USD 249 Frontenac Schools Hall of Fame

1951 FHS Football Team

Inducted 2026

1951 FHS Football

The Frontenac Raiders, under the helm of Coach John Spigarelli, and his able assistant Louis Brunetti, completed their 1951 football season with 9 victories and no defeats.  This feat, along with a perfect 1950 season, ran the Raider winning streak to 18 games!  In an era before KSHSAA playoffs, the Raiders were able to dominate their competition, outscoring them 342-40 on the season.  The Raiders captured undisputed possession of first place in the Crawford County League for the 2nd consecutive year as well.  Bob Smalley, Raider Halfback, received honorable mention on the Southeastern Kansas District All-Star Team.  The Crawford County All-Stars were dominated by Frontenac.  Those selected from Frontenac were:  Harry Ain, Bob Cope, Bill Merando, John Cornella, Joe Krainz, Bob Smalley, Joe Vacca, and Joe Castelli.  Castelli was also elected Co-Captain of the All-Stars.  Receiving honorable mention from Frontenac were:  Vince Rybnick, Joe Cussimanio, Jim Gadwood, Ernest Zuech, Tommy Langmann, Jack Druart, Louis Biancarelli, Joe Cicero, Charles Youvan, Bob Forbes, and Don Terlip.  

Additional Team Members include:

Kenneth Benedict

Bob Gerard

Ronnie Wattelet

Harry Davis

John Franchione

Virgil Locke

Joe Spigarelli

Vernon “Buddy” Johnson

Ronnie Mangile

Alan Morey

Donald Morey

Gary Terlip

Gary Bartelli

Jim Cussimanio

Bob Pinamonti

George Smardo

Jim Zordoni