The future College and Pro Football Hall of Famer was born and raised there. His grandparents were all Russian immigrants. Fred attended Technical Memorial High School in Erie, where he was outstanding in football, basketball, baseball and track. After graduation in 1961, he went on to an outstanding college career in football, starring as a wide receiver for Florida State. Biletnikoff led the nation in receiving yards and touchdowns as a senior.
Fred's fame only grew from there. He was a second-round draft choice of the Oakland Raiders. Biletnikoff wasn't the fastest receiver out there, but he ran precise routes and had great hands. Al Davis found others to fill the speed receiver role on the offense. Fred eventually caught at least 40 passes a year for 10 straight years in the NFL.
He also was known for his use of Stickem, which was designed to help hang on to footballs. Fred bought it by the pound and applied it all over his uniform. The substance was banned by the NFL in 1981, which if nothing else reduced cleaning bills for teams.
The high school field was named after Biletnikoff after he retired from playing. Then the complex received a good-sized upgrade in order to improve the facilities in 2024. Fred helped raise money for the project.
He is in Erie's Hall of Fame, and has received the key to the city. Local boy does well.
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