Barberton's 100 greatest Football players

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Myself and six others have been getting together over the last couple months and have been really discussing Barberton's football history. This is the first of several threads I will be posting in the next two months leading up to the 2007 football season. I will post 10 players per post.


100. Alonzo Mitchell. Mitchell started his playing days on the Decker elementary 6-man team in the 1960's. He was part of that powerhouse 1973 team and was the perfect compliment to Robbie Robertson. After High School, Mitchell would continue playing for Youngstown State.

99. Kevin Murphy. The QB on that 1973 powerhouse, Murphy is also the nephew of John "Jack" Murphy. Murphy guided the 73 team to a 9-1 record dropping a hotly contested 14-8 decision to Warren Western Reserve. After High School, Murphy would switch to RB at the University of Toledo.

98. Dan Baker. A stud linebacker in the late 70's, Baker teamed with Karl Niehaus in 1977 and Doug Dillon in 1978 to give the Magics a deadly duo at LB. Baker would play well at Youngstown State.

97. Dan Krieghbaum. A tough DT in the late 70's, Krieghbaum was brutal and was the perfect lineman in Rudy Sharkey's "Purple Gang" Defense. Krieghbaum would do quite well for the Akron Zips.

96. Fred Himes. Himes teamed with Joe Ries to provide ample protection for QB Scot Loeffler during the 1991-92 seasons. Big, fast and strong, Himes would go on to star at Hofstra.

95. Len Blanar. A starting guard on Barberton's 1947 state champs, Blanar was tough as nails. He also played NT on defense. Blanar would go on to play for Kent State.

94. Archie Strimel. The QB who came right after Ken Sennett, Strimel carved out his own niche of greatness. He went on to play for Miami(Oh) where he played QB and was also a Kicker.

93. Terry Kapish. In 1974 Kapish, a Tailback, teamed with FB Pete Burroughs to give the Magics a lethal backfield. Terry would go on to play quite well for the Miami Redskins.

92. John Hurst. A mammoth Lineman in the early 80's. His greatest day came against Massillon in 1981 when he dominated in pass blocking to allow QB Brian Brietenstein to have a huge game in an upset over the Tigers. Played for Wisconsin-Superior.

91. Mike Jones. A brutal DT in the late 70's, Jones was the spearhead of that great 1978 defense that gave up only 44 points! Jones would be a four year starter at Eastern Michigan.
 
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90. Tony Nelloms. A strong lineman in the late 70's. Nelloms played both guard on offense and tackle on defense. Originally went to Youngstown State but later transfered to Wilmington. As a senior in 1983, he was named to the all Hoosier/Buckeye Conference team and was also a D2 All-American.

89. Jeff Finley. The QB on the powerful 1978 Magics. Finley was a good passer and solid runner who possesed great leadership abilities. Jeff would switch to safety at Akron.

88. Tom Postak. A terrific two-way lineman in the early 60's. Postak had his best moment as part of the famous "Cherry Picker" play against Garfield in 1960. Played for Iowa State.

87. Doug Huffman. Maybe the best pure passer Barberton ever had. Huffman had a strong accurate arm and was a field general. He played for Youngstown State but injuries forced him out of the game after only two seasons.

86. Fred Robertson. One of many tremendous DB's to come out of the Sharkey era, Robertson was fast and hit with authority. Had a great career at Akron and was the Zips Team Captain as a senior in 1981 and would also earn the Harry "Doc" Smith Award.

85. Bob Freeman. Freeman was one of the star lineman of the 1947 state champs. He went on to a tremendous career at Mount Union. Later he would serve with distinction as a Naval Officer during the Vietnam War.

84. Matt Jenson. A terrific three sport star at Barberton. Jenson excelled as a QB in the mid 90's. He would go on to Walsh where he would pass for over 5,000 yards in his career.

83. Mike Raplenovic. Raplenovic was a great "Triple-Threat" player in the 1920's sometimes single handidly leading Barberton to victory. Mike would go on to play Football, Basketball and run Track for Grove City College.

82. Jay Malo. Malo was a big, fast and aggressive DE in 1979-80. Had a great game in a 0-0 tie with St V. in 1979. St.V was state runners up that year. Played well at Wisconsin-Superior.

81. Terry Cameron. Cameron teamed with Larry Ricks in 1977 to form a great backfield. Cameron would graduate to Akron U where as a freshman he would lead the Zips in total yards and set a record by scoring five TD's in one game. He would drop out of college after that season and join the Army. He remains a soldier to this day.
 
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80. George Izo(Sr). The father of legendary QB George Izo(Jr.) the elder Izo was a great in his own right. After a great career in High school, Izo would play for Knute Rockne at Notre Dame.

79. Huston Krieghbaum. One of the earliest stars at Barberton, Krieghbaum and others like him are why we play football. Unfortunately, records were not kept very well during his time so the full extent of his greatness may never be known. What we do know is that he was the team leader in scoring during the 1906 season and that he was a star at Heidelberg. In 1909, he was named fullback on the All-Ohio College team.

78. Jim Stewart. One of many great QB's Barberton has produced. Stewart received the first athletic scholarship ever given by CW Post. For many years, Stewart held virtually all the passing records at Post.

77. Bob Burroughs. A brutal FB and Wrestler in the late 50's. Bobby was off to a great start at Dayton but grades eventually did him in.

76. Joel Campbell. A two year starter at guard for the Magics in 1976-77, Campbell teamed with Chuck Rowland, Bob Hill and Tim Phillips to give Barberton an overpowering offensive line. Joel would go on to Mount Union where he was named to the All-OAC team in both 1980 and 1981.

75. Ed Rooney. Rooney was an outstanding Wr and basketball player in the mid 1950's. He was the favorite target for QB George Izo and the two of them hooked up many times. Rooney would play for Pacific University and was named to the All-Northwest Conference team as a senior. He is a member of the Pacific University Hall of Fame.

74. Dave Burroughs. One of the many weapons on the 1978 Magics. Burroughs was a big and fast WR who teamed with Wr Dave Peters, Qb Jeff Finley, Fb Ron Gable and Tb Larry Ricks to give the Magics one of the most potent backfields in Summit County history. Burroughs would go on to play for West Virginia.

73. Jim Valencheck. As tough and hard-nosed as they come. Valenchek was a terror running between the tackles. He would switch to safety at Akron and would be a 1AA All-American in 1979.

72. Bill Thombs. In the late 50's, Thombs was the best athlete in Barberton. He took his skill to Wooster where he would star in Football, Basketball and Baseball. He was named All-Oac in football(1960) and in baseball(1961). He is a member of the Wooster Hall of Fame.

71. Joe Griffith. Another great Qb. Griffith played both football and baseball at Miami. After college, he had a tryout with the Buffalo Bills.
 
70. Jim Whitman. A powerful FB who teamed with HB's Leo Brantly and Jack Romain as well as QB John Mackovic giving Barberton an overwhelming backfield. He would go on to a fine career at Kent State.

69. George Moyer. Moyer gets an incomplete as he was unable to compete after high school due to service in WW2. Moyer was an All-State End as a Senior in 1942. He stood 6'2 and was said to have never come up against a faster player. Had it not been for the war, he likely would have played at a major university.

68. Rick Boley. Boley was a star End in the early 1960's and is generally considered Barberton's first modern pass catcher. He brought in passes from both John Mackovic and Ron Mollric. Boley would play for Purdue in college.

67. Doug Dillon. Another great Linebacker from the Sharkey era. He went on to great career at Akron where he was team captain in 1984 and also earned the Harry 'Doc" Smith award.

66. Jim Board. A tremendous DB during the 70's. Board was cut from the same cloth as other DB's from that era such as Fred robertson, Booker Webb and Doug Seibert. Board was named All-State in 1975 and would play for the Akron Zips.

65. Johnson. Johnson gained notice as a lineman in the 1930's from opening mammoth holes for "Jumpin" Joe Williams. Johnson parlayed his success in high school into a strong career for the Purdue Boilermakers.

64. Karl Niehaus. The endless parade of great Linebackers from the 70's continues with Karl Niehaus. Big and fast, Niehaus hit with authority and also had enough speed to be succesful defending the pass. He would play in College for Maryland.

63. Larry Smith. An All-State lineman as a senior, Larry Smith opened holes for Bobby Burroughs in the late 50's. He would later play for the Bowling Green.

62. Al Simmons. A tremendous DE for the original "Dirty Dozen" defense. Simmons rushed the QB well and also contained the outside in stifling the running game. In 1973, Simmons lead a defense that gave up only 38 points! Al would play for Joe Paterno at Penn State.

61. Charlie Mitchell. While Barberton had a few Black players before, it is Mitchell who gets the credit for kicking open the door for African-American players in Barberton. Before, players like Lee Hill and Welby Broadus were relegated to reserve roles. In 1950, Mitchell was an All-State RB leading the Magics to an 8-1 record and #3 ranking in the final polls. The Magics racked up 299 points during that 9 game season. Mitchell would go to star at North Carolina A&T.
 
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60. Mike Palija. A gifted Wr in the late 60's. Palija would wind up playing for Miami(Oh) where he would lead the team in receiving three consecutive years. Mike would be selected All-Mac as a senior in 1970.

59. Pete Burroughs. A battering ram Fullback from 1973-5, Pete would help the Magics to a combined record of 23-7 during those three seasons. He would blow open holes as a lead blocker for the likes of Robbie Robertson, Alonzo Mitchell, Terry Kapish and Jim Valenchek. He was also a stong Linebacker. After high school, he would play for Wisconsin.

58. Dave Peters. A great all around talent, Peters was just as good a Wr as he was a Safety. He scored 5 Td's vs. Toledo Scott in 1978. Attended Youngstown State where he played Safety. As a senior in 1982, Peters lead the OVC and was 2nd in the nation(1AA) in interceptions. He was named to the All-OVC team in 1982.

57. Keith Luck. Another gifted Linebacker from 70's. Luck was a terror on opposing ball carriers as part of that brutal 1973 defense. Originally attended Toledo but transfered to Akron. Earned the Harry "Doc" Smith award in 1976.

56. Marco Burnette. A great QB in the late 50's. Burnette attended Akron and was a two year starter for the Zips. He would later coach for Akron.

55. Robert Culbertson. A hard nosed two-way lineman in the late 30's, Culbertson paved the way for the likes of Welby Broadus and Johnny Ries. After high school, Culbertson attended the Military Academy at West Point where he played reserve football and also became a pilot. LT. Culbertson was killed in 1944 when his plane was shot down over Luzon, Phillipines.

54. John Miga. A fast, shifty back in the early 20's, Miga was also a terrific DB and dangerous kick returner. Injuries cut short his college career at Ohio State.

53. Gary Kovacs. Kovacs was an All-State Tight End in 1972. He had great hands and was also a very, very good blocker. He would go on to play for the Pitt Panthers.

52. Ed Zalar. Zalar was an End and Tackle during the early 50's starting on consecutive 8-1 teams in 1950-51. His aggressive style gained notice all over the mid-west and eventually he chose Michigan State. As a Spartan he would be a two year starter.

51. Pat Watkins. An All-State NT in 1974, Watkins may have been the best defensive player Rudy Sharkey ever had. Unfortunately, Watkins did not play in college despite being highly recruited.
 
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50. Richard "Doc" Stefanek. A great Defensive End and brutal wrestler in the early 1950's. Stefanek would attend Wooster and was named All-Ohio Conference in 1953 and 1954. He was also named to the All-Ohio College Team. He was also a conference champion and All-Ohio selection in wrestling. "Doc" is a member of teh Wooster Hall of Fame.

49. Don Blinn. In the late 30's/early 40's, Barberton had a reputation as being very tough physically and it was because of players like Don Blinn. Blinn, a Center, Linebacker and Kicker. With Blinn on the line, George Moyer at End and a backfield that included Eddie Janiga, Paul Ratay and Cassious Sisler, the Magics were a powerful program. Blinn would go on to play for Kent State but would drop out to serve in WW2. After the war, Blinn would work every Barberton home game as part of the chain gang from 1946-2005.

48. George Galat. One of many strong RB's to come through Barberton. As a senior in 1946, Galat would be part of a stable of RB's the likes of which Summit County has never seen. Joining Galat were fellow seniors Paul Hydock and Milan sellers as well as juniors Paul Gondor, Dick Goudy and Bob Sabol. Galat would have a strong career for Miami.

47. John "Jack" Murphy. Murphy would first show his ability as an End on the 1947 Bantam League Champion Barberton Barons. He would star for the Magics in 1948-49 before embarking on a great career at Heidelberg. As a senior, he was named to the All-OAC team. After his playing days, he would serve as an assistant at Toledo and as head coach of Heidelberg and Toledo. In his first season at Toledo, he guided the Rockets to an 11-0 record, MAC championship and a win in the Tangerine Bowl. In doing so, he became the first coach to go 11-0 in his first year as a 1A coach(Since equaled by Terry Bowden of Auburn in 1993), Murphy was also the MAC Coach of the Year and the Ohio Coach of the Year. He is a member of the Heidelberg and Toledo Halls of Fame.

46. Mario Russo. Like Doc Stefanek, Russo was a strong Football player and Wrestler in the early 50's. Russo would go to Akron where in 1955 he would be selected to the All-OAC team, The All-Ohio College Team, was awarded the Touchdown Trophy as Akron's outstanding lineman and was named team captain. After playing, he served as an assistant at Dennison, Toledo, Bowling Green and Wisconsin as well as being the Head Coach of the Balogna Warriors of the Italian Football League. He is a member of the Akron Hall of Fame.

45. John Jones. A RB and LB in 1979-80, Jones was big and fast. He played with a nasty demeanor which earned him a scholarship from Michigan State. He would have a fine career with Spartans.

44. Ron Mollric. A terrific QB and Punter in the early 60's. Mollric would have a great career at Kent State.

43. Glenn "Dig" Eberhardt-Another player who is largely forgotten. Dig team with the likes of Abe Yackee, "Dutch" Foust and Frank Goettge to set scoring records for Barberton football in 1912. Eberhardt would have a fine career at the University of Akron.

42. George Toneff. The older brother of Bob Toneff, George was a hulking lineman in the 1940's. After a dominating high school career he would play for Ohio State. Later, he would play briefly for the Cleveland Rams.

41. Fred Johnson. Other than Jeep Davis, Fred Johnson may be the best all around athlete in Barberton history. An All-State basketball player, Johnson also finished sixth in the high jump as a senior. And, oh yeah, he played D1 College football. Hampered by injuries, Johnson made the most of his opportunities as a WR and Kicker for Miami. He holds the Tangerine Bowl record for longest FG.
 
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40. Tony Pallija. One of Barberton's best DB's ever. Tony would become a star at Akron earning the Harry "Doc" Smith award as a freshman in 1967. As a senior in 1970, Tony would be named All-American. He would sign with Buffalo as an undrafted free agent but never actually played for them.

39. Paul Walker. A devastaning lineman in 1963 and 64. Walker would acumulate award after award including: Akron Beacon Journal Player of the Year, District Lineman of the year and was a Prep All-American. Paul would find his way to the University of Cincinnati where he would play for two seasons before an ankle injury ended his career.

38. Harry "The Horse" Hummel. Harry was a powerhouse RB in the 1950's who was next to impossible to bring down one on one. He was offered a scholarship by Woody Hayes to play football for Ohio State but turned it down and joined the Air Force. After his service, he would play briefly for Wooster before embarking on a long career with the Barberton Fire Department.

37. Karl "Zip" Zalar. Another multi-sport star, Zalar was strong in Football, Basketball, Baseball and Track earning twelve varsity letters at Heidelberg. Zalar is a member of the Heidelberg Hall of Fame.

36. Frank Ratay. Frank was a tough Guard and Defensive Tackle on Karl Harter's teams of 1935, 36 and 37. He was named to the All-State team as a senior. Ratay originally played for Akron but later transfered to Mercer. He would have a tryout with the Rams.

35. Milan Sellers. A hard charging FB in the mid 1940's. Sellers would play two years for the Indiana Hoosiers before transfering to Florida State. He would lead the Seminoles in scoring both seasons and was named a "Little" All-America as a senior. Was drafted by the Cleveland Browns.

34. Paul Gondor. One half of the famed "G-Men", Gondor teamed with Dick Goudy in 1947 to form possibly the greatest one-two punch in Summit County history. Gondor was an All-State halfback as a senior leading the Magics in scoring. Gondor would score two TD's against Massillon in a 26-12 victory that earned the Magics the state championship. He is one of only five players to score over 100 points in a season for Barberton. Gondor originally played for Tennessee but would later transfer to Miami.

33. James "Red" Glancy. One of the greats from the 20's. Glancy, Price and Wright were too much for most teams to handle. Glancy would move on to Ohio Weslyan where his play earned him a spot on the All-Buckeye Conference Team in both 1927 and 1928. He was also the team captain in 1928. Is a member of the Ohio Weslyan Hall of Fame.

32. Art Wright. Wright was part of those strong teams in the early 20's with Jimmy Price and James Glancy. He would head to Macon, Georgia to play for Mercer College. At Mercer, he was an All-Sectional player and a team captain. Art Wright Stadium in Wadsworth is named in his honor.

31. Glenn "Bo" Schembechler. Bo was an awsome two-way lineman in the 40's. He would go on to play both football and baseball at Miami. After his playing days, Bo was an assistant at Dennison, Bowling Green, Northwestern and Ohio State before moving on the head coaching positions at Miami and Michigan. He won two MAC championships and THIRTEEN Big Ten championships. He was MAC COY once and Big Ten COY 5 times. National COY in 1969. Bo is a member of the following Halls of Fame: Barberton, Summit County, Miami University, Michigan University, State of Michigan, Mid American Conference, College Football and Rose Bowl.
 
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30. Bob Kapish. An outstanding TE and DE for the 1947 State Champions. Bob would move on to Notre Dame where he would earn three varsity letters and was a two year starter. He was a reserve that saw plenty of action on Notre Dame's 1949 National Championship team. Sevice in the Korean War prevented a trip to the NFL.

29. Cassious Sisler. The nephew of Baseball legend George Sisler, Cass was an outstanding RB and DB from 1938-40. Teamed with Paul Ratay in 1939-40 to give the Magics a dominating duo in the backfield. After High School, Cass went to Penn state where he starred on the freshman team in 1941 and earned a varsity letter in 1942. His playing days were interupted from 1943-45 due to service in WW2. After returning from combat, Cass attended Western Reserve University where he dominated in 1946 and 47. Cassious Sisler is a member of the(Case) Western Reserve Hall of Fame.

28. Bob Stimac. Another great all around player, Stimac was a stud FB before moving to QB as a senior. He attended the Naval Acadamy at a time when the Midshipman were a powerhouse program. Stimac played well for Navy's Plebe(Freshman) team. However, things didnt work out for Bob and he transfered to Kent State. At Kent State he was a three year starter at QB.

27. Mark Scaar. A star QB for the 1947 State Champs, Scaar was also a strong basketball and baseball player. After directing the Magics to the championship in 1947 Scaar had another strong season in 1948. He would attend Michigan and would star on their freshman team in 1949. A shoulder injury limited his playing time for the Wolverines over the next three seasons.

26. Dick Hunter. Hunter started his career as a FB on the 1947 Bantam League champion Barberton Barons. He remained a FB in 1948 and 49 before switching to QB in 1950. That year he lead the Magics to an 8-1 record and a #3 finish in the state rankings. Hunter would go to Miami where he was named All-Mac as a senior. His touchdown pass against Indiana in 1954 accounted for all the points in a 6-0 win, Miami's first ever over a Big Ten team. After playing, Hunter was head coach at Wadsworth and an assistant at Dennison, Wake Forest and Michigan. He is a member of the Miami Hall of Fame.

25. Bob Whetstone. A powerful lineman in the early 50's, Bob helped pave the way for the likes of Dick Hunter, Jerry Smith and Charlie Mitchell. Bob played a big part in those back to back 8-1 teams of 1950 and 51, both teams finishing ranked in the top 10. Bob took his talents to Ohio State earning three varsity letters and playing on two Big Ten champions.

24. Paul Hydock. Hydock, because of injury, is largely forgotton in these days. However, he was one of the best backs Barberton ever had. Hydock was offered and accepted a scholarship to The University of Minnesota but later had to turn it down due to a shoulder injury he sustained during baseball season.

23. Glenn "Jeep" Davis. Known more for all the records and Olympic gold medals he earned running the hurdles, Jeep was also a fantastic Runningback earning All-State as a senior. After completing his days on the track, Jeep returned to the Gridiron playing for the Detroit Lions.

22. Bob Harris. Another great from those early 50's teams. Harris was a two time All-State end for the Magics. Harris would go on to Ohio State where he looked like a sure fire pro player. He had a great freshman season, but he, unfortunately, suffered a career ending broken leg as a sophomore.

21. Dick Goudy. The other half of the "G-Men" Goudy and gondor were the scourge of Ohio football in 1947 leading the Magics to the state championship. Goudy would originally go to Ohio state but would later transfer to Georgia Tech. Like Bob Kapish, service in the Korean war prevented a shot at the NFL.
 
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20. Scot Loeffler. In 1991, Loeffler Quarterbacked the Magics to their first ever playoff berth. Loeffler holds every passing record at Barberton and was both an All-State and All-American. Scot moved on to Michigan where an elbow injury limited his playing time. Scot is currently the QB coach for Michigan and had previously served in the position for Central Michigan.

19. John Finn. A powerful lineman in the late 50's. Finn would attend Louisville where he would earn letters in Football, Basketball and Track. In football, Finn was a team captain and named to several All-American teams. He was drafted by both the Chicago Bears and Boston Patriots. He is a member of the Louisville Hall of Fame.

18. Cliff "Farmer" Romig. A terror on both sides of the line, Romig was a star in 1918, 1919 and 1920. He played without a helmet and was a major componant in the infamous "Tack Game" vs. Medina in 1919. One of the toughest players in team history, "Farmer" played most of a game in 1920 with a broken nose and with his left eye swollen shut.

17. Jim Stock. Of all the great Linebackers from the 1970's, Stock was the best. A dominating force in 1970 and 71, Stock would go on to star at Notre Dame. He would start on a National Champion, was team captain and was named All-American in 1974. He would be drafted by the New York Jets.

16. Marcus McKinnie. A great DB who dominated in the mid 70's. McKinnie would star at Purdue where he holds the team record for interceptions in a bowl game. McKinnie, who is the father of Antonio Pittman, signed with the Cleveland Browns.

15. Ken Sennett. Triumph and Tragedy best describe Ken Sennett, the QB who never lost. Barberton was 14-0-1 when Sennett started. His greatest triumphs were a 6-0 win over Elyria who was the states top ranked team and the last second 7-6 come from behind win over Garfield. That game saw Sennett lead the Magics down the field 88 yards in the final 1:13 to win the game. Sadly, Sennett would collapse and die in school the day before the homecoming game with Alliance. The game would go on and Alliance would hand Barberton it's only defeat of that 1964 season, 14-8. Sennett was heavily recruited and, according to his family, was going to go to Ohio State. Every year starting in 1964, the football teams gives the Ken Sennett Award.

14. Chuck Rowland. A parade All-American as a senior in 1977, Rowland was a devastating Tackle. He would spend two years at Michigan before transfering to Toledo. He would be an All-Mac selection and Third Team All-American as a senior. Chuck had a tryout with Dallas Cowboys.

13. Frank Mesek. A tremendous Center, Linebacker and Kicker in 1939 and 1940. Mesek would spend four years in the Navy before landing at Kent State. He was named to the All-Ohio College Team all four years at Kent and was and All-Ohio Conference selection as a senior. Mesek also held the record for most consecutive PAT's. Mesek is a member of the Kent state Hall of Fame.

12. Paul Ratay. A strong and fast Halfback in 1939-40-41, Paul was also a terrific DB and legendary Punter. Paul was the teams leading scorer and an All-State selection in 1941. His punt return for a TD in a 7-0 win over Garfield is considered by many to be the greatest single play in school history. According to the Beacon Journal, Ratay "Broke the tackle of every Garfield defender at least twice, changed direction four or five times and finally dragged three of the opposition the final 15 yards for the score". Known also for his thunderous punts, Paul launched an 87 yard boot against Wadsworth in 1941. Ratay, also accomplished in basketball and baseball, expressed openly his desire to play for Notre Dame. Unfortunately, WW2 came calling. Paul Ratay was killed in 1944 during the battle for Sicily.

11. John Ries. Ries was an outstanding FB, QB, DB and Kicker in the late 30's. He took his ability to Western Reserve where he was a team captain twice, An All-Big Four selection as a senior and also an All-American. He scored two Td's in a Sun Bowl victory over Arizona State. He is a member of the (Case) Western Reserve Hall of Fame.
 
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10. Robbie Robertson. One of the most decorated high school runningbacks in the history of Summit County. Robbie was the team leader in scoring in both 1972 and 1973. His 1973 total is a single season record. He was All-State in both 1972 and 1973 and was an All-American in 1973. Was the NEO player of the year and Beacon Journal Player of the Year in 1973. Originally played for Ohio State, later transfered to Arizona.

9. Albie Litwak. Another great from the 1930's. Litwak dominated in high school and in college at Western Reserve. He was named All-Big Four and All-American in 1937. After college, he played for the Rams before entering service in WW2. He was killed shortly after the begining of The Battle of the Bulge. The Albie Litwak Award is given out every year by the football team. Albie is a member of the (Case) Western Reserve Hall of Fame. In 1975, Litwak was named to Western Reserve's All-Time team.

8. Gene Kapish. Bob's younger brother, Gene also attended Notre Dame and was a three year starter. Gene was another great player from those 1950-51 teams. Gene was drafted by, but never played for the Cleveland Browns.

7. Larry Ricks. A powerful, devastaing Runningback in 1977-78. Ricks would spearhead the offensive attack on that 1978 powerhouse. All-County and All-State as a senior, Ricks would become a star at Michigan. As a senior, he would be 1st team All-Big Ten and an Honorable Mention All-American. He currently ranks 8th on Michigan's all time rushing list. Ricks would play for the Kansas City Chiefs.

6. Tom Dimitroff. A great QB from the mid 1950's, Dimitroff would star at Miami. A two time All-Mac selection, Dimitroff also played in severall college all star games. He went from college to the CFL where he was both Rookie of the Year and MVP in the same season. That lead to a contract with the Patriots. After his playing days, Dimitroff was an asistant in the CFL and at Miami. He was the head coach for Ottowa in the CFL and at Guelph University in Canada. He would finish his career as a scout for the Browns until his untimely death in 1995. Dimitroff is a member of the Miami and Guelph Halls of Fame.

5. Joe Williams. The legendary "Jumpin Joe" is the all time leading scorer in Barberton football history. His strong runing, great play as a DB and terrific punting lead the Magics to the NEO Big Ten Championsip in both 1931 and 1933. Joe's best day came against Massillon in 1933. In that game, Joe broke the big toe on his right foot on his second carry of the game. After that, he carried 23 more times and punted 12 times. He scored the only TD of the game and made numerous tackles in that 6-0 win. Williams would go to Ohio State and have a fine career. He scored a TD against Notre Dame in the famed "Game of the Century" in 1935. After college, he played in various pro leagues including a stint with the Rams.

4. George Izo(Jr.) The greatest QB in Summit County history. Izo was the Beacon Journal Player of the year in 1955, was also All-State and All-American that season. Had a great career at Notre Dame and still holds a couple records. Izo was on the cover of Sports illustrated in 1959. That year he had a great season at QB and also intercepted 8 passes as a DB. He was named to a couple All-American teams that year. The Chicago Cardinals made him the second overall pick in the 1960 NFL draft while the New York Titans(Jets) made him the Top overall pick in the AFL draft. Izo chose the NFL and played seven seasons highlighted by a 99 yard TD pass against the Browns.

3. Frank Goettge. A triple threat player from the early days of Barberton football, Goettge was the teams leading scorer in 1912 and 1913. In those two seasons, Barberton would beat Massillon by a combined score of 80-3. After High School, Goettge would play in local semi-pro leagues and also put in a year with the Youngstown Patricians. He would eventually find his way to Ohio U but his stay would be brief. With the outbreak of WW1, Goettge joined the Marines. After the war, Goettge would find his way to the football team of the Quantico Marines. It was during the years of 1921-24 that Goettge became a legend.

Sportswriter Gene Kessler: "None of the collegiate star players could cope with Goettge. Even the great Jim Thorpe in his prime would hardly surpass Goettge at off-tackle bucks"

Sportswriter Walter Camp: "Today, for today at least, I saw my all time greatest football player. For today at least greater than Thorpe on a good day. The big fellows name is Frank Goettge. He is a young Marine Corps Lieutenant from Ohio"

In 1923 Goettge scored the only TD Michigan would surrender during their National Championship season. In 1924, The New york Giants offered Goettge $15,000 to sign with them. After some thought, Goettge decided to stay a Marine. He rose to the rank of Colonal and was the Division Intellegence Officer. Frank Byron Goettge would die on Guadalcanal in 1942. He was the first football player inducted into the USMC Sports Hall of fame ahead of players like Ernie Nevers, "Crazy Legs" Hirsch and Angelo Bertelli.
 
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This is a great list but where are Joe Ries, Shuan McNulty, Jeff Patterson, Tim Robertson, Jim Six and Joe Biggins? No way Fred Himes makes it over those six guys. Come on.
 
2. Billy Taylor. Is one of the All-Time Greatest players in the history of summit County, Michigan University and the Big Ten. Taylor would be named All-Big Ten in 1969, 1970 and 1971. He would be an Honorable Mention All-American in 1969 and 1970 and a 1st Team All-American in 1971, Taylor was also the Michigan Team MVP and Big Ten Player of the Year in 1971. He finished his career as the 2nd leading rusher in Michigan history and still ranks in the top ten. He still holds the Michigan record for yards per game. after college, he would play for the Falcons and Cardinals as well as in the CFL.

1. Bob Toneff. A dominating, overpowering two way Lineman. Toneff was an All-State selection in 1947 helping the Magics capture the state Championship. He would have a great career at Notre Dame starting on the 1949 National Champions and being named All-American in 1951. He would enjoy a 13 year career in the NFL with the 49ers and Redskins being named All-Pro 6 times. Toneff would also be the Washington Redskins player of the year in 1960.
 
magicsilb said:
This is a great list but where are Joe Ries, Shuan McNulty, Jeff Patterson, Tim Robertson, Jim Six and Joe Biggins? No way Fred Himes makes it over those six guys. Come on.
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Just for the record, I really didnt have a whole lot of input on this list. My contribution was supplying a list of honors and awards that players earned in college. I personally feel that Jim Valenchek is far to low and that including Himes, Dan Kreighbaum, Alonzo Mitchell and Kevin Murphy over Jerry Smith, Bob Sabol, Joe Ries and Don Kotnik is wrong. I also feel that Goettge should be #1 and that Toneff and Taylor should be #'s 2 and 3.

Also, for some reason, there is very little information on the players from the late 80's and early 90's. I have been able to find information on Ries, Loeffler and Himes but have only been able to document a little on McNulty and nothing at all on Jeff Patterson, Tim Robertson or Joe Biggins. For some reason, the archives that we have located have little if any information on that era. You are from that era, perhaps you could give us some information about those players.

Oh well, that is what lists like this are for, debate. I think all the players on this list are great players and deserving of recognition. I also feel that there are at least 30 other players who have a legit claim to be in the top 100.
Jim Anderson, Jeff Smith, Martin Kumse, "Si" Sickler, Dick Sickler, Doug and Herman Dunwald, on and on and on.

We are currently finishing another list which will be the top ten teams in Barberton Football History. I have had MAJOR input on that list and will be posting it in the next couple days.
 
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joesports said:
frecriss this is great ... it brings back a lot of great memories about Barberton football. It reminds me of the time when Barberton athletics were fantastic.

Just one note, both Malo and Hurst didn't go to The U of Wisconsin (in Madison) they went to the U of Wisconsin at Oshkosh or something like that, which was a NIAI school at the time.
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Yes, I saw that about Hurst and Malo. They were great players but not of Big Ten caliber. For whatever reason, I didnt make the correction when I posted it but did note it when originally viewing the list.

I am glad to be getting some feedback on this. We may, in the future, put this and other information into a book. Hopefully we could raise some funds for renovating the stadium.

Again, thanks for the input and keep it coming. As far as I could tell, the flop with Hurst and Malo is the only incorrect information that I saw. I have edited it and will post their actual colleges when I find that information in my notes. I know that I have it, but I cannot, off the top of my head, remember the exact name of the College they played for.
 
Frecriss, I will get you all the info I can on those guys I can. Off the top of my head - Patterson was the Metro Defensive Player of the year (92) before going on to a nice wrestling career at Cleveland State. Biggins was all-state as a junior in 91 and never played again after his father passed at the end of the season. He maybe the best player no one remebers. McNulty was a three year starter as a Magic and went to Kent State but transfered after his 1st year to Hofstra where he started at WR for a couple years. He spent two years as a coach at Central Hower and the last I checked he was the receiver's coach a Firestone High.
 
magicsilb said:
Frecriss, I will get you all the info I can on those guys I can. Off the top of my head - Patterson was the Metro Defensive Player of the year (92) before going on to a nice wrestling career at Cleveland State. Biggins was all-state as a junior in 91 and never played again after his father passed at the end of the season. He maybe the best player no one remebers. McNulty was a three year starter as a Magic and went to Kent State but transfered after his 1st year to Hofstra where he started at WR for a couple years. He spent two years as a coach at Central Hower and the last I checked he was the receiver's coach a Firestone High.
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Thanks ILB. Getting information from players who graduated between 1988-1998 in very difficult for some reason. There is just not much about them in the archives of the Beacon Journal or Barberton Herald. It gets frustrating at times.
 
This is great. But next to impossible to get agreement . No problem with those selected. but Jeff Smith 73 and BGSU needs to be there.. Bob Werner. did i see chet Pfeister? a great player. Don Buchor? An all decade team would be interesting especially for the 40,s, 60,s and 70,s.
 
frankie said:
This is great. But next to impossible to get agreement . No problem with those selected. but Jeff Smith 73 and BGSU needs to be there.. Bob Werner. did i see chet Pfeister? a great player. Don Buchor? An all decade team would be interesting especially for the 40,s, 60,s and 70,s.
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My decade by decade team is coming very soon.

And I agree, it is impossible to get full agreement on the top 100 players.
 
Great list. When so many of the names resonate with someone like me who is not from Barberton, it just points to what a great football legacy the town has in our community. On that list alone, Davis, Goettge, Izo, Johnson, Litwak, Mesek, Ricks, Ries, Schembechler, Taylor, Toneff and Williams have all been inducted into the Summit County Sports Hall of Fame.

There looks to be a few people who deserve to be in that are not. I'll have to talk to some of the guys I know from Barberton who serve on the committee.
 
bedevil said:
Great list. When so many of the names resonate with someone like me who is not from Barberton, it just points to what a great football legacy the town has in our community. On that list alone, Davis, Goettge, Izo, Johnson, Litwak, Mesek, Ricks, Ries, Schembechler, Taylor, Toneff and Williams have all been inducted into the Summit County Sports Hall of Fame.

There looks to be a few people who deserve to be in that are not. I'll have to talk to some of the guys I know from Barberton who serve on the committee.
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John Mackovic is also in the Summit County Sports Hall of Fame. I also think that John Murphy and Tom Dimitroff should be in, Dimitroff in particular.

I also pushed hard for Leo Kinney, our first pro player, to be included on this list but to no avail.

Talk to the committee members, we would love their input.
 
I must have overlooked Mackovic on your list. My bad. I think Rudy Sharkey is in their Hall of Fame as a coach, too.

I agree with you on Dimitroff. He has an impressive resume'. According to their guidelines, while Murphy qualifies as a player, I think he'd have a better shot being nominated as a coach.
 
bedevil said:
I must have overlooked Mackovic on your list. My bad. I think Rudy Sharkey is in their Hall of Fame as a coach, too.

I agree with you on Dimitroff. He has an impressive resume'. According to their guidelines, while Murphy qualifies as a player, I think he'd have a better shot being nominated as a coach.
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I agree with you on Murphy. He was a good player but was better known as a coach.

Rudy is also in, you are correct.

And, am I embarassed. I cannot believe that:

A-The guys who compiled this list left out Mackovic.

B-I didnt catch it!

John Mackovic was a terrific QB in 1959-60. He then went on to star at Wake Forest where he would lead the ACC in Total Offense as a senior and was an Academic All-American. He was named Coach of the Year in the ACC(Wake Forest), Big Ten(Illinois), Southwest Conference(Texas), Big 12(Texas), lead the KC Chiefs to the NFL playoffs and, as an assistant in Dallas, developed Danny White into an All-Pro QB.

He won two Big Ten Championships and also won the last Southwest Conference Championship and the first Big 12 Championship. He is a member of the Barberton, Summit County and Wake Forest Halls of Fame.

Currently, Mackovic is the Head Coach of Team USA.
 
For God's sake, don't beat yourself up. Sometimes the most obvious are the ones that get overlooked. For going off memory and getting just a bit of outside input, I really don't think there can be too many you've missed. You're never going to get concensus, but from the reponses, I've only seen, "What about _______ ?" not, "Are you kidding listing _______ ?" That tells me you've done a heck of a job.
 
There are some "all State" selections missed... Mike Bodner for one. He was outstanding on a poor team. Bryan Breitenstine had most of the passing records until Loeffler took them. He broke most of the Mackovic records.
 
frankie said:
There are some "all State" selections missed... Mike Bodner for one. He was outstanding on a poor team. Bryan Breitenstine had most of the passing records until Loeffler took them. He broke most of the Mackovic records.
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You are right, the older Bodnars, both Mike and Andy, get overshadowed by Mark and Marty.

Mike was an All-State player who went on to play for Ohio Northern. Andy, who I think was the best of the bunch, did not compete in college I dont think.
 
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