IRVING, Texas – Former Eastern Illinois defensive standout Pete Catan is one of twenty-four former NCAA Division II players listed on this year's ballot for induction into the College Football Hall of Fame.

Catan was an anchor on the Panthers defensive line from 1976-80 helping the Panthers win the 1978 NCAA Division II National Championship and finish as National Runner-up in 1980. He was a first team All-American selection in 1979 and 1980. He finished his career as the Panthers leader in career sacks (47) and career tackles for loss (45). He also holds the single season sack record with 21 in 1979 and the single game record with six sacks against Southern Illinois in 1979.

Following his EIU career Catan played three seasons with the Winnipeg Blue Bombers of the Canadian Football League earning All-CFL honors in 1982. He then had a two-year career with the Houston Gamblers in the USFL. He was a first team All-USFL selection in 1984 leading the Gamblers to a conference championship and playoff appearance. He finished second in the league with 17 ½ sacks.

Catan was inducted into the EIU Hall of Fame in 1991. EIU's only current College Football Hall of Fame inductee is former coach Darrell “Dr. Victory” Mudra who was the Panthers head coach during Catan's playing days. 

Complete College Hall of Fame Ballot