Steve Okoniewski (2008) - Grizzly Sports Hall of Fame

Steve Okoniewski

Steve Okoniewski; Bremerton, Washington; Football 1970-1971
Associated Press and Kodak first team All-American, 1970
Associated Press and United Press International first team All-American, 1971
First team All-Big Sky Conference selection, 1970 and 1971
Recipient of Montana’s Paul Weskamp Award (Outstanding Offensive Lineman), 1971
Named to the Big Sky’s 25-year Silver Anniversary Team, 1988
A second round selection in the 1972 National Football League draft by the Atlanta Falcons. As the 41^st pick overall, he is the highest drafted player in UM history
Started numerous games on the defensive line for Buffalo, Green Bay, St. Louis, and Cleveland in a six-year stint in the National Football league, and ended his pro career playing a season in the CFL for Winnipeg
Teacher and head football coach at Deer Lodge High School five years and, led Deer Lodge to the state championship game in 1979. Also served as a principal and football coach in Wibaux.
For 20-plus year he served as the principal at Luxemburg-Casco High School in Luxemburg, Wisc., and also served as the football team’s defensive coordinator
Remained involved in the NFL, serving as the administrator for the league’s scholarship program for the Retired Players Association