by Mark Benton

     Gowanda welcomed Cortland State graduate Mick Spillet as their new head coach in the fall of 1972. Spillet replaced Ernie Bareham after a five-year stint. The Panthers lost their first three games under the new coach. However, they rebounded to post consecutive shutout victories over Akron and Pioneer. Leading the way for Gowanda were Casey White, Rudy Rote and division all-star Mike Coy.

     The following season, the Panthers lost several close games before trouncing Akron 28-0 behind the running of Bill Hoppa and line play of Dick Gernatt and Mike Mentley.

     The personable and likeable Spillet resigned following the season and left Gowanda in the spring after just two years at the helm.