The start of the football season serves as an ideal moment to reflect on the impactful careers of Del Bjork and John Warren, two influential figures in the history of Astoria High School football. Their legacy, highlighted in a profile from the 1973 centennial edition, showcases the profound influence of coaching on athletic development.
Del Bjork, a graduate of Astoria High, is celebrated as one of the school's greatest football players. His journey in football began under the guidance of John Warren, who is recognized as the most successful coach in the school's history. Bjork attributes much of his success to Warren, stating, “He was a major turning point for me.” Today, Bjork is a retired Army Colonel and serves as a teacher and coach at Clatsop Community College.
During his time at Astoria High, Bjork played three years under Warren's leadership, earning a football scholarship to the University of Oregon. There, he achieved All-American status and was later drafted by the Chicago Bears. Notably, Bjork was known as one of the smallest professional tackles, never exceeding 220 pounds during his playing days. Despite his size, he excelled as a lineman, earning All-Pro honors in 1938 after a remarkable season in 1937 under the legendary coach George Halas.
Bjork recalls his experience as a professional player, saying, “I was the smallest tackle in professional football.” He noted that during the early 1930s, a 200-pound lineman was considered exceptionally large. His success can be attributed to the rigorous training and fundamental techniques instilled by Warren, who was known for his no-nonsense approach and perfectionist attitude. Bjork remarked, “He was the greatest perfectionist I have known,” emphasizing how Warren's coaching style prepared him for the demanding nature of Halas's football philosophy.
Warren's ability to connect with young athletes, many of whom were close to his age, was a significant aspect of his coaching success. Bjork reflected on the challenges of the Great Depression, noting that many boys left school to work and support their families, which made Warren's coaching even more impactful. Bjork believes that the 1931 season was particularly notable, as the Fishermen claimed an undefeated season, although they were denied a championship due to a last-minute playoff cancellation.
As Warren's coaching reputation grew, so did his influence on the community. Many former dropouts returned to high school, eager to participate in sports under his guidance. Bjork noted the lack of discipline issues among Warren's athletes, a testament to the respect and admiration they held for their coach. He also reminisced about a talented junior high athlete named Uno Koskelo, who, despite his potential, chose to leave school for work, highlighting the difficult choices faced by young athletes during that era.
After his professional football career, Bjork transitioned into teaching, recognizing that the financial instability of the time made it difficult for athletes to sustain a living through sports alone. He began his educational career at Pendleton Junior High School before enlisting in the Army in 1940. His military service was distinguished, earning him the Distinguished Service Cross and five Bronze Star awards for his bravery during World War II. After retiring as a full colonel with 34 years of service, Bjork returned to education, where he continues to teach and coach at Clatsop Community College.
Today, Del Bjork's legacy as a player and a leader is intertwined with the history of Astoria High School football, a story that began with the impactful coaching of John Warren. Their contributions to the sport and the community continue to resonate, inspiring future generations of athletes.
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