Every spring, the manicured fairways of Clear Lake Golf Club transform into a gathering place for former Ferris State football players, a tradition that blends nostalgia with friendly competition. The annual outing, now in its many years, draws alumni from across the state and beyond, each eager to reconnect with teammates who once shared the grind of the gridiron.
A Tradition of Brotherhood
Head coach Tony Annese, who has guided the Bulldogs through a period of unprecedented success, sees the event as more than a social gathering; he views it as a vital thread that weaves together the program’s past and its future. According to Annese, the camaraderie displayed on the course reflects the deep bonds formed during practices, travels, and championship runs.
For many alumni, the weekend is a chance to step out of the rhythm of everyday life and into a familiar rhythm of swing and laughter. Kurt Dubowski, who starred in the 1990s, recalls the excitement of seeing teammates he hadn’t met in decades, while Cole Meredith, a native of Big Rapids, calls the outing one of his favorite weekends of the year.
Brady Sheldon, who later played professionally in the NFL and CFL, speaks of the simple joy of swapping stories with former rivals turned friends, and Tayo Moss, a former linebacker, describes the gathering as a living testament to the program’s growth and sustained excellence.
The pride of Ferris State football is underscored by four national Division II titles in the past five years, a legacy that resonates with every alumnus present. In 2022, Jason Vander Laan’s jersey number 15 was retired, a tribute that added a poignant layer to the celebrations, reminding current players of the standards set by those who came before.
Beyond the trophies and accolades, the event reinforces a culture of mutual support that extends well beyond the campus gates. As the sun sets over the fairway, the alumni depart with renewed connections, carrying the spirit of the Bulldogs into their own futures.