St Ignatius High School - Ignatian Yearbook (Cleveland, OH)

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Football ’73 aTfT p There had always been something special about the class of 74 s football players. After all there had been four who made the varsity as Sophomores, and as Juniors they formed the bulk of the city championship team. As the season opened, visions of a late fall trip to Columbus were fantasized. Though those fantasies seemed like bitter disallusions to Wildcat fans who sat watching the team warm up in Baldwin-Wallace's Finey Stadium before the City Championship game, the first thirty minutes of football they saw showed them that indeed, this was an extraordinary team. “It was the highest point of the season.” said Head Coach Mr. Paul Nemec. ”1 think that the first half was as good a half of football that has been played by any high school team anywhere. I think it showed that we were the best team in the area.” In that thirty minutes of almost perfect football, the team showed the two major components which led them to their fine year: an overpowering offense and a steadfast defense. The potent offense had been expected from the start. The Cats averaged 27.3 points per game as a powerful offensive line and backs blasted past opposing defenses. The Wildcat defense, however, was not expected to perform as impressively: they responded to this challange by shutting out six opponents and tying the school record set in 1972 by allowing only 48 points the entire year. Of this team Mr. Nemec said. “They're certainly as good a team as we've had here in the past 10 years.” There was one blemish on the Cats record, however, which kept the team from a possible state championship. Much has been said, and much more thought about the loss to St. Edward. At the end. It seemed like there was no way we were going to lose.” commented Mr. Nemec. but then we did. It was like gold slipping through our fingers. But as Mr. Nemec pointed out: F.d's was a platooning team, while we were basically a one team

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New Voices Add To Success Of Cheerleaders And Spirit Despito the weather conditions, John Mayhor and Mike O'Brien still look to the stands lor support. Seemingly suspended in space, John Mayher stirs up stagnant spirit from the peak of the infamous Ignatius Human Pyramid. 27

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“Can Play With Anybody” Carrying the West Senate Trophy given tor his grueling line play throughout the season. Tri-captain Thom Abood strolls into the crowd Preparing tor the most important game ol the season the varsity Wildcats plan a last minute psycho-up tor St. Ed's. club, yet wc were controlling the ball at the end. I think that says something about our ball players.” The Cats fought back with wins over Latin and West Tech, but then slumped to their season low by almost being upset by John Marshall. “We dived in the midseason.” said Mr. Nemec. “the Marshall game woke us up. and wc were able to peak again at the end of the year.” Along with the fine team effort, several individuals were honored. Six players. Roger Andrachik. Tim Culver. Rick Kray. Bud Owens. Thom Abood and Brad Petrus were voted to the All-West Senate Team. Andrachik. Abood. and Culver were voted All-State: in addition. Roger received the Lou Groza award from the Cleveland Touchdown Club. Mr. Nemec was named Coach of the Year.” Add to this list the names of Jim McDonnell. Kevin McDermott, and Greg Johnson, who barely missed All-West Senate honors, and it becomes apparent just how good this team and this class of '74 was. Several Juniors performed well and lend a hopeful glow to next season. Scott Kumf. Dave Dillcmuth. Jim McMahon, and Tom Dowd were regulars and should be the leaders of next year's squad.Thc first sophomore to make the squad in two years. Bob Petrus, will be the man to fill the shoes of Roger Andrachik. 29