The 1972 Covington Buccaneers couldn’t maintain consistency throughout the season and the result was a modest 5-4-1 record. Much of this was due to new faces in new places as the Buccaneers had to replace eight seniors from a year ago and many younger players saw significant playing time.

The Buccs did have the services of 15 seniors on this years squad, but unfortunately it didn’t translate into more wins.

Covington opened the season with a 17-6 loss at the hands of Tipp City and then a frustrating 0-0 tie with rival Bradford.

Four straight wins followed as it appeared as if the Buccaneers had put everything together. The wins came against Northeastern, 22-18; Graham, 8-0; Northwestern, 28-7; and Greenon, 8-6.

Still in the hunt for the Mad River Valley League title, the Buccs were owners of a 4-1-1 record with Springfield Shawnee on the horizon. Covington didn’t have enough firepower to stay Shawnee and eventually fell by the score of 21-6.

The Buccs rebounded with a 29-0 shutout win over Tecumseh, but two straight losses against Miami East and Urbana ended the Buccs’ hopes of perhaps a share of the league title.

Receiving post season honors for the Buccs were: Ron Phillis, Roger Finfrock, and Doug Swartz, All Mad River Valley League selections; Lineman of the Year: Lester Stacy; Back of the Year: Ron Phillis; All Southwestern District Linebacker: Ron Phillis; Top Defensive Player: Grayson Houk; Coaches Trophy: Nick Steele.