VALLEY SPORTS HISTORY

2013

• Fans of local football will have a lot of their questions about the upcoming season answered as local teams suit up for their first preseason scrimmages. How will Monessen fare without superstar Chavas Rawlins on the field? How will Belle Vernon’s game change without the services of standout lineman Dorian Johnson? Will Ringgold be able to rebound from a disappointing season last year that included losing their last four games? The coaches and players are as excited to see what their teams can do as the fans. Monessen Coach Andy Pacak said, “I think the guys are anxious to hit somebody wearing a different color helmet.”

• The paper featured a story on Lee Sala, the Donora native who excelled as both a boxer and a bowler. Sala, who was known as the “Donora Destroyer” in the ring, had 76 victories in his 83 professional lightweight bouts including 48 knockouts. He was known for his work-ethic, averaging one fight a month from 1946 until he retired in 1953. A bout between Sala and Sugar Ray Robinson was discussed but never scheduled. After retiring from the ring, Sala became a professional bowler demonstrating that he was as good at throwing a bowling ball as he was at throwing punches.

2004

• Former Belle Vernon Area football standout Erik Gill is slated to play a bigger role for the Pitt Panthers. The 6-5 inch, 230-pound junior tight-end models his playing style after his predecessor Kris Wilson, a four-year starter with 88 career receptions. “I learned a lot from Kris, now I feel like it’s my time. I’m equal to Kris in my ability to catch the ball. I may be a step slower but I am heavier. It all equals out.” He wants his coaches to know that he is more than a one dimensional tight end. He wants the ball to be thrown to him more often so he can use his receiving skills.

• Mario’s evened the Fayette County League Championships series at 2-2 with a 5-0 win over Bud Murphy’s behind the no-hit pitching of Todd Dunham, who struck out seven and walked three. Mark Edenfield broke open a scoreless game with a two-run single in the third inning and Chris McManus following with a two-run homer.

1994

• There were no surprises in the second round of the Belle Vernon-Rostraver Softball League Playoffs. As expected, Collinsburg, Mint Lounge and Charleroi Slovak Club all won their games. In the closest matchup, host Monessen PNA topped Newell Santa Barbara, 16-12. Collinsburg shut out Lowber, 7-0; Mint dropped Belle Vernon Moose, 14-6; and the Slovak Club defeated Flasks, 22-7. .

• Apparently former heavyweight champion George Foreman is not happy about the World Boxing Association denying him a title bout against Monessen’s Michael Moorer. Foreman has filed suit against the association and Moorer in an attempt to block any title fights against anyone except himself. The WBA threatened to strip Moorer of his title if he fought Foreman. Moorer said, “I’m not giving my belt for anyone.” Moorer is scheduled to fight Joe Hipp for his WBA and IBF titles in Las Vegas.