Hall of Fame inductee Charles P. Sammarone had an outstanding athletic career while at Youngstown State, as well as a notable academic career.
Graduating from Rayen High School in Youngstown in 1960, Sammarone left behind a commendable high school career. While lettering in football for three years, he started for two seasons as a linebacker as well as a tight end and guard. His senior year in high school, Sammarone was named team captain for the Tigers and led the team in pass receptions while being nominated as All-City and All-State.
Sammarone's contributions to YSU included earning four letters on the Youngstown University football team. Sammarone's football days endured from 1961-64 where the YSU football team accumulated a record of 24-10-3. Sammarone started offensively and defensively for three years and was nominated to several All-Opponent teams. His junior year, Sammarone was recognized by Akron as an Opponent Outstanding Lineman. During his senior year, in 1964, he led the team to a 6-1-2 record and also won the Harry Rhoemer Award for Outstanding Achievement in Academics and Athletics.
Some of Sammarone's fondest memories of YSU football are those of Coach Dike Beede and the care he displayed for his players. He recalls the times when Coach Beede would hold "class" on the bus rides home and point out the specific names of birds and trees. Sammarone also considers Coach Beede as one of the people in YSU athletics who influenced him the most.
"From Coach Beede I learned dedication, sportsmanship, loyalty and to always count my blessings," Sammarone said.
Other people whom he considers to be influential to his career include former Athletic Director Willard Webster, Coach Sloko Gill, Coach Dom Rosselli, and his fellow teammates.
Academically, Sammarone studied Health, Physical Education and Biology and received a Bachelor of Science degree in education. He also received his masters degree in administration from Westminster College.
"YSU prepared me to accomplish my goals I set for myself, namely working with people in the community. Through my excellent education I was able to become a teacher, coach, and School Administrator in the Youngstown City Schools. Through the discipline and work ethic that I learned in athletics, I was able to run for and be elected to Youngstown City Council for 16 years," Sammarone said.
Currently, Sammarone resides in Youngstown with his wife Mary Ann Rango-Sammarone, with whom he has two children, Dr. Charles P. Sammarone Jr. and Christopher Sammarone. Sammarone holds the position of the President of the Youngstown City Council and is retired as a Youngstown City School Administrator.
