Jim Guterba '62

Jim Guterba, Class of 1962, was a standout football player for the Poland Bulldogs, starring at guard, linebacker, and on special teams for the undefeated 1960 and 1961 Tri-County Championship teams. He earned First Team All-League honors at linebacker and served as co-captain of the 1961 team at just 16 years old. Jim began his varsity football career as a 13-year-old freshman in 1958, developing through the scout team before becoming a starting guard and special teams player in 1959. By 1960 and 1961, he was a key contributor on offense, defense, and special teams.

Following graduation, Jim received football scholarship offers from Wilmington College and the University of Delaware but instead chose to serve in the United States Marine Corps. He served with the 3rd Battalion, 7th Marines in Vietnam as a weapons platoon machine gunner and section leader. His military honors include the Combat Action Ribbon, Navy Presidential Citation, Navy Unit Commendation Ribbon, and the Republic of Vietnam Gallantry Cross with Palm Unit Citation.

After his military service, Jim earned a B.S. in Education from Youngstown State University and an M.S. in Education from Kent State University. He dedicated his career to education, serving as a teacher and coach at Poland Middle School and Poland Seminary High School before becoming a teacher, coach, counselor, and principal in the Boardman School System. He also taught as an instructor at Youngstown State University and Notre Dame College in Euclid, Ohio. Jim and his wife, Linda, reside in Canfield, while their children, Brian and Amy, live in Florida.