CATAWISSA RR - Henry Hynoski, former Southern Columbia High School football great and current New York Giants starting fullback returned to Tiger Stadium last night to have his number 27 jersey retired by the school's football program prior to the Tigers' home game against Loyalsock.
Hynoski, who was accompanied by his parents Henry and Kathy Hynoski, took the field flanked by the current football team and coaches on one side and the cheerleaders on the other. On the way, he shook hands and gave hugs to coaches and old friends. The announcer listed all of Hynoski's accomplishments in both high school and college, and when the framed black and gold jersey was unveiled, he received a standing ovation from the home crowd. The
program ended with the cheerleaders doing a "Henry" cheer.
Hynoski, who graduated from the University of Pittsburgh but did forego one year of college eligibility to turn pro, was not selected during the draft in April. But, when the NFL returned from a three-month lockout, he was a hot prospect and quickly signed a contract with the Giants.
Hynoski helped Southern win four straight PIAA Class A state championships from 2003 to 2006 and was named the Associated Press Class A Player of the Year as a senior.
Hynoski is the second Southern football player to have his jersey retired in school history. The first was Jerry Marks, who played in the late 1980s and broke the state career rushing record at the time.
Today, Hynoski will be at the Wayside Inn, Weigh Scales, to sign autographs from 2 to 3 p.m. "Hyno" merchandise, including jerseys, T-shirts, hats and sweatshirts, will be sold all day at the bar-restaurant, which will also feature its special Giant Hyno Burger.
