Ralph DeBernardo’s contradiction in character gives way to his charming disposition. Though he stands at 6 feet 4 inches and weighs 277 pounds, one mustn’t be fooled by his athletic exterior, for inside this veteran player is the Columbia spirit this season may need.
Raised in Washington Township, N.J., DeBernardo began his football career in the first grade. Dabbling in both track and basketball, it was the lure of commitment to football that led DeBernardo to focus on the sport. Experimenting a bit with the defensive end position, DeBernardo admitted to being enticed by the possibility of “just getting to hit somebody as hard as you can.” Playing in the Meadowlands, the house of the very team his Giants T-shirt promotes, DeBernardo relished the opportunity to compete at high stakes and under great pressure.
There are no doubts in the minds of head coach Norries Wilson and his Lion teammates that DeBernardo will occupy one of the five spots on the notoriously effective offensive line and play the familiar position of tackle. The responsibility and guidance of the offensive line lies in the hands of DeBernardo and his long-time teammate and friend, senior Mike Brune (alternate for left tackle).
“I’ve been playing my position for a long time, and I’ve started a lot of games. My job is to make sure that everyone is on the same page and ready to go,” DeBernardo explained. With the right side of the line still up for grabs, it is no wonder that these teammates spend their free time every Thursday taking part in a “line pizza night” followed by film sessions and a good night’s rest. When asked how many pizzas on pizza night are generally consumed, after much hesitation and a little prodding, a simple “10-12” was the answer.
Anticipation for the coming season extends to the fact that the new offensive line has never had the opportunity to be filmed, thereby adding an extra element of surprise. DeBernardo looks forward most to the crosstown rival game against Fordham, in which some of his high school friends will play, as well as the much-anticipated Princeton opener. More than anything, DeBernardo looks forward to the encouraging cheers coming from the stands and, more specifically, from his mother.
“I banned her early from bringing signs, but every once in awhile I can still hear her screaming from the sidelines,” he said.
Whether he is blasting his ritual pregame Metallica CD or pushing the incoming freshmen to the line, DeBernardo is earnest in his love for the game and his devotion to his coach.
DeBernardo has accepted the fact that this will be his last time playing football ever and looks toward a potential future at the prestigious establishments founded by J.P. Morgan. When asked if he is relieved that this will be his final season, he replied, “I am definitely not over it. You can’t play this game unless you love it.”
And love it, he does. As the final days of training come to an end, it is safe to say the fate of the Columbia offensive line lies in the capable, undeniably caring hands of senior tackle Ralph DeBernardo.
