California University of Pennsylvania Athletics

Robert “Rob” Dindak was a mainstay on the Vulcan defensive line from 1978-81. An outstanding athlete at Steel Valley High School prior to his enrollment at Cal, Dindak excelled at football, track and wrestling.

At Cal, Dindak concentrated his efforts on football and developed into an outstanding defensive end even though his size may have dictated he would be better suited at another position. He became a dominating force and would be selected as an All-Conference player before his career at Cal ended. He was a member of the 1981 team that was part of the “streak” and had 47 tackles in ‘81, 21 of which were solo. A four-year winner, Rob was a starter for his final three seasons.

According to Jeff Petrucci, Dindak’s head coach his final season at Cal, “Robbie was a true defensive player. A quality guy that always went to the ball.” Petrucci continued, “He was a leader both vocally and by his aggressive demeanor on the field and he was the standard I used to grade defensive players.”

Following his play at Cal, Dindak had the opportunity to play professionally. He was invited to the Baltimore Colts training camp but did not make the team. The following year, he had a tryout with the Philadelphia Eagles. Rob went to training camp at West Chester and was working with the linebackers and special teams players.

In August of 1984, Dindak realized a dream when he found himself playing at Three Rivers Stadium in a pre-season game. Near the end of training camp, he pulled a hamstring that all but ended his dreams of a professional career in football.

Rob returned to Steel Valley in 1987 and he coached football through 1990. His team appeared in two W.P.I.A.L. championships and one state playoff game.