Princeton University Athletics
Staff Profile: John Cruser
December 04, 2000 | General
The Princeton University community is endowed with some of the finest athletic venues in the country. Simply stated, athletes, Tiger fans and guests are conditioned to expect top-notch fields and indoor arenas.
John Cruser, facilities foreman, is a proud contributor to the maintenance and grooming of all the practice and game sites of Princeton's diverse athletic program. He clearly exhibits a commitment to excellence and a passion for his work.
"I lived in Princeton just four blocks from Palmer Stadium and can distinctly remember my father taking me to the Yale game," recalls Cruser. "Our seats were way up in the corner in Section 1. The stadium was packed and the experience made a lasting impression on me. I know I am not alone in my feelings. It was sad to see the old stadium go, but in return we have a magnificent family-oriented structure on the same ground."
Cruser is entering his 35th year as an employee of the University. For the past 30 years, he has worked for the Athletic Department, providing valuable services for every sport from preseason through game days.
"I don't like the word groundskeeper," says Cruser. "Our staff does so much behind the scenes to ensure that all of the games start and finish without any glitches. We enjoy watching other teams admire our facilities.
"I have a passion for every field whether it be the layout of the cross country course or the presentation of the football turf. I want everything to be perfect in order to meet all NCAA rules and, above all, I demand a safe environment for teams and spectators."
On the lighter side, Cruser recalls a most unusual evening of mishaps when Harvard visited Baker Rink. Late in the game panels of Plexiglass shattered on the ice, abruptly halting the action. "We did all we could to mend the damage," laughs Cruser. "But at that time we did not realize that a snow storm would strand the Harvard bus and leave me with the team. I ended up shuttling the players and coaches in my Chevrolet to a local inn. A policeman had been watching and stopped me on my fourth trip to inquire about my activities. He smiled and offered to help. I got home at 4 a.m.!"
In his life away from Princeton, John and his wife Lucille are avid NASCAR fans. They have a lavish motor home used to "get away from it all." On the side of the vehicle is a map documenting the places traveled from Maine to Florida. Most noticeably, a small Tiger rug graces the entrance steps to the living quarters.
"We enjoy the camaraderie of racing fans and drivers. I've met Jeff Gordon on a couple of occasions. It's a great diversion from the demanding schedule at Princeton. In addition, Lucille and I are members of two bowling leagues. No, I have not recorded a perfect game yet, but I've rolled a few 260's."
John credits his wife for all of the support she lends during the long days and frequent weekends spent patrolling Princeton's athletic facilities.
"And yes, Lucille is a vocal Tiger fan!"
by Douglas W. Mariboe