Fresno State Athletics
Alumni Spotlight: Stephen Spach
2/5/2015 12:00:00 AM | General
Describe your history with Fresno State (years attended, sport(s) played, major, why you chose Fresno State, etc.).
I grew up in Clovis and graduated from Clovis High School in 2000, so I was born and raised watching and rooting for the Dogs. I began at Fresno State as a walk-on, and after redshirting my first year, I played in the 2001-2004 seasons. I graduated in 2005 with a B.S. in Commercial Recreation.
What has been your career path since leaving Fresno State?
I was fortunate enough to play in the National Football League from 2005-2012. I spent time on six different teams during my career, and three of those seasons were with the Arizona Cardinals. My NFL days are over, and I now work as a financial consultant with the Thiesen Dueker Group here in Fresno.
How have you stayed involved with Fresno State and Bulldog Athletics since graduating?
I still reside in Fresno, and I attend games and events whenever possible. I'm also currently a member of Club Red, and donate to the Bulldog Foundation.
What is your favorite memory from your time as a Bulldog student-athlete? Is there a game or moment in particular from your Bulldog career that stands out the most?
I will treasure many great memories from my Bulldog years, but without doubt the most memorable moment was catching the game-winning overtime touchdown from Paul Pinegar in the MPC Computers Bowl on the final play of my senior season. We were down 21-7 and rallied to win against the Virginia Cavaliers. I was fortunate to be part of a determined and cohesive group of Bulldogs, and that bowl win (which gave us three bowl wins in a row) brought all our hard work to a climactic finish.
What do you remember most about your head coach?
I enjoyed playing for Pat Hill. I recall and admire his unrelenting passion and his fearless, underdog mentality. We really were not afraid to face anyone.
Who were some of your most memorable teammates and why?
NFL standouts like David Carr, Logan Mankins, Bernard Berrian, Tyler Clutts, James Sanders, etc. As well as many lifetime friends!!!
What does being a Fresno State Bulldog mean to you?
Hard work = Overachievement.
