Six Football Legends to Join Easton-Phillipsburg Hall of Fame

The annual Easton-Phillipsburg football game will feature a special ceremony as six former players are inducted into the Easton-Phillipsburg Football Hall of Fame. This event is part of the 118th Easton-Phillipsburg game celebration, taking place on Thanksgiving morning, November 23, 2023, at 9 a.m. at Lafayette College’s Kirby Sports Center.

The Hall of Fame class consists of three inductees from each school, Phillipsburg and Easton, selected after thorough research from a pool of eligible candidates. Player eligibility requires a ten-year waiting period following high school graduation, and selections are based on significant achievements during their football careers.

Phillipsburg Inductees

Among the Phillipsburg inductees is Gene Pambianchi, who played from 1943 to 1945. Pambianchi was a formidable lineman, contributing to a record of 23-3-2 for the Stateliners. Notably, his defensive prowess helped the team achieve 14 shutouts in two seasons. His legacy extends beyond the field, as he dedicated 33 years to teaching in Phillipsburg and served as an assistant coach.

Another honoree is Mike Stocker, who competed from 1974 to 1976. Stocker started his career by throwing two touchdown passes in his Thanksgiving Day debut. By the end of his senior year, he set a single-season passing record with 993 yards and 12 touchdowns, graduating as the school’s all-time leader in passing touchdowns and yards.

Completing the Phillipsburg roster is Manni Romero, who was a standout from 2013 to 2015. Romero achieved remarkable success, scoring nine touchdowns in a state championship-winning season. In his senior year, he rushed for 933 yards and six touchdowns, while also excelling defensively with eight interceptions. Romero’s performance garnered him first-team all-state honors and a spot in the Blue-Grey All-American Bowl.

Easton Inductees

On the Easton side, Carl Florindi, a two-way starter from 1938 to 1939, played a pivotal role in the Rovers’ perfect 10-0 season in 1939. His contributions on both offense and defense helped the team secure a state ranking. Florindi was recognized as a second-team member of the Philadelphia Record All-Pennsylvania Scholastic Football team.

Also being honored is Justin Rouse, who was a key player in 1993 and 1994. Rouse’s exceptional blocking abilities were instrumental in leading his team to an 11-2-1 record and a District 11 title. His accolades include AP third-team all-state selections and multiple all-conference honors.

Lastly, Lee Holmes, a cornerback from 1994 to 1995, played a significant role in Easton’s success, helping the team achieve a 9-3 record in 1995. Holmes earned AP third-team all-state recognition and was named first-team all-EPC and first-team Express Times. His talents were further recognized with selections to the McDonald’s Lehigh Valley All-Star Classic and the Pennsylvania Big 33 team.

The Hall of Fame ceremony will offer personal plaques to the inductees, who will also be recognized on the field before the game. Their names will be displayed on prominent plaques at both Phillipsburg and Easton high schools. This event is supported by the Garnet Booster Club Foundation of Phillipsburg and the Alumni Varsity “E” Club of Easton, which underscores the strong community ties surrounding this celebrated annual football rivalry.