Bill Janicki (1970)

 Bill was a multi-sport athlete at Maryvale. During his career, Bill played Football, Volleyball, Basketball and Baseball. Bill was an integral part of some highly successful teams during his career at Maryvale. He was a member of the 1970 Divisional and Sectional Champion Maryvale Baseball team as well as a member of the Divisional Champion and Sectional Runner-Up Volleyball team. As impressive as the team achievements were, Bill’s individual performance and recognition equally stands out. Bill was 2nd Team All Star in his junior for Basketball and led the Flyers in scoring while averaging 18.7 points per game. During his senior year, Bill led the Flyers and Division 1 in points with an average of 22 points per game. Bill’s postseason accolades during his senior year at Maryvale included 1st Team All Star in Volleyball and Basketball and being named the ECIC Division I Athlete of the Year. 

Upon graduating from Maryvale High School, Bill continued his athletic and academic career at Erie Community College and then the University at Buffalo. While at ECC, Bill was a Captain for the basketball that finished ranked 13th in the nation and participated in the NJCAA Basketball Tournament. Bill also led the Eastern United States in free throw percentage. Bill went on to the University at Buffalo after graduating from ECC. AT UB, Bill played for the Bulls Basketball team and played against the likes of Doug Collins, Bob MacAdoo, Ralph Sampson, Calvin Murphy and many others that would continue their careers at the NBA level. Bill graduated from the University at Buffalo with a degree in Physical Education.

Bill’s journey brought him back to Maryvale as the Varsity Coach of the Basketball and Volleyball teams for 3 years. The Volleyball Flyers won the Division 1 and Sectional Championships during Bill’s tenure as coach.

Bill credits all of his accomplishments to surrounding himself with incredible teammates, friends and family. His most avid supporter was his father, Chet. From screaming “Come on Fireball” from the stands throughout his high school days to taking him to his very first Buffalo Bills home opener, nobody has supported Bill more than his father. In fact, since that first season opening Bills game, Bill has not missed one home opener and has been a season ticket holder since 1960.

Bill is currently self-employed in the garment and jewelry industry. His passion for life is truly shown by his love for animals. Bill had five Golden Retrievers – Dallas, Zeus, and Troy have passed but Utah, and Jaxson are currently still reaping the rewards of his affection.