John Parrella – Grand Island Central Catholic

Class of 1988
Athlete
John Parrella played in three Super Bowls–the Buffalo Bills in 1994, the San Diego Chargers in 1995 and the Oakland Raiders in 2003–during a 13-year professional career at defensive tackle. His football days started at Grand Island Central Catholic High School where he excelled in football and was named a high-school All-American. He earned all-state honors twice and led the 1986 playoff team in tackles and receiving yards. A walk-on for the Nebraska Cornhuskers, Parrella lettered for three years, earning All-Big Eight honors in 1991 and 1992 and second-team All-American honors as a senior. He was a second-round draft pick in 1993 by the Buffalo Bills.