Athletic Hall of Fame
Kevin Mendillo '80 was one of the most accomplished players of the run of football teams who excelled in the late 1970s. According to the 1980 yearbook, Mendillo was cited for having the “Best Personality” by his 1980 classmates; he might well have been named “Best Athlete” if the class had had the category to choose from.
Kevin was SJR’s first ever First Team-All State Defensive player.
During his senior year, SJR had its second undefeated regular season in three years, and Mendillo’s play at middle guard was a major reason.
“He was our best defensive player,” said Coach Bert Ammerman, “and when you get seven shutouts and limit opponents to just 1.6 yards per carry rushing, that’s saying something.”
During his senior year, Mendillo had 30 tackles and 55 assists, including six quarterback sacks. The 1979 team that Mendillo played on as a senior surrendered just 41 points the entire season, the best defensive mark ever posted by a Green Knights team.
