by Mark Benton

     In the fall of 1978, junior Cliff Wheeler scored two touchdowns as Gowanda defeated Falconer 28-6 at Hillis Field.

     Fifth-year Head Coach Bob Krenzer stated at the time that this was the best game he had ever coached or played in.

     Although the schools did not play against each other from 1968 through the 1974 seasons, this was the first win over their former Southwestern Conference rivals in 22 years. Falconer had defeated Gowanda in key games over this time period that had cost the Panthers sole possession of conference titles in 1961, 1962, and 1975.

     Two years later, Gowanda again defeated the “Golden Falcons” at Hillis Field by a score of 20-8 as senior wide receiver Mike Orth caught a long touchdown pass to break open a close game.

     Gowanda also defeated Falconer in 2002 at Ralph Wilson Stadium behind the running of Tom Palcic to win the Class “C” sectional championship.

     Special Note: Alumni members of the Gowanda Varsity Football team were introduced at halftime of the Cleveland Hill/Gowanda game played at Hillis Field on Friday, Oct. 1. Thirty-two former players attended this first-ever event. The oldest player to be introduced was Ade Westlund, a member of the 1941 Southwestern Conference championship team. The youngest in attendance was Dan Bley, who played quarterback on the 2002 sectional championship team.

     A reception was held after the game at the Slovenian Club. The Alumni football players raised $150 to benefit the current football club at Gowanda Central School. A much bigger event will be planned for next season.