MAHANOY CITY, PA — On Friday evening, five individuals were inducted into the Mahanoy Area Athletic Hall of Fame, honoring their remarkable contributions both on and off the field.
The ceremony took place ahead of Mahanoy Area’s football game against Nativity BVM, with the newest Hall of Fame members celebrated for their dedication and achievements throughout the years.
Steve Trautwein
A name synonymous with Mahanoy Area basketball, Steve Trautwein was recognized as the school's all-time leading scorer with 1,801 points. Trautwein's athletic prowess extended beyond the basketball court—he was also a star in track and field, holding the record for the 100-yard dash at 10.1 seconds. Though that record remains unbeaten, the shift to meters ensures its place in history. Trautwein earned an impressive 13 varsity letters across four sports: basketball, track, golf, and cross country.
In addition to his athletic achievements, Trautwein was also a stellar student, serving as class president for three years, president of the National Honor Society, and editor-in-chief of the yearbook. He graduated from Brown University in 1980 with degrees in Economics and Organizational Behavior & Management and later earned certification from the Wharton School of Business. Today, Trautwein is the Director of Military Lending for a prominent mortgage bank in Washington, DC.
Stephen John Debuski
Stephen John Debuski’s athletic career at Mahanoy Area was marked by leadership and accolades, especially on the football field where he served as captain in 1971. He earned numerous honors, including the Lions Club Most Valuable Lineman and unanimous All-Anthracite team selections. A talented track athlete as well, Debuski qualified for districts in the low and high hurdles.
Debuski went on to play football at Bloomsburg University, where he was a four-year player and team captain in 1975. Following graduation, Debuski transitioned into education, teaching biology at Mahanoy Area and serving as the football team’s defensive coordinator under legendary coach Bill Fazio. Later, he pursued a career in dentistry, graduating with honors from the University of Pittsburgh’s School of Dental Medicine. After 30 years in private practice, Debuski retired in 2017, and he was named Mahanoy Area’s Outstanding Alumnus of the Year in 2018.
Thomas J. Scheeler
Thomas J. Scheeler, celebrated for his tenure as Lady Bears basketball head coach, led the team to remarkable success, including a Schuylkill League Championship, four District XI titles, and three Eastern Final appearances. With a 132-34 record, Scheeler's influence on the program was immense. As an assistant boys' basketball coach for over 20 years, Scheeler helped shape countless young athletes, contributing to a 322-65 junior varsity record.
In addition to basketball, Scheeler was a football coach for 14 years, where he served as defensive coordinator and offensive line coach, leading the team to three Eastern Conference Championships. His dedication to Mahanoy Area athletics earned him induction into the Pennsylvania Sports Hall of Fame in 2021. Scheeler’s family, including his wife Susan and their three children, were present to celebrate his induction.
Bill “Buck” Jones
A legendary figure in Mahanoy City sports, Bill “Buck” Jones was recognized for his profound impact on local athletics. Jones’ coaching career began in 1955, when he led the Mahanoy Township Purple Larks football team to an undefeated season. His leadership continued as he coached multiple sports at Mahanoy Area, including track and field, football, and wrestling. Notably, he became Mahanoy Area’s first track and field coach and served as the head football coach, recording an impressive 24-9-1 mark in four seasons.
Beyond coaching, Jones left a lasting legacy as the Recreation Director of Mahanoy City, where he developed various youth programs. He was inducted into the Pennsylvania Sports Hall of Fame in 2002, and his commitment to the community earned him numerous other honors, including the naming of the William “Buck” Jones Award in his honor.
Accepting on his behalf was his grandson Ian Minalda and daughter Lisa Marencin.
Sam Quick
A 1983 graduate of Mahanoy Area, Sam Quick’s dedication to sports was evident during his high school career, where he earned nine varsity letters in football, wrestling, and track. Quick was a two-time Schuylkill League Wrestling Champion, and in 1983, he placed fourth at the PIAA State Wrestling Championships.
Quick’s commitment to Mahanoy Area has continued for over 30 years, where he has coached football and wrestling since 1990. He served as head football coach from 2003 to 2008 and remains a vital part of the school’s athletic community. Quick resides in Park Place with his wife Tracey and their three children.
