Thiel College Athletics

Ralph Mastandrea played offensive center and defensive linebacker during his football career at Thiel. Opponents found it difficult to score against the Thiel defensive teams during the four years of Mastandrea calling defensive signals.

The undefeated 1950 team is perhaps the finest football team in Thiel history. The 1950 defensive team was only scored on twice for a total of 13 points. Mastandrea’s blocking from the offensive center position opened the way for the offensive unit to score 206 points.

In a game against Grove City, Mastandrea picked up a block kick on the 10 yard line and raced 87 yards to the Grove City 3 yard line. On the next play, the offense scored. His fine play in 1950 brought him the following honors: All-West Penn Class B Team, All-District Team, All-State Small College Second Team, All-State Third Team and Little All-American Honorable Mention.

He captained the 1951 team and helped lead them to a 3-2-1 record with his fine blocking and tackling. In the 13-13 tie with Clarion, he found himself on the receiving end of a pass for a 50-yard touchdown. Later in the game, he blocked a Clarion punt which was recovered in the end zone for the tie.

Mastandrea was named Best Male Student-Athlete in 1951 for his athletic and academic ability. In recognition of his four years of outstanding play, he was named to the center position on the All-Time Thiel Football Team.