What Did You Ask Lance Alworth?

Thank you Todd and thank you Mr. Alworth!

Thanks Todd. Interesting that Lance named Willie Frazier as the most gifted athlete in the AFL. Willie, if he played today, would be the equivalent of Antonio Gates with all of the rule changes in today’s game.
If I remember correctly, Lance did not play in the 1967 AFL vs NFL exhibitions due to an injury. Sid held Lance, Speedy Duncan and others out as he wanted them healthy for the regular season, whereas George Allen wanted to win to make a statement. Jeff Staggs was moved back to linebacker from TE because of all of the injuries. It was a disappointment to us AFL fans. In 1968 the Chargers and Lance drilled the Rams at a sold out San Diego Stadium.

I was a 16 year old at the Charger summer camp in 1969and was employed as a ball boy. Willie Frazier was at Irvine that summer playing for the Chargers. He was a grest guy and very kind and friendly to me. I saw him throw the football with either arm over 50 yards. I saw him kick the ball as if for a place kick ovrr 70 yards he wss a great athelete. That summer Pete Barnes was there and I was very friendly with him I called him ol buddy he called me young buddy..while at college he also was a great baseball player..

That was really good, Todd. Thanks to both you and Mr. Alworth.

I’d like to request that the next interview be with Otis Taylor. I understand he’s not in very good health these days. If it’s possible, and if he’s willing, I’d LOVE for O-Taylor to answer our questions.

I thoroughly enjoyed the interview. It’s nice to know that one of my all time favorite players is such a good guy. Great sense of humor, too. If you do this again, Todd, please ask Lance to tell a Sid Gillman story. He was one of the most entertaining coaches when miked during games along with Stram and Saban. My sister got to know Sid and his wife when he was working for the Oklahoma Outlaws of the USFL. When she told me that, I freaked out and said, “Do you have any idea who Sid Gilliam is!?!” I then explained what an influence he was on pro football.

Lance mentioned Willie Frazier as being the best athlete he’d seen in the AFL; sadly, Frazier has passed away:

http://blog.chron.com/ultimatetexans/2013/09/willie-frazier-former-oiler-tight-end-was-71/