Ilion High School - Class of 1972

Herkimer Evening Telegram - September 17, 1971

Wilson And Lane Anchor Ilion

Article 11

Wilson And Lane Anchor Ilion

ILION — "We have potentially a good nucleus to work with, but we are inexperienced, we are small in size, and our success will depend on how rapidly we can improve.

This is how Ilion Head Coach Nick Pannes describes his 1971 Golden Bomber team.

"We are very thin in all positions", Pannes explained. "It will be difficult to replace last year's team which had 20 seniors graduating."

Ilion, which tied for second in the Iroquois League with Herkimer (5-2 in league), last year, lost such outstanding performers as all league tailback Billy Volo who led the league in scoring, as well as four other all-league players, guard Bob Bennett, tackle Jim Vibbard, linebacker Dennis Hoffman and tackle Tom Golden.

So with only 13 lettermen returning (only three of them started last year), it is going to be a rebuilding year for the Golden Bombers.

Seniors Ken Smith and Todd Weller, both up from the JV's, are expected to provide the running power behind quarterback and co-captain Steve McGrath, who is also a fine runner.

Bob Streeter, out last year with injuries, is a top prospect to land a tackle position, according to Pannes.

"We expect our line to be anchored by Ron Wilson, co-captain and center, with help from tackle Bob Lane."

"As far as the defense goes, we are inexperienced and will be looking to our junior class for a lot of help here."

In sizing up the new league. Pannes named Herkimer, Frankfort and Johnstown as the teams to beat.

He expressed regret that Oneonta and Norwich were no longer in the league "as they gave the league the competitiveness it needed."

Ilion has replaced traditional opening foe Notre Dame of Utica with New Hartford. The Bombers travel to the Spartan stronghold tomorrow at 2.

Photo Caption - THIS YEAR'S Ilion coaching staff includes (from left), George DeLuco, Martin Manion, head coach Nick Pannes, Vito Tisci and Bob Turley.