Steve Dionas 

Pierce County Bengals

Linebacker

1976 -1979

Former University of Montana standout, Dionas led the Bengals defense during their late 70's run of 3 undefeated seasons out of 5 and only 4 losses in total.

As a collegian, Steve was originally a fullback, but switched to linebacker in 1975.  He was later honored by his teammates following the 1975 season where he earned Big Sky Conference Defensive Player of the Week awards twice, with the Golden Helmet Award as the hardest hitter.  Dionas forced numerous turnovers over his career with his hits on ball carriers.

Signed by the Seattle Seahawks on Dec 10, 1976 after his tryout release with the New Orleans Saints.

In June 1978, the Ottawa Roughriders called up Steve for training camp after having had him for a 5-day tryout in November of 1977 forcing the 6'3" 230 pounder to miss the Bengals Holiday Bowl appearance against the San Jose Tigers.  San Jose nearly pulled the upset with Dionas gone, losing to the Bengals 28-27.

During his final season in 1979, Steve was a 2nd team All-NIFL selection with the Bengals after being a top pick for All-League the previous 3 seasons.