Class of 2003

Stuart "Skeet" Allen was born in Corning, NY and graduated from Corning-Painted Post West High School in 1964. Following high school, Stuart attended Ithaca College where he graduated in 1968 with a Bachelor of Science degree in Physical Education. He began teaching and coaching at Cato-Meridian High School in September 1968 and retired from that same school in 2000.

During his first year, Stuart took over a wrestling program that had previously been a club team, and was 1-9 the first season. The school's first league title was won as part of the Cayuga County League in 1972. Ten more league titles followed in the Onondaga High School League.

His teams won 32 consecutive matches from 1980-82 and held the longest active win streak at the time. "Skeet" coached his teams to five undefeated seasons during his 32 years and retired with an overall record of 327-119-6. He served as league representative and was on the Section III Wrestling Committee for twelve years.

Coach Allen was the driving force behind changing the matches from afternoon to evening events in the early 1970's, and also was responsible for implementing junior high programs for the smaller schools in the league. He also started one of the first peewee programs in the area.

His wrestling teams were noted for displaying good sportsmanship. Cato-Meridian was one of the first recipients of the John Arcaro Sportsmanship Award in 1992, which is presented by the Syracuse Wrestling Officials Association.

Stuart also coached football (1969-1976), baseball (1992-2000), and served as Athletic Director (1973-1982).

"Skeet" has been married to Susan for 34 years and they have two children.