Hall of Fame
- Induction:
- 1984
Born November 23, 1930 in Canton, OH…Graduated from Canton McKinley High School in 1951…Despite being small in stature, Mariano was big on heart and was one of the best running backs in KSU history…Played four years as a Flash, 1951-54…Set Kent State records for rushing yardage in a single game (226) on only ten carries against Western Reserve…Also set KSU marks with a 99-yard scrimmage and 86 points in a season (14 TD’s and two extra points)…Named Honorable Mention Little All-American in both his junior and senior seasons…Was named by UPI, AP, and INS on several All-America teams…Earned second team All-MAC honors in 1953…Also participated in track and swimming – was an above average diver…Has three children, Michelle, Sean, and Kristen.
