Honoring a Legend: The Johnny Lujack Legacy

Lujack’s rise to stardom might never have happened if not for an unexpected twist of fate. In 1943, he became Notre Dame’s starting quarterback after the team’s previous starter, along with several other players, was called to serve in World War II. Lujack would go on to lose only one game and won his first National Championship. One year later, Lujack himself answered the call of duty, joining the Navy and putting his football career on hold. When he returned in 1946, he picked up right where he left off. Lujack led the team to back-to-back undefeated seasons, capping off his college career by winning the Heisman Trophy in 1947. His dominance on the field earned him a spot as a first-round draft pick for the Chicago Bears, where he was an All-Pro and still holds passing records to this day. 

 After retiring from the NFL, Lujack returned to Notre Dame—not as a player, but as a coach. The man who had once received a full scholarship from legendary head coach Frank Leahy now sought to give back. Lujack served as an assistant coach for two years, mentoring young athletes and sharing the wisdom that had defined his success. Eventually, he transitioned into a successful career as a sports commentator, where his insights and charisma made him a fan favorite. Johnny was a passionate golfer who won multiple club championships and achieved an impressive 11 hole-in-ones. 

Lujack was more than just a sports icon; he was a beacon of humility and generosity. He devoted much of his post-football life to advocating for youth sports programs, supporting initiatives for the Special Needs Community, and supporting his alma mater that he loved so much. Known for his ability to connect with people from all walks of life, he embodied a rare combination of greatness and grace, making him not just a star athlete but a role model for generations.

 Johnny shared a close bond with his grandson, Grant Pohlmann, a longtime Naples resident. Pohlmann described their relationship as that of “best pals.” Lujack eventually moved to Naples to live full-time with the Pohlmann family, quickly becoming an active and cherished member of the community until his passing in 2023.
Whether Johnny was dining with his friends like Frank Sinatra or enjoying a drink with his golf buddies, Johnny had an undeniable gift for making everyone around him feel special. To honor his grandfather’s legacy, Pohlmann partnered with his friend, Ted Kasemir, to create a family restaurant that embodies Lujack’s spirit of making people feel valued and celebrated—continuing a tradition of kindness, humility, and connection.