Restivo, Joe

Joe Restivo – (2007)

 

Joseph was that rare combination – uniquely gifted academically, athletically and spiritually. In the words of his teammates: “a team player, selfless, humble, generous, strong, agile, quick, fierce, kind, introspective, wise and truly loved.

Past Lorain Sports Hall of Fame Enshrinee Coach Gene Kennedy described Joe as a big, rawboned, unyielding player who would physically manhandle most opposition players. At 6′- 4″ and 220 pounds with great agility and exceptional speed, Joe was considered one of the finest linemen during what is know as the “Golden Age” of football at Lorain High School (LHS) in the 60’s and 70’s.

Excellence in the classroom helped Joe absorb the techniques of both offense and defense with a passion for perfection. Shown a “move” or how to read a key, he practiced until it was natural to him. Coach Bill Provident, LSHOF Enshrinee said, “He was a joy to coach”.

The backs on his team loved to run behind his blocking because his exceptional ability meant yardage for them. Often double and triple teamed his senior season; he led the team in tackles on a defense designed for linebackers to make all the stops.

Joe’s coaches voted him LHS “Most Valuable Defensive Player” and “Hard Nose Player of the Year”. He set a new school record with over 2000 points in the team’s grading system for the “Black Tie Award”. Joe was voted LHS Player of the Week three times on offense and a record eight times on defense. A two year letterman and varsity captain his senior year, Joe was also a runner-up for the Golden Helmet Award which is given to the best football player in the county. He was named to the UPI All Ohio Class AAA First Team for 1970.

Harvard University welcomed Joe with a scholarship which allowed him to continue his academic and athletic careers. A two year letterman on the defensive line, he was a “significant contributor” on their 1973 and 1974 teams, earning his “Major H” letters and helping Harvard upset undefeated Yale in one of the most celebrated victories in the long history of the “Game” and the 1974 Ivy League Co-Championship.

Joseph lived a life full of achievements at every level. He was a successful attorney in Houston, Texas, who frequently represented the homeless and underprivileged. Unfortunately a dreaded illness ended his journey in 2005 at age 52, leaving behind his beloved wife, Karen, and two daughters, Catherine and Angela. Joseph left a lasting impact on those who were fortunate to have enjoyed his friendship.

*WELCOME, THE MEMORY OF JOSEPH RESTIVO, INTO THE LORAIN SPORTS HALL OF FAME*