Jerry ‘Buddy’ Cato: Silver Streaks football legend

In this WGIL Sports podcast, former Galesburg High School football star Jerry "Buddy" Cato revisits his standout career as a fullback on the 1991 Silver Streaks, a Western Big 6 Conference champion with an 8-2 record. Cato shares how his father’s legacy and Coach Chris Stiles’ mentorship shaped his physical, unselfish style, rushing for 1,035 yards in his senior year, and how his chemistry with quarterback Sean Kane drove the team’s success. He recalls key games, like the humbling loss to Peoria Richwoods and the playoff clash with Joliet Catholic’s Mike Alstott, and reflects on the 1991 team’s resilience. Cato also discusses the evolution of football, challenges for today’s youth, and his pride in Galesburg, ranking his team as one of the Streaks' best ever.

Jerry "Buddy" Cato, GHS Class of 1992 and star fullback on the 1991 Silver Streaks hall of fame and state playoff football team.
Jerry "Buddy" Cato, GHS Class of 1992 and star fullback on the 1991 Silver Streaks hall of fame and state playoff football team. (WGIL)

The 1991 Silver Streaks football team. Jerry Cato is No. 45 in the front row.
The 1991 Silver Streaks football team. Jerry Cato is No. 45 in the front row. (GHS REFLECTOR)

2025 Halftime Interviews:

Week 1: From Silver Streak to surgeon: Beau Shay’s hall of fame journey

Week 2: Galesburg’s 1956 Undefeated Silver Streaks: Tom Milan’s Story

Week 3: Jerry 'Buddy' Cato: Silver Streaks football legend

 

In this WGIL Sports podcast, former Galesburg High School football star Jerry “Buddy” Cato revisits his standout career as a fullback on the 1991

 

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