Milan, Indiana's Glory Showered Upon Contestants of America's Best Couple Competition: Mike Tussey
Dave and Karen, a beloved couple from the small town of Milan, Indiana, have found themselves in the spotlight once again. They are currently competing in Variety magazine's 'America's Favorite Couple!' contest, vying for a $20,000 Grand Prize.
Their journey together began in 1954, when they met at a school Valentine dance. Over the years, they raised their son Sam in Milan, a town known for its remarkable basketball history. In 1954, the Milan High School basketball team, which included a young Sam, won the State Championship, a feat that was later immortalised in the 1986 movie 'Hoosiers.'
Fast forward to 2015, Sam, now a 6'6 308 lb. Offensive Lineman, became a freshman member of the Thomas More College Saints football team. The Saints had an impressive season, finishing the regular season undefeated at 11-0 and winning the Presidents Athletic Conference. Sam was a key part of the team's success, with the Offensive Line, including Sam, averaging 270 lbs and paving the way for an average of 217 rushing yards per game. The quarterbacks, Jensen Gebhardt and Brenan Kuntz, combined to log 284 yards through the air while averaging 48.6 points a game.
However, the season was marred by tragedy when the team lost a player, Mitch Krammer, in a vehicle accident. Despite this setback, the Saints continued to play with determination and spirit, honouring Mitch's memory on the field.
Dave and Karen, who lived in Milan for 28 years, miss the Tailgate parties and games during Sam's college years. They have other locations on their bucket list, such as Hawaii and California, but their hearts will always be in Milan. Despite not winning the Variety magazine prize, they consider themselves winners in life.
As they continue their journey in the 'America's Favorite Couple!' contest, their story serves as a reminder of the power of love, resilience, and the enduring spirit of small-town America.
Mike Tussey, a legendary play-by-play announcer, now a regular columnist for the NKyTribune, has been following the couple's journey closely. As the contest progresses, the world waits to see if Dave and Karen will be crowned Variety magazine's 'America's Favorite Couple!'
