Unico is gearing up to celebrate the 75th anniversary of its iconic all‑star football game, a tradition that has brought together the best of the Wyoming Valley Conference for decades.
The centerpiece will be the all‑star matchup scheduled for Thursday night at 7:15 p.m. at Wilkes‑Barre Area High School, where emerging talent will showcase their skills on the field.
Festivities kick off on Tuesday with a players’ dinner at the Mohegan Pennsylvania Casino, setting a festive tone for the week ahead.
Organizers anticipate a full house of players, their families, and special guests, while head coaches from the conference have been invited to attend.
Bill Anzalone, a key figure in the event’s planning, expects around 26 coaches to be present, underscoring the game’s growing prestige.
Since its inaugural contest in December 1951, the game has only been postponed twice — once after the 1972 Agnes flood and again in 2020 due to the COVID‑19 pandemic.
The upcoming banquet will honor not only the athletes but also Miss Unico contestants and will present the prestigious Brian Piccolo Award.
Former WVC stars such as Rocket Ismail, Qadry Ismail, Greg Skrepenak and Bo Orlando are slated to appear, alongside track standout Marc Anthony Minichello, who will receive the Sponsors Award.
Vic Fangio, the Philadelphia Eagles defensive coordinator and a native of Dunmore, will be honored with Unico’s Man of the Year award and will serve as the event’s featured speaker.
Fans and young children can look forward to food trucks, a bounce house, slides, and a performance by the Wilkes‑Barre Area marching band, making the night a community celebration.
A Milestone Celebration
The 75th anniversary marks a significant milestone for Unico, reflecting the enduring spirit of high school football in the region and the organization’s commitment to youth and community.
With a blend of tradition, recognition, and family‑friendly activities, the event promises to reinforce local pride and inspire the next generation of athletes.