Editor’s Notes: I recently met a special CHS alum, Steve Phillips. He has a lot of Cardinal Sports Memories so, via a friendly interview, Steve shared some of his memories and thoughts about recent events.
Steve Phillips (aka Bird to many friends) has been spotted in Clinton after years traveling the country and, as he says, “exploring life.” Steve graduated in 1970 and has the distinction of being a three year starting QB for the Clinton Cardinals with a record of 27-3, winning 19 in a row. The Cards went undefeated in 1968. Back in Steve’s day making the playoffs was done by ‘comparing’ schedules, so believe it or not, the Cardinals did not make the playoffs during this three year span. Steve still vividly remembers when Coach Richie pulled him off to the side to tell him that as a 14 year old sophomore he would be the varsity QB. Steve started the next 30 games. When Steve graduated he went to SMS in Springfield. His second year at SMS he went out for football not knowing what to expect. He did well and was surprised when he got cut at the last minute. He transferred to UCM, got a teaching degree in Health and Physical Education. He taught out of state for a few years in Christian Schools. A death in the family brought him back to Missouri. He got out of teaching and started a series of ‘odd jobs’ mainly in construction. He even worked at the Montrose Power Station for three years.
Steve is proud of his two grown sons, Rob and David. He is presently not married. Back in 1983 Steve said he needed a change. He always wanted to experience California, so off to LA he went taking a bus. Working at an auto glass company he was encouraged by customers to go into modeling. From there he got into acting and has some credits with appearances on “Star Trek Next Generation.” He also spent time doing radio gigs in the New York area. Back in California Steve spent time with a good friend that was very connected to ‘Show Business’, directing, writing, etc. He loved it.
Why is he back in Clinton? Steve has family here. He has a sister-in-law and niece and his 93 year old mother that is needing some assistance. You may have seen Steve riding around town on his belt driven ‘Priority’ bicycle. Steve, living in the LA area, has not owned a car for 13 years. He gets around different ways friends, family, his bike.
He loves the decision that Kevin LaFavor and the school made to play a JV only football schedule this year. Steve commented, “I think it was brilliant, I could not be happier. It was the right thing to do to rebuild the program.” Steve emphasized he still feels very invested in the program, “Before the season I was given the opportunity to talked with the team. I love going to their games.”
Steve is not sure what his next adventure will be; will it be here or back in LA/Hollywood? He never thought he would return to Clinton. He really doesn’t know. He admits he still thinks about an acting career. Good luck Steve and thanks for sharing your story. (And of course, Go Cards.)
