A visit with WPIAL champion coach Bob Palko
|
Background Info: Bob Palko is a 1978 graduate of West Allegheny High School. He was a three-year starter at quarterback, defensive back, kicker, and punter. He attended Montana Tech and was a four-year starter at quarterback. Palko took over as West Allegheny's head coach 24 years ago and is one of the most successful coaches in WPIAL history. He ranks first among WPIAL coaches with eight WPIAL titles (1997, 1999, 2000, 2001, 2009, 2012, 2013, 2016). Palko also led the Indians to a PIAA title in 2001 and two other appearances in the finals. He takes a 216-72 career record into tonight's WPIAL Class 5A semifinal game against defending champion Gateway. Palko will retire at the end of the season. Bob Palko's thoughts on winning eight WPIAL titles "We're a family here. I didn't win eight WPIAL titles. We won eight WPIAL titles. The players and coaching staff deserve all the credit. I've been fortunate to be a part of it. Our first title was so special because our program hadn't had much success. That title set a precedent. It set a standard and winning culture. Every title is special in its own way. The most recent title (2016) was the most exciting. We went into overtime against McKeesport and beat them 38-27. Palko's thoughts on coaching his sons Tyler and Luke "It was special to coach my sons, but I treat every kid like they are my own. I'm a father figure to a lot of kids. The time I spent coaching my sons developed a special bond between us. I will cherish those times." Palko's thoughts on playing at Three Rivers Stadium and Heinz Field "Our first three titles came at Three Rivers Stadium. It was a much different to play on astroturf. We closed Three Rivers in 2001 and opened Heinz Field in 2002. It's a much better stadium with real grass." Palko's thoughts on winning a PIAA title. "We played in the state title game three years in a row, all against Strath Haven (1999, 2000, 2001). They beat us the first two times, but we were able to win the third. Winning a WPIAL title is special. Winning a PIAA title is also special. There is so much pride coming from Western Pennsylvania." Palko's thoughts on retiring "It's time for a change. It's time for something new. I'm not sure what the future holds for me, but I will cherish my time at West Allegheny." |