Clarion Athletics

1980 Clarion University Grad - Business Management

Dan Chojnacki was an outstanding basketball player from 1977-80 at Clarion University playing the center and strong forward positions for the Golden Eagles while leading the team to an amazing 90-29 overall record (75.6% winning percentage). A 4-year letterwinner, Dan helped Clarion to the NAIA National Tournament in 1977 and 1980, NAIA District 18 titles in 1977 and 1980 and PSAC West crowns in 1977, 79 and 80. In 1977 Clarion set a school record with a 27-3 mark and tied the school record with 19 consecutive wins. In 1978 the Eagles were 18-11 overall and Dan averaged 13 points per game and 10 rebounds. The 1979 team was 22-6 overall and Chojnacki contributed 13 points oer game and 10 rebounds and was named as an all PSAC West performer. In 1980 Clarion was 23-9 and Dan added 16.2ppg and 12 rebounds while being honored by the District 18 and PSAC West teams, plus the ECAC. The 1980 Golden Eagles won their first two games at the NAIA Tournament over Grand Canyon (83-75) and Loras, Iowa (79-71), before being eliminated. His 320 rebounds in 1980 were fourth best in a single season at Clarion. Playing for Clarion’s Hall of Fame coach Joe DeGregorio, Chojnacki totaled 1,196 career points and 968 rebounds. He ranked #8 in career scoring and #3 in rebounding in 1980, and today ranks 16th in scoring and remains third in rebounding. A 1976 graduate of McDowell High in Erie, Dan is currently the athletic director at East High in Erie. Dan and wife Michelle have daughters Amanda and Ali and a son Joshua.