California University of Pennsylvania Athletics

Over forty years have passed since Frank Bernadowski last put on the Vulcan uniform and played football for California University of PA.

During the four years that he played, 1958 to 1961, Bernadowski intercepted more passes than anyone else has done. His 29 career interceptions still rank number one in both PSAC record books, and those interceptions have led him into being selected as a member of the Hall of Fame.

Bernadowski grew up in nearby Elizabeth and graduated from Elizabeth-Forward High School in 1958. He was a three-sport star while in high school, earning two letters in each football, basketball and baseball.

The McKeesport Daily News saw his athletic talents and named him a first-team all-star for football and second-team all-star for basketball. During Bernadowski’s senior year, the team awarded him as MVP, and he also received the Outstanding Football Award at Elizabeth –Forward. Bernadowski continued his multi-sport status when he began at California University of PA in the fall of 1958. He continued to play both football and basketball, excelling at each sport.

He was a four-year starter as a defensive back for Cal’s 1958 undefeated team. In fact, during his tenure at Cal, the football team only lost five games in four years. His 29 career interceptions include an incredible three pick-offs during a game against Clarion.

“It was great playing on the undefeated team. When I got to California, I was 17 years old and weighed 145 pounds. The guys on the team looked after me, though. The older guys took me under their wings and made sure that nothing happened to me,” Bernadowski said.

Graduating in 1962 with a degree in education didn’t stop his playing days. Bernadowski continued to play as a member of the Wheeling Ironmen, a team in the United Football League. He played there for a year before moving on to the Pittsburgh Ironmen, an Atlantic Coast Football League team, in 1963.

During his first season with the Pittsburgh Ironmen, Bernadowski led the ACFL with ten interceptions. The following season, in 1964, he tied for the league lead with nine interceptions. Those nine pick-offs earned him a place on the ACFL all-star team.

Bernadowski continued to play for the Ironmen until 1965.

After professional football, Bernadowski became a teacher. His first job was in Lorian, Ohio, where he stayed for two years. While there, he coached boys and girls basketball and won the junior high championship. Bernadowski moved on to Beth-Center where he coached the boys to two WPIAL playoff appearances. He taught at Beth-Center for 25 years.

While teaching at Beth-Center, Bernadowski coached the California girls’ basketball team to two WPIAL playoff appearances.

After retiring, he coached the Brownsville girls’ basketball team. They went 12-0 in the section and advanced to two PIAA state playoffs during his years. Bernadowski was elected Coach of the Year by the Section 3 coaches in both 1994-1995 and 1995-1996 for his great seasons.

Now, Bernadowski is being inducted into the Hall of Fame as a member of the fourth class.

“I was elated when I found out that I was being inducted into the Hall of Fame. To be mentioned with the other people who have been inducted in this year’s class is quite an honor,” Bernadowski said.