a breathtaking display of offensive brilliance, dominating the Maroons in a stunning fashion.
Brian Young showcased his explosive running skills, rushing for 134 yards and two touchdowns, while Bulldog Stein added 79 yards on the ground. Tom Bowens proved his worth as a playmaker, recording three catches for 55 yards and a touchdown, while Tom Molloy contributed three catches for 62 yards.
However, it was the masterful performance of Del Thomas, the quarterback extraordinaire, that stole the show. Thomas displayed remarkable precision and composure, completing 18-of-21 passes for 215 yards and three touchdowns with no interceptions. His exceptional performance earned him the coveted title of MVP.
As the final whistle blew, the score displayed the Americans' dominance—a resounding 56-24 victory over the Detroit Maroons. Tom Bowens, fueled by a desire to triumph and fueled by love for his family and the game, played a pivotal role in the team's triumph.
The championship trophy raised high, he shared the moment with his teammates, his family, and the passionate fans who embraced him as one of their own. Tom Bowens had etched his name in football history as a gridiron hero.
And now, just days removed from that championship-winning contest, Tom Bowens has elected to retire. "It's time," he said simply. His legacy shall endure long after his playing days. His achievements on the field, coupled with his humility and devotion to those he loved, have cemented his place in the hearts of fans and in the annals of football history. Tom Bowens became synonymous with greatness, resilience, and the indomitable spirit of the gridiron. We join the Boston American football club and the fans of Boston in wishing our hometown hero well as he embarks on the next chapter of his life alongside his wife and son.
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Tom Bowens in 1941
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