From the late 1970's, through the 80's, and to the beginning of the 90's, the football program at Mahanoy Area was led by Coach Bill "Faz" Fazio.
With over 14 years of coaching under his belt at Mahanoy Area, 1978 to 1992, Coach Fazio, 81, led his team to back to back Eastern Conference championships, 87 wins and left a lasting mark on the players he coached, those who coached under him, the school district and the Golden Bear community.
At half time during Friday night's game, a special ceremony was held dedicating the field in his honor.
During the ceremony, Mahanoy Area Superintendent Joie Green presented Fazio with a plaque, before pointing everyone to the scoreboard, where it was revealed the new name of the field as, "William 'Coach Faz' Fazio Field".
"Coach Faz" as everyone calls him, credited his success on the coaches that worked under him and the students that played for him.
"We wouldn't of had the success we had without the best coaches in Schuylkill County and players that played for me throughout the years. They are the real heroes". said Fazio.
As half-time ended, the 2018 Mahanoy Area Golden Bears returned to the field, and gathered on the sidelines and huddled around "Coach Faz" to say "thank you".
