A collection of original stories and narratives about the history Monroe football. Some of the topics include articles on rivalries, player profiles, detailed analysis of seasons, and everything in between. Check in regularly to see new articles posted throughout the year.

“What Could Have been”: The Story of the 1963 Monroe Bearcats

*Group photo of Monroe Bearcat lettermen, 1963*

In 1963, the Monroe Bearcats rose to the rank of #3 in the state polls. Their mission to capture a state title was powered by their young, confident head coach and a core of veteran players who took the program to unseen heights.

The 109-Year History of Monroe Bearcat Uniforms

*Henry A. Dennis in 1920 side-by-side with Brett Silvey in 2018*

Since 1911, the attire of the Monroe Bearcats has undergone consistent changes as photographs detail each alteration in every era of Bearcat football. In analyzing pictures, changes in style reflect a shifting of aesthetic taste as well as a growing emphasis on player safety. This article details the constant changes to the uniforms and equipment of Monroe football players.

“Monroe’s Got Four Horsemen”: J.J. Jerome

J.J. Jerome rushes past the Jackson defense, 2016
Photograph courtesy of Anna Wegenast Photography

In the final entry on our four part series on the best running backs in Monroe history, we skip ahead forty years to the modern era of Bearcat football. During Monroe’s resurgance during the 2010’s, J.J. Jerome helped propel the team back to the top of the conference standings.

“Monroe’s Got Four Horsemen”: Eldon King and Keith McDaniel

*Eldon King gives Keith McDaniel a key block during a game against Arlington, 1974*

The third entry on the list of Monroe’s greatest running backs includes the stories of two star running backs from the 1970’s. During the decline of Bearcat football, Eldon King and Keith McDaniel powered a Monroe resurgence.

“Monroe’s Got Four Horsemen”: Norm Janke

*The famous “Four Horsemen” of the 1957 squad.*

The second entry in the four part series of the greatest running backs in Monroe football history. This article details the story of Norm Janke, a star running back and state-scoring leader in 1957 during the golden age of Bearcat football.

“Monroe’s Got Four Horsemen”: Lee Orr

*The 1934 Bearcats lined up in formation*, *with Lee Orr in the backfield*

The first in a four part series on the greatest running backs in Monroe football history. This article covers the life of Lee Orr, a future All-American and Olympian in track.

“Drain the Lake!”: A History of the Lake Stevens-Monroe Rivalry

“Monroe lines up on the goal line against the Lake Stevens defense, 2017”
Courtesy of Striped Hat Photography

A narrative covering the rivalry between the Lake Stevens Vikings and the Monroe Bearcats. Complete with photos, quotes from players, and a complete record of every meeting between the schools.