Nov. 4, 2003

VILLANOVA, PA. - Prior to the Villanova-Massachusetts football game on Oct. 25, Villanova honored a pair of its greats in a tradition that has been in place since 1995. The athletic department held a pre-game reception for the families of the two honorees. Brian Finneran and John Babinecz were the guests of honor for the day. Finneran and Babinecz had remarkable careers since achieving their degree at Villanova years ago and thus deserving of having their football jerseys retired.

Then at halftime of the football game, athletic director Vince Nicastro presented Finneran and Babinecz with their framed jerseys at midfield. Their numbers will be placed on the wall of the Pavilion.

Babinecz was a standout linebacker at Villanova from 1969-71. As a three-year starter, he was named captain of the 1971 squad. A three-time All-East performer, this Wildcat led Villanova to an impressive 21-9-1 record during his Main Line career. Following his Villanova playing days, he was a 1972 second round draft choice of the Dallas Cowboys where he played from 1972-74. After his three-year stint with the Cowboys, he finished his NFL career with the Chicago Bears. John Babinecz, #64, remains one of the greats in Villanova football history.

Finneran is the most decorated wide out in school history. In 44 career games, he tallied 265 receptions for 3,872 yards and 34 touchdowns. In 1997, he garnered the Walter Payton Award given annually to the top player in Division I-AA football and is still the only receiver to earn the prestigious award. Also in 1997, he earned both the Atlantic 10 and ECAC Offensive Player of the Year Awards. This former Wildcat great still owns 14 school records including career receptions, receiving yards, receiving touchdowns and single game receptions. Currently in his fifth-year in the NFL, he is in his second season as a starting wide receiver for the Atlanta Falcons. Brian Finneran, #25, will be remembered as one of the greatest Wildcats to ever grace the field.

The honorees were able to speak to the crowd, which included their families and friends. Babinecz thanked the Block V Club, his family, his coaches and his wife for all their support throughout his career. Finneran thanked Andy Talley and his coaches, his professors, the school and his family for all the support they provided during his time at Villanova.

The Villanova Athletic Department would like to once again congratulate both Brian Finneran and John Babinecz on their lifetime achievements and thank them for continuing to support Villanova.