In 1965, the Pana Panthers surprised many skeptics. The Panthers, backed by the enthusiasm of the entire city, rolled on to their first undefeated season since 1955. Under the leadership of the able captains Jim Bates and Dick Lees, the determined Panthers truly showed “team effort” in overcoming seemingly impossible odds. They broke Effingham’s 18 game win streak, as well as allowing only 33 points in 9 games while scoring 161. Because of this team effort, the entire varsity squad was named “Most Valuable Player.” Dan Weakly was named Honorable Mention on the All-State Team, while Charlie Wagner was named Special Mention.
Many of these football players played on the Conference Champion Track & Field Team, Conference Champion Baseball Team, and Third Place Conference Basketball Team. Several of these men served our country during the Vietnam era.
Nokomis 13 – 7 Carlinville 14 – 14 Vandalia 29 – 0 Taylorville 7 – 7 Shelbyville 19 – 0 Litchfield 20 – 6 Greenville 28 – 0 Effingham 20 – 0 Hillsboro 21 – 0
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