Hayes served as an assistant football coach at many schools, and he dedicated more than 25 years of his career to Juniata College.

“He was one of our coaches and one of the members of our family here,’ said President James A. Troha at the memorial’s dedication. “As you think about it, being at an intersection here, it is reflective of what he meant in our community.’

The memorial came about through the hard work and dedication of Steve’s friend, Vince Inzerillo of Lewistown, who coached with Steve at Juniata. Vince’s desire was to make a tribute to his dear friend at a place that they both loved so much.

“He lived for football and loved it,’ Vince says. “He made his players better people as well as better players. That’s the goal. You want to win football games, you want to play well, but you are teaching them about life and making them better people. He certainly did that. That was his coaching philosophy. Now, his former players are pillars of their communities. Winning is important but making them better people is more important.’

Inzerillo worked with local artisan Tim Klock to design a chainsaw carving of the eagle, which sits atop a pillar, surrounded by a small garden and seating area overlooking the stadium.

Hayes’s wife, Debra; son, Jeff; daughter-in-law, Chrissy; and granddaughter, Emma, took part in the dedication ceremony and were presented with a special Eagles helmet with an “SH’ insignia on the back.

The spot is one Troha anticipates will be photographed and visited often by generations of students to come.

“He lived for football and loved it.” Vince Inzerillo, Lewistown, PA

“I think it’s spectacular,’ Troha says. “You can see it from a lot of different angles from our campus. It’s a great testament to Steve. I appreciate Vince’s vision and generosity in making this happen.’