Stauss earns Hall of Fame honor

Photo courtesy of Albion Schools – “Trench Trophy” finalist Steven Stauss and Assistant Albion High Football Coach Mark VanderKarr

Story contributed by Mary Ann Donnelly, Albion Schools

Albion High senior, Steven Stauss was one of the ten finalists for this year’s Western New York Lineman of the Year award. He became the first Albion student to be inducted into the “Trench Trophy” Hall of Fame at the December 11 ceremony.

Stauss invited Line Coach Mark VanderKarr to attend the ceremony with him and his family. “Coach VanderKarr has been a very positive influence both personally and athletically. He has inspired me on and off the field during my three years on varsity football,” Stauss said.

Stauss plans to pursue his football career and a Business and Finance Degree in college.

The TRENCH TROPHY, WNY Lineman of the Year Award is run and sponsored by Lancaster Elks Lodge #1478, a national, not-for-profit, charitable organization. The “Trench Trophy” was established in 2003 as a way to recognize high school football players who predominantly play the position of lineman.

Award winners are determined by a group of qualified members (the committee) which is comprised of coaches and former players who voluntarily scout high school football games to rate players for nominations. At the end of the season, nominated players are eligible for the Western New York Lineman of the Year Award which includes a generous scholarship.