Where Are They Now Series - Steven Dish '85, Football
Steven Dish '85 continues our "Alumni Where are They Now" series. Steven was a member of the Bison Football team during his four years at Bethany. Today, he is an Allegheny County Police Department Detective.
We caught up with Steven to talk about his experience as a student-athlete at Bethany and the path he took to be where he is today!
What is your current job title and what does the position entail?
I work for Allegheny County Police Dept. I am a Child Abuse / Sex Assault Detective currently assigned to an FBI Child Exploitation/ Human Trafficking Task Force - I receive all National Center for Missing and Exploited Children Cybertips for child pornography. I investigate through search warrants to identify and arrest child pornographers and pedophiles. I'm on a child abduction response team and I'm a Negotiator on the SWAT team. I also investigate cases of physical and sexual child abuse.
If you can recall, why did you choose to attend Bethany?
To play football and to attend a small college.
How did your athletic involvement aid in the path that you chose following graduation?
I kind of just fell into my profession after coaching college football for 3 years. But football taught me how to work hard, overcome obstacles, work with a team concept, and to never give up.
What would you say were your greatest athletic and academic accomplishments during your time at Bethany?
I started on a defense that was 1st in the PAC for 4 years and during my senior year was ranked 9th in the nation in total defense and 13th in the nation in pass defense. I had several interceptions for touchdowns and had numerous quarterback sacks. Academically I was able to obtain a Computer Science Degree and the experience of Comprehensive Exams was invaluable to obtaining employment.
What is your most fond memory of Bethany athletics?
Playing with such a competitive and successful group of teammates on a defense that was nationally ranked.
What piece of advice would you have for current Bethany student-athletes?
Never give up. Always strive to do your best and always be there for your teammates.
What was your favorite non-athletics activity at Bethany?
Intermural athletics, hanging out with classmates and enjoying the social environment. Hiking in the woods.
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