Butte College Football: A Legacy of Excellence

Butte College boasts a storied football program marked by exceptional athletes and dedicated coaches. Over its history, the program has produced remarkable talent, some of whom have achieved legendary status in the sport. The Roadrunners' legacy is built on a foundation of hard work, determination, and a commitment to excellence.

A Foundation for Success: Early Years and Development

Butte College's journey began with the selection of a permanent campus site at Pentz and Clark roads, strategically located between Chico, Oroville, and Paradise. The college officially opened its doors on September 23, 1968, initially operating from a temporary campus at the former Durham High School. As the college grew, plans were approved in 1969 for a permanent campus, designed to accommodate an anticipated enrollment of up to 5,000 students. The Durham campus was subsequently closed, and its portable buildings were relocated to the permanent site.

Building a Program: Key Figures and Moments

The establishment of a women's athletic program marked a significant step in the college's development, with the addition of field hockey, volleyball, basketball, and softball, followed by track & field, golf, and soccer. In September 1980, the John B. Cowan Sports Complex was dedicated to founding Trustee John Cowan in recognition of his unwavering support for the college's athletic programs. These early investments in facilities and programs laid the groundwork for the football program's future success.

Defining Greatness: The All-Time Roadrunner Team

The debate over the greatest players in Butte College football history is a constant source of discussion among coaches, media members, and fans alike. The question of what the best composite Butte team would look like is a fascinating one, sparking passionate debate and highlighting the wealth of talent that has passed through the program.

Offensive Line Dominance

The offensive line is arguably the strongest position group in Butte College football history, anchored by the legendary Larry Allen (1989-90). Allen, who played right tackle for the Roadrunners, went on to a stellar NFL career with the Dallas Cowboys, blocking for Hall of Famers Emmitt Smith and Troy Aikman. He is widely considered the greatest Roadrunner of all time and a lock for the all-time team.

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Joining Allen on the all-time offensive line are Danny Watkins (2008), a standout from the title-winning team; Nathan Parks, who enjoyed a 10-year NFL career after moving on to Stanford; Chad Folk, a No. 1 pick in the CFL draft who won two Grey Cups in a 15-year career; and Ed Pelfrey (1989-90), a dominant guard who once beat out Allen for the Golden Valley Conference's offensive player of the year award.

Special Teams Standouts

Mike Merrill (1989-90) earns the nod as the all-time kicker, while Mike Alexander (2000-01) is recognized as the all-time punter.

Notable Alumni: On and Off the Field

Butte College is proud of its alumni, who have achieved success in various fields. The college recognizes outstanding alumni each year for their personal and professional accomplishments.

Athletics

Larry Allen: A Hall of Fame NFL offensive lineman, Allen is the most decorated football player to come out of Butte College.
Nate Parks: A standout athlete who led the Roadrunners to several championships and two bowl game wins, Parks went on to play 10 years in the NFL after transferring to Stanford.

Public Service

Jerry Smith: A 36-year veteran of the Butte County Sheriff's Office, Smith has dedicated his career to serving his community.
Glenn County Sheriff Larry Jones: Jones, who majored in Physical Education at Butte College, has served as Glenn County Sheriff, demonstrating a commitment to public safety.
John McAmis: Graduated from Oroville High School in 1964. After enlisting in the California Army National Guard, he transferred to the United States Navy Seabee's for two tours of duty in Vietnam.

Business and Entrepreneurship

Alex DuBose: The owner of Rental Guys in Chico, DuBose attended Butte College, taking business and agriculture classes.
Mary Mooney: A Butte College alumna and entrepreneur, Mooney earned her bachelor's degree from Chico State.

Agriculture

Berton Bertagna: Bertagna comes from a family with a long history in agriculture, dating back four generations.
Arnoldo Avalos: The youngest of seven children who worked as migrant farm workers across the Northwest while growing up.

Arts and Media

Kelly Candaele: An accomplished writer and filmmaker, Candaele has written for major publications and National Public Radio.
Teri Dougherty: An alumna of the Butte College Cosmetology Program, Dougherty has designed hair for international fashion runways, television, and film.

Engineering

Steve Gonsalves: Gonsalves joined Nichols, Melburg & Rossetto as Manager and Director of the Structural Engineering Division.

Honoring the Past, Inspiring the Future

Butte College's commitment to excellence extends beyond the football field. The college has named several facilities after individuals who have made significant contributions to the institution:

The Everett Brott Student Center (Campus Center): Dedicated to former Trustee Everett Brott in September 1989.
The Frederick S. Montgomery Library: Named for founding Trustee Fred Montgomery in November 1983.

Recent Developments and Future Outlook

Butte College continues to evolve and adapt to meet the needs of its students and the community. Recent developments include:

The opening of the Skyway Center at 2480 Notre Dame Blvd.
A historic agreement with China to allow Chinese students to attend Butte College.
Plans for a new Allied Health and Public Services Building, funded by the 1998 state Proposition 1A.

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