Tony Pallija (1985) - Hall of Fame - University of Akron Athletics

Tony Pallija

Induction:
1985
Class:
1970

1967-69
Football
Punt Returner/Defensive Back
‘70
Tony, better known in UA sports circles as “Sonny” was a walk-on to the Zip football team in 1967. At the end of his playing days, Pallija had walked away with three varsity letters (1967-69). In his first year, Pallija earned a starting position at defensive back and was leading punt returner on the team. After picking off six interceptions, he was named the Zips’ 1967 Most Outstanding Freshman. In 1968, he was an honorable mention All-American selection on UA’s Grantland Rice Bowl team which finished with a 7-2-1 regular season record. Pallija led the team in interceptions for the second consecutive year and led backs in the tackles with 43 solo and 11 assists. The following year, Pallija’s last at the University of Akron, saw gridders compile their best record of all time (9-1) and “Sonny” earn third-team All-American honors. This athlete, who was known for having a great sense for finding the ball, ended his career with 13 pass interceptions and 10.8 yard punt return average. After graduation in 1970, Pallija signed a professional football contract with the Buffalo Bills. Unable to take up that offer due to a two-year stint in the United States Army, Pallija then returned to the areas as a coach of football, wrestling and track at Barberton High School. Pallija served as the assistant principal at Wadsworth High School. He and his two sons, Brian and Jeff reside in Wadsworth.