Hall of Fame
Robert Denniston starred at offensive tackle and defensive middle linebacker. His 6’ and 195-pound frame provided the Tomcats with a tower of strength up front. His inspirational quality spearheaded his teammates to many victories during his four years, compiling an overall record of 18-9-2. His first year at Thiel in 1946 saw the Tomcats turn in a perfect season for the first time.
Denniston was considered an outstanding blocker on offense, opening holes for some excellent backs. On defense, he played middle linebacker. One opposing coach termed him a powerhouse on defense. He put every ounce in his jarring tackles that downed enemy runners time and again. His greatest thrill as a linebacker came on Sept. 27, 1947 when he intercepted an errant Alliance College pass and raced 91 yards for a Tomcat touchdown for a go-ahead score and eventually a 19-7 victory to culminate a 4-3 season.
In 1948, Denniston helped the Tomcats to a 4-3-1 season and was recognized for his fine play by being selected to the All-Tri-State football team. He was chosen to captain the 1949 football team and responded in an outstanding manner until hampered by a knee injury. He was recognized for his fine play by being selected by the International News Service as an honorable mention on the All-Pennsylvania football team.
During his years of football at Thiel, not many all-opponent teams were named by are colleges without the offensive tackle or linebacker position being filled by Denniston. He was named the Best Male Athlete in 1950 by Thiel in recognition of his athletic and academic achievements. He was named to a tackle position on the All-Time Thiel Football Team.
