An all-around athlete at Frederick High School, lettering in three sports, Howard Hoy in 1965 was voted most valuable defensive back, named to the top 10 all-time Frederick High School basketball players, and led the track team as a 21-ft. long jumper and 6-ft. high jumper. He still found time to play Babe Ruth baseball, making the all-star team and batting .465. Hoy played with the Frederick Falcons and was named an all-league defensive back four times and the team’s MVP twice. A volunteer coach with the Sertoma Basketball League and an active member serving the American Legion Baseball Committee, he was a remarkably gifted athlete.

Earl L. Main achieved the most remarkable individual athletic performance in Frederick County history, a once-in-a-lifetime accomplishment, by running 3,142 miles across the United States. He left San Francisco on Memorial Day in 1999, arrived in Ocean City, Maryland, on Labor Day by averaging over 30 miles a day for 99 consecutive days. He began his running career in the 1960s as a 400/800 meter competitor with two Frederick High School consecutive state championship teams. Main later ran 12 J.F.K. 50-mile runs. He served with the U.S. Marines in Vietnam. Main was known locally for his unselfish volunteerism in support of area youth programs.

David M. Schrodel began playing football at Frederick High School, earning CVAL honors. He was named captain of the Frostburg State College football team in 1966. He started coaching at Governor Thomas Johnson High School in 1969. His undefeated team in 1971 was ranked no. 1 in the state. In 1987 Schrodel coached Walkersville High School to a state championship and had two undefeated seasons in 1988 and 1992. During the spring of 1986, he led the Catoctin High School girls’ softball team to a state championship. He coached the Walkersville High School girls’ softball team to two state titles in 1996 and 1999. During his 35 years, he won numerous league, county, and regional championships in both sports. He was a charismatic, multi-talented coach.

A quarterback who never lost a game he started at Governor Thomas Johnson High School, Thomas H. Schultze led the Patriots to a 10–0 season in 1970 and career 19–0 record. He earned a scholarship to Virginia Military Institute and led the freshman team to an undefeated season. As a varsity starter, he ranked seventh in the U.S., setting VMI records: passing yards, 2,998; completions, 236; offensive plays, 638; total offense, 2,602 yards. These numbers were achieved against Tulane, Georgia Tech, Maryland, West Virginia, and others. His expertise has become the standard by which area players are measured. Schultze was a step ahead of the rest.

Dave Carruthers, a 1969 Penn State graduate, began his Maryland football coaching career in 1974 as a defensive coordinator with Seneca Valley High School. The school won two state championships. In 1980 Carruthers became the head coach at Linganore High School, compiling a 122–49 record and two state titles. In 1995 Urbana High School opened and Coach Carruthers again developed a championship program. His 1998, 1999, and 2000 teams were undefeated and won state championships. Urbana High School also won 38 consecutive games, establishing a state record. Carruthers sponsored the Fellowship of Christian Athletes for more than 20 years. His coaching record was unparalleled in county history.

Through a diet of hard work, keen competition, and a no-nonsense training regimen, Donald Feinberg lifted Frederick County swimming to a national and world class level. His Frederick High School girls set a national record of 136 consecutive dual meet wins in a 14-year period. The boys were undefeated for six years and the combined team won 23 county titles; three Monocacy Aquatic Club members achieved world rank status, while others qualified for the Olympic trials and NCAA Nationals. Twenty of his nationally ranked age groupers won college scholarships. Feinberg now serves as the aquatic director for Hood College. He is a highly motivated and technically oriented coach.

A well-known citizen in Frederick as postmaster and Red Cross Blood chairman, James A. Grove saw the need to organize sandlot baseball into sanctioned Little League play. In 1950, he became the driving force, gaining civic club and public support, and the Frederick Little League was born. Thousands of city youth have benefitted from Jim Grove’s vision. He was the father of Little League baseball in Frederick.

Tamara L. Joy was the pride of Catoctin High School’s basketball program, 1983–1986. She led the county in scoring with a 30-point average, made First Team All-County, Player of the Year, and All- Area selections. Joy established a career high point total for both county boys and girls while scoring a record 49 points in a state championship game. She graduated an All-American and was immediately recruited by national power Long Beach State University of California. Joy played in two NCAA Final Four Championships. Her outstanding career serves as an inspiration for all. She was Frederick County’s greatest player.

An outstanding athlete at Walkersville High School, lettering in soccer, basketball, track and baseball, Ronald O. Linton played center in 1960 for the first county team to win a state basketball championship. He was an all-county first-team pick, leading the Lions in scoring and rebounding. During the 1970s, Linton officiated basketball at state championship and college games in the Philadelphia Spectrum. He was also chairman during his 15-year career. Linton found time to serve as president of the Woodsboro Athletic Association, coaching Little League baseball for 10 years. He won many championships and was considered an unselfish, dedicated community leader.

Nield Gordon, a Brunswick native, had an incredible basketball career, both as a player and as a coach. Gordon led the 1947 Brunswick High School team to a first-ever appearance in the Maryland state championships, led the nation in scoring at Wingate Junior College, was All-Southern Conference for two years at Furman University, and was drafted by the NBA’s New York Knicks in 1953. As a collegiate coach, he was named NAIA National Coach of the Year in 1977 while at Newberry College and returned to Wingate to close out a 509-win career.

The multi-faceted presence of Helen Schley has been felt in Frederick County athletics for more than 50 years. A physical education teacher and coach in Brunswick and Middletown for 31 years, her 1973 MHS girls’ basketball team was a first from Western Maryland to reach the state tournament. She also officiated, was president of the Frederick Women’s Officials board, and helped to found the Frederick County Senior Recreation Council. Schley later gained national prominence in Senior Olympics and USATF Masters track and field. She had a lifetime of commitment to sports and recreation.

As a player, coach, and administrator, Tom Sherald is among Frederick’s baseball elite. He played on championship youth teams in Frederick and in the 1972 NAIA World Series while at Frostburg State College. Sherald coached at Thomas Johnson High School, Catoctin High School, and at Mount St. Mary’s College, where he set a record for career victories (111); he was named Northeast Conference Coach of the Year in 1991. A 2000 inductee into the MSABC Hall of Fame, Sherald was instrumental in bringing baseball play-offs to Maryland high schools. He owns and directs the Cal Ripken Baseball school. From player to administrator, Tom Sherald has been a baseball legend.

A wrestling pioneer, Yank Strube founded the Frederick Mat Club in 1979 at the age of 19. Hundreds have participated since and every county high school program has benefited from the program. A Tri-State and CVAL champion wrestler at Frederick High School, Strube returned to coach at Frederick High School and led the Cadets to a Maryland state class 4A-3A duals championship, the first ever for a county school. He produced five state high school individual champions, 16 state finalists with the FMC, and one national prep champion. He has been the driving force behind county wrestling.

Quite possibly the best offensive lineman ever to play football in Frederick County, Francis “Butch” Foreman was a pre-season Division 1 college All-American while at the University of Cincinnati. A First-Team Tri-State and CVAL League selection in both his junior and senior years at Frederick High School, he later returned to coach football at his alma mater. Foreman was also a school and Maryland state record holder in the shot put and discus. He has been described as an offensive tackle like no other.

From participant to promoter, Henry Groff, Jr.’s involvement in Frederick County sports was as varied as his talents. Groff played baseball at the University of Maryland; later, he played baseball with several local teams, including the Frederick Hustlers; and finally, he played football with the VFW team. Groff later coached both sports at Frederick High School, leading the Cadets to the first three Western Shore League baseball championships. He was one of the founders of the Frederick County Little League and an expert marksman, selected in1959 to the U.S. Army Rifle team that participated in regional and national matches.

Henry Groff passed away April 21, 2017. Read more about his amazing life below.

Henry Allen Groff Jr., 90, went to judgment on April 21, 2017 richly blessed with a life of fellowship among church, family, education colleagues, students, friends, and military colleagues in many countries. Henry was born on August 27, 1926 in Frederick, Maryland the son of Henry Allen Groff, Sr. and Mary Emma (Kunkel) Groff.

Mr. Groff is survived by his wife, Mary Elizabeth (Esworthy) Groff and three gracious daughters; Meda Elizabeth Groff (Dr. James Corkum), Kelly Roxann Groff (Shawn McMahon), and Melinda Sue Groff (John Mainville). There are seven wonderful grandchildren; Tyler James Corkum, Abigail Elizabeth Corkum, John Spencer Corkum, Matthew Patrick White, Stephen Michael White, Brooks Henry Warrenfeltz and Brianna Mary Warrenfeltz. He’s also survived by one niece Julie Ann D’Antonio and one nephew John Allen Groff. He is predeceased by 2 brothers; John Robert Groff and Joseph Murray Groff.

Henry grew up on a small homestead that dates back generations. As a young boy he climbed and fell out of trees, fished in streams, and played tricks on his brothers. He shared many stories such as walking miles with his brothers during the winter months to a one room school house. His mother would place hot potatoes in their hands for warmth and a welcomed snack once they reached their destination. He later settled on the land he grew up on and built a home to raise his family. Henry graduated from Frederick High School, class of 1943, at the age of 16 and began studies at University of Maryland where he played baseball. At age 17, he enlisted in the United States Navy because he wanted to see the world. He served aboard PT boats and LST landing craft in both the Atlantic and Pacific Theaters of Operation during World War ll. He traveled to California, Hawaii, Southeast Asia and later England and Europe. After the war he returned to the University of Maryland to earn his B.S. degree and began teaching math and science at Frederick High School. He coached varsity baseball during those years. He earned a Masters of Arts in Education from Western Maryland College (McDaniels College), a Masters of Psychology at Towson State College (Towson University) and Doctoral degree in Developmental Disabilities from California University. He taught graduate studies at Hood College, Loyola College, and under graduate studies at Mt. St. Mary’s College.

Dr. Groff had a long and distinguished 35 year career with the Frederick County Board of Education. He served many roles during his tenure. While a math and science teacher at Frederick High School he met his lovely wife Mary Elizabeth (Libby). He became vice principal of Linganore High School then branched into guidance counseling. Completing his studies in school psychology, Henry became a school psychologist. He established the first school psychologist position at the elementary school level for Frederick County. He retired as supervisor of school psychological services in 1986. He missed working with children and families after retirement and signed on as a contract employee for psychological services for several more years. Of particular note was his care and compassion for families of children with developmental disabilities often making home visits to educate and advocate.

A patriot at heart, Henry enlisted in the Army Reserve Forces following his time in the Navy. He was directly commissioned to 2nd LT. He commanded the 559th Signal Company in Frederick on active duty and reserve status. Upon promotion to Colonel he commanded the 354th Brigade and 300th group. Reservist assignments included the Joint Task Force Operations with Headquarters 18th Airborne Command & General Staff College and Air War College. The military lead him to advanced studies at the Department of State Foreign Service Institute, Georgetown University School of Foreign Affairs, the Johns Hopkins School of Advanced International Studies and Fort McNair School of Material. He taught Tactics and Doctrine Warfare at the Command and General Staff College. Henry was an accomplished marksman earning many honors and awards. He was the United States Military Academy area representative for the 6th Congressional District for many years.

Henry let his life speak through his faith. A longstanding member and pillar of Mt. Carmel United Methodist church he was actively involved as lay leader, youth leader, Sunday school teacher, and leader of special projects. Many parishioners received hand written letters with uplifting messages and words of comfort. He enjoyed singing in the choir. He embraced and mentored many young people as they made mistakes in their growth and development. He organized Mt. Carmel’s Little League baseball program.

His community work spans decades. An active member of the YMCA of Frederick, he served on the board of directors and assisted Frederick’s recreation programs for youth. He was director of operations for three National Babe Ruth World Series in 1983, 1984, and 1985 at Hustler Park. He was a supporter of Frederick football and baseball teams. He actively supported the Special Olympics, Teenage Hotline, and various mentoring programs. Well liked by many, he once ran for the Maryland House of Delegates. Henry was inducted into the Alvin G. Quinn YMCA Hall of Fame in 2003 for his baseball and football career, coaching (3 county baseball titles), and organizing numerous youth programs. He was a member of the Elks club and Amvets of Frederick.

Henry had a passion for the outdoors. He camped with his family in every contiguous state in our great nation visiting national parks and various historical landmarks. He loved meeting new people along the way and documenting his travels. Henry spent hours growing and maintaining his large vegetable garden. He later built with his own hands a hunting cabin in western Maryland which became his retreat for reading and writing. Hunting, fishing, and quiet walks in God’s wonderland of nature sustained him.

We will miss his booming voice, sense of humor and bear hugs. Henry felt blessed without regret. His life defined the “Greatest Generation.” Living through the deprivation of the depression then serving his country in World War ll and beyond, he learned early that self-reliance, humility, and love for others were principles that would guide his life as husband, father, and grandfather.

Visitation is Friday, April 28th from 1-3 and 6-8 pm, at the Keeney Basford Funeral Home, 106 E. Church Street, Frederick. A memorial service will be Saturday April 29th at 2 p.m., at the Trinity United Methodist Church, 705 West Patrick Street, Frederick. Rev. Dr. Jennifer Smith and Pastor Scott Clawson will officiate. Inurnment will be private.

Memorial Contributions can be made to : Mount Carmel United Methodist Church, St. Jude’s Hospital or Frederick Memorial Hospital Hospice.

Prolific as a soccer player at Middletown High School (1955), John Horine went on to Frostburg State College, where he started four years, led the team in scoring in three of them, was named All-South in 1957 and 1958, and was inducted into the university’s Hall of Fame in 1981. He started high school girls’ soccer in Frederick County in 1983 and produced many championship soccer, basketball, and baseball teams at both Emmitsburg High School and at MHS.

A center fielder and second baseman with the Frederick Hustlers baseball team that reached the National Semi-Pro tournament in 1941, J. Elwood Hummer was a gifted speedster on the base paths and led that team in stolen bases several seasons. The 1935 Walkersville High School grad also played on numerous championship teams in Frederick County baseball, soccer, basketball, and softball leagues; and later coached youth baseball with the National Little League in Frederick. He was also an avid golfer for more than 20 years.

One of the outstanding athletes and leaders of his era, D. John Markey coached the University of Maryland football team (then called the Maryland Aggies) from 1902 to 1904. He played football at Boys High School (now Frederick High School) in 1899, captained the reorganized Frederick Football team in 1900, then played and coached at Western Maryland College. Markey served as president and director of the Frederick YMCA and was active in numerous civic organizations. He was a true leader on the field and beyond.

David Miller won more than 500 games on the high schooland junior college levels in a coaching career that spanned five decades. Miller guided Poolesville High School (1969–1981) to the state finals in 1978 and led Walkersville High School (1981–1993) to six Maryland state tournament appearances, including championships in 1984 and 1986. He later brought the Frederick Community College men’s program to national prominence and was named Maryland JUCO and Charm City Association Coach of the Year in 2002. He had cage coaching excellence spanning five decades.

Known as “Terrible T,” Larry H. Thompson played on two unbeaten, nationally ranked Morgan State football teams and later with the undefeated 1972 IFL champion Frederick Falcons, after record-setting performances at Frederick High School. Thompson (class of 1965) won Tri-State League and CVAL All- Conference honors in football and once held four FHS track records: the triple jump, 440, 880 and mile relay teams. The mile team tied a Maryland state scholastic record. He also helped form the Frederick County Football Officials Association and was a member for 25 years.

Co-founder and lifetime member of the Frederick County Horseshoe Pitchers Association, and often called the “Iron Hand” behind Frederick horseshoes, Newell Esterly was one of the sport’s most avid promoters and administrators. He was instrumental in the 1981 creation of the Maryvale Park horseshoe pitching park, the first of its kind in the Frederick area, and host to many large state and national tournaments. The park has since been named the Esterly/Keilholtz Horseshoe Courts for the contributions of Esterly and fellow Hall of Fame member Glen Keilholtz.

A lifetime volleyball enthusiast, Patricia Fisher brought the sport to life in Frederick County. She was instrumental in establishing volleyball as an interscholastic sport in the county in the 1980s; she promoted a county high school championship tournament, which has since been named in her honor. Fisher also helped establish Men’s, Women’s, Triples and Co-ed Power programs for the City Recreation Department and developed youth feeder programs in neighboring communities. A coach and official for more than 30 years, Fisher continues to compete in the sport on a regional and national level. She is indeed the passion and power behind volleyball.

A prolific high school running back and track performer at Catoctin High School, Jesse Ketterman was the 1988 Frederick Post Offensive Player of the Year and a Scholar Athlete Award recipient from the National Football Foundation after rushing for 1,684 yards and 18 touchdowns. He was also a Maryland state Class 1A shot put (1988 and 1989) and discus (1989) champion and swept both events at the MVAL championships his junior and senior years. Ketterman went on to West Virginia Wesleyan, where he was Offensive MVP and an All-Conference Honorable Mention fullback in 1992.

Two-time national JUCO Converse Coach of the Year, Jack Mehl built the Frederick Community College women’s basketball program to one of consistent national prominence. Since 1989, his FCC teams have won five Maryland state titles, six regional championships; advanced to the National JUCO Tournament five times and the national title game once. He has recorded more than 300 victories at FCC and has been honored as Maryland JUCO Coach of the Year five times. Mehl has also coached baseball and basketball at Brunswick High School and in various county youth leagues. He is the architect of the nationally prominent FCC cage program.

From champion youth league competitor to acclaimed Parks and Recreation director, Blaine Smith has a storied lifetime of athletic and community leadership achievement. Leading rusher for Frederick High School’s 1964 Tri-State champion football team, he was named to the All- American Football team by Coach and Athlete Magazine. Smith also won more than 50 events for a three-time TSL champion track squad at FHS. At Western State College in Colorado, he was part of a 27-game win streak and three conference football championships. He later settled in Colorado, becoming director of Lake County Parks and Recreation and was named the “Outstanding Young Coloradoan” in1977. He was a distinguished athlete and community leader.

The definitive versatile athlete, William Ward was an Associated Press Little All-American in football at Gettysburg College (1956) and later inducted into the college’s Athletic Hall of Honor (1988). A four-sport letterman at Frederick High School, he captained the Cadets baseball team and set a county high jump record in 1951. Ward then attended Mercersburg Academy his senior year and was named Athlete of the Year. He played American Legion and semi-pro Maryland State League baseball, played and coached both basketball and baseball in the Army, where he retired with the rank of colonel in 1987. He was one of the county’s most versatile athletes.

Began a teaching career in physical education at Emmitsburg High School and continued her career in Frederick County School System for over 40 years. Her greatest love was her students and her dedication over the years working with exceptional students made her a pioneer in creating opportunities for the physically and mentally challenged students in Frederick County. She believed in teaching the mind and body as a unit. Her unselfish service and belief in impaired students led her to strive for successful creation of the Frederick County Special Olympics. She coached students to numerous championships in various sports and created for her teams and students the opportunity to achieve beyond all expectations.

A graduate of Frederick High School, David Markoe was an outstanding football and track athlete. He continued his education in California, earning extensive football honors. He returned to the University of Maryland, played varsity football, and as a graduate assistant, coached the freshman football team. He moved on to coach at Bowie High School and then returned home as defensive coordinator for Governor Thomas Johnson High School. With excellence in education, and his belief that an athlete’s body and mind are of an equal developmental process, he followed the path into administration in the Frederick County Public Schools system and as a school superintendent in West Virginia. With a love for Frederick County, and a dedication to youth, he returned home, providing and giving leadership to our own local YMCA. He was a versatile athlete, community leader, and dynamic role model.

A Frederick County native who began his love for clay target shooting and competition in 1963. He won 10 Frederick County championship titles and continued his winning traditions through the year 2004. From 1968-2002, he won numerous trap-shooting championships throughout the state of Maryland. Being highly competitive and intensely accurate, he continued to win numerous championships in MD, VA and W. VA. He has been highly recognized for his precise skill for more than 4 decades. His skill earned him trap- shooting championships from the US Eastern Zone, the National America League and in 2003 was named to the All American Trap Shooting team that consisted of only 10 members.

A lifelong resident of Frederick County and a graduate of Lincoln High School, Kenny Thompson developed into an outstanding athlete for his high school. In his 11th- and 12th-grade years, he held the Maryland state long jump and high jump records. An excellent basketball player, he helped lead Lincoln High School to various District I and II titles and a state champion title. After graduating and enlisting in the Navy, he again pursued athletic excellence with participation in a variety of sports. Karate led him to a thirst for improving techniques in this sport. He now holds a black belt, a second-degree black belt, and is an outstanding instructor for New York, New Jersey, and Maryland.

Graduated from Frederick County Schools and upon graduation earned degrees from Gettysburg College and Columbia University. He began his love for sports during his early developmental years with his involvement in the local YMCA. His experiences during these years led him on the path to a career in education. An outstanding athlete from the Frederick County School District, he returned home to build a winning athletic program for the school and community and continued his service to the Emmitsburg youth of all ages by coaching baseball, soccer, basketball. He later moved into the areas of principal, supervisor and superintendent in the state of New Jersey. “Determined-Dedicated to Helping Others Succeed-Role Model”

Born to teach and coach, Hal Grau began his career in Frederick County in 1972, coaching football and indoor and outdoor track throughout his career. He began to build his successful career as an assistant football and track coach at Arundel High School in Anne Arundel County, and then at Governor Thomas Johnson High School. As head coach at Catoctin High School, he established successful records on league, county, and state levels. He moved to Walkersville High School and continued as head coach until 2004. Grau was named Football Coach of the Year in 1982, 1983, and 1996. With Grau’s exceptional knowledge of athletics, he was a very astute indoor and outdoor track coach, and guided his teams to numerous county, league, and state titles. The third most successful football coach in the county, Grau never tires of working with youth and will continue to do so, today and in every tomorrow. He is a passionate, dedicated, and respected leader.

As a native of Frederick County and a graduate of Frederick High School, Maynard Hurd proved to be one of the most outstanding track athletes in the county area. Involved in all forms of athletics, his forté became track and field events during his high school and college years. His outstanding achievements include eight county and four regional championships for outdoor track, and two indoor hurdle state championships. Hurd continued his outstanding track performances at Frostburg State University as a five-time All-American for indoor and outdoor hurdles. He won five national indoor championships and holds the national record for the 55-meter hurdles. Three of his FSU records still remained unbeaten as of 2006: the 55- and 110-meter hurdles and the 4 X 200-meter relay. He was a persistent, gifted, and outstanding athlete.

An accomplished basketball player, Bill Kubat was regarded as one of the best players in the area. A Frederick County native, he grew up in the Brunswick area and graduated from Brunswick High School. After graduating from the University of Maryland, he returned to his home county to teach. Growing up, athletics was a big part of Kubat’s life, and he turned to coaching to give back to youth what he had received in his years of athletic involvement: Self-confidence, sportsmanship, team work and pride. Kubat coached JV basketball at Governor Thomas Johnson High School but soon returned to Brunswick as a head coach. Under his enthusiastic guidance, the team captured the 1977 State Basketball Championship, followed by the Monocacy Valley Athletic League Basketball Championship in 1978.

Dr. George Waxter, a retired dentist, was involved in Frederick County sports for more than 30 years. His competitive career began when he participated in the Maryland Senior Olympics in 1984. Waxter competed in the 1500-meter race and the 5K and 10K runs. From 1998 through 2003, he placed first in the 5K run four times, 1500-meter race three times, and won the 10K run once. Continuing his competition beyond the Maryland Senior Olympics, Waxter participated in all local long-distance events, including the five-mile run; 5K, 10K, and 15K runs; and is the Maryland state record holder for the 8K run. In his 16 years of competitive running, Waxter has placed first 64 times out of 94 events. He still continues his love for running, and he will always be a competitive athlete.

A graduate of Frostburg College, Carl Donald began his teaching career with the Frederick County Public Schools in 1960. During his 30-year tenure, he was a teacher, associate principal, principal, and county supervisor. Playing baseball most of his young life, Donald naturally continued this sport in his college years, where he had a career batting average over .300 and was a starter at shortstop and pitcher all four years. As a charter member of the Frederick County Football Officials, Donald officiated for 22 years and as commissioner was responsible for scheduling, training, and mentoring officials. He was a respected liaison to tri-county coaches, teams, administrators, and school systems. As facilitator for athletic functions, Donald has exhibited a degree of success that would be difficult to equal.

Tom Ford began his teaching and coaching career with Frederick County Public Schools in 1960. A graduate of Hereford High School, Ford was one of the first Hall of Fame inductees to be honored by the school. Excelling in soccer and baseball, he continued his athletic career at the University of Maryland. Ford was a three-year varsity soccer starter, who helped to win the 1956 ACC Championship and the 1957 regional title. A four-year member of the baseball team, Ford was a freshman starter at third base. FCPS hired Ford, and he began an amazing career at Walkersville High School: 16-year baseball coach with a 1978 state title and county and league titles, 15 years as athletic director, and eight years as a golf coach with state titles. During his AD tenure, Ford expanded the athletic program at Walkersville High.

A Frederick County native and Frederick High School graduate, Dick Krantz was a pole vaulter in high school and began at the YMCA to establish his many swimming records. Krantz attended Baldwin-Wallace College, where he participated in track as a pole vaulter and was on the swim team, setting records in the 100- and 200-meter butterfly, and was a member of the undefeated freestyle medley relay teams. In 1964, Krantz began his career at Rock Creek Center, working with mentally and physically challenged students. He was instrumental in creating programs designed to help these students adapt to physical activity, improve physical ability, and appreciate the benefits of sports. As a coach for swimming, volleyball, and track in a variety of arenas, he ensured inclusion of disabled students in physical activity throughout the county.

A three-sport graduate of Walkersville High School, Kenny Ports excelled in basketball, baseball, and soccer, and went on to collegiate soccer stardom at the University of Maryland. As a 1940–1942 soccer team member, Ports was known to have good speed and to be able to boot   the ball a mile. The 1941–1942 Terrapin team was one of the best in the country and one of the last at the school until after World War II. With an 8–0 season, this team was one of two unbeaten teams in the nation. Ports accepted a commission in the U.S. Army and was assigned to the 134th Infantry Regiment, 35th Division. He was killed in action in Europe in 1944. Ports was a big-league athlete and a big-league American.

A graduate of Middletown High School, Paul Stroup was an outstanding four-year athlete in soccer, basketball, and baseball. He received an athletic scholarship for basketball and baseball to George Washington University. After a successful collegiate baseball career, Stroup signed a four-year contract with the Boston Braves. After one year, however, he was drafted for military service. Retiring as a captain, Stroup entered the Frederick County Public Schools as a teacher and then advanced through the system as a counselor, associate principal, and principal. As a principal who believed in the value of athletics, Stroup nurtured athletes and coached, and developed strong athletic programs that became an integral part of his school. This positive role made him an outstanding advocate for Frederick County youth programs.

A graduate of Lincoln High School, Don Bowie played basketball and ran track. In basketball, Bowie was a four-year starter and led the team to the state finals in 1959. During his track years, Bowie lost only one 100-yard dash event during his four years on the team. Bowie enrolled at Morgan State and focused on track events. The long jump was his forte, but he competed in the triple jump and ran the 4 x 100-yard relay. Bowie took second in the long jump in the 1962 American championships, participated in three National AAU Indoor Championships, three Millrose Games Invitationals, CIAA Championships, and IC4A Championships—all between 1960 and 1963. Upon graduation, Bowie retired from active track competition to become a research chemist and environmentalist, and was recently elected Principal for Potomac-Hudson Engineering.

A Frederick County resident for 66 years, Leon Enfield was responsible in 1962 for helping to create jousting as the state sport for Maryland. He competed in jousting tournaments for 60 years in Maryland, Virginia, and West Virginia. Enfield was the Maryland Jousting Champion in 1957, 1961, 1962, 1964–1966, 1970, and 1973. He won the National Jousting Championship title in 1968, 1969, 1976, and 1978. Enfield was a 1975 charter member of the National Jousting Hall of Fame. Serving in many state jousting official capacities, Enfield was instrumental in introducing and teaching jousting to youth in Frederick County and surrounding states. He is very proud of his family’s involvement, and they all work together to preserve the integrity of the sport by performing and maintaining Enfield’s championship heritage.

A graduate of Thomas Johnson High School, Robert Griffin, Jr., was an accomplished football and basketball player. As a football defensive back, he helped to lead the Patriots to the1982 State Football Championship. Excelling in basketball, Griffin also helped to lead the Patriots to a Maryland state basketball championship in 1982. He was Frederick News-Post Player of the Year 1982–1984, Hagerstown Player of the Year 1984, and won the Frederick County Slam Dunk Champion 1984. Before graduating from James Madison University, Griffin started in 56 straight basketball games. Returning as a teacher to his home high school, Griffin served as mentor and role model to many young athletes. Serving on both the high school and collegiate levels, he is very active in the IAABO officials’ organization.

Cassie Hammond began her extraordinary trap-shooting career in 1979. During her career, she has captured every trap-shooting honor at the county, state, and national levels. As an outstanding shooter, Hammond has prestigious awards in record books in Maryland, Virginia, D.C., Pennsylvania, West Virginia, South Carolina, North Carolina, Tennessee, and Florida. She maintained her various championship titles from 1979 through 2006. She was named to the Women’s All-American Team for six years. Her 1987 averages were some of the highest to be recorded nationally: 97% singles and doubles shooting, and 94% all-around shooting. Hammond has traveled the entire Eastern Seaboard to capture Eastern zone titles, national titles, and the prestigious Annie Oakley title in both singles and doubles competition.

A Frederick County resident, Phil Ranneberger was an outstanding athlete and professional baseball player. He spent most of his life involved in baseball. Starting with Little League in 1960, he continued his playing career with the Babe Ruth League through 1964. Pitching and playing the field, Ranneberger led his team to the Babe Ruth League World Series in New Mexico in 1963. Playing baseball for Frederick High School and playing American Legion Baseball 1965–1967, he helped to lead the Frederick AL team to the Maryland State Championship and to the Mid- Atlantic Regional Tournament in New Jersey. In 1967, Ranneberger was drafted by the New York Yankees and played professionally for two years. He was a powerful hitter and considered to be the best in Frederick County.

Frank Zarnowski is considered the world’s foremost authority on the decathlon. During the past decade, he has organized, financed, officiated, and publicized junior, senior, collegiate, and international decathlon meets. Zarnowski is the only educator to organize and teach a college course in decathlon appreciation. He is a renowned author of two books; and editor, chief correspondent, and circulation manager of both a monthly decathlon newsletter and a decathlon yearbook. Career highlights include 1977– 1978 decathlon participant, announcer, promoter for the U.S.A.–U.S.S.R. meet; and head of the U.S.A. delegation to the U.S.S.R. Creating a voice for the public to understand decathlon performances has been a passion for Zarnowski locally, nationally, and internationally.

A lifelong resident of Frederick County, George Kuhn graduated from Frostburg College in 1962 and returned to his native county to begin his more than 40 years as a physical education teacher and basketball, track, and soccer coach. Kuhn’s name is synonymous with Frederick County soccer excellence. He coached soccer for more than 30 years at Emmitsburg High School and then at Catoctin High School. During this soccer tenure, Kuhn compiled records of eight consecutive winning seasons, qualified 11 times for district play, captured seven district titles, one regional championship, and was a state finalist in 1973. He was a charter member of the Blue Ridge Soccer Officials’ Association; he organized the first live radio coverage for high school soccer games, and will always promote the values acquired by playing the game of soccer.

As a Frederick County resident, Chuck Nichols graduated from Middletown High School and then Pfeiffer University in North Carolina. He returned to the county to begin his illustrious career in teaching physical education and coaching boys’ and girls’ soccer; that career spans more than 25 years at Governor Thomas Johnson High School and Urbana High School. As a teacher, Nichols organized programs that were challenging to his students and soccer players. His encouragement led to his superior soccer coaching achievements. Nichols has 22 championships: three state, six regional, four conference, six county, and three MVAL titles. As a coaching giant, he has been recognized by national associations. Nichols is a leader of youth—leading them to reach for and attain that high standard of perfection.

John Smith is one of the best divers ever to hail from Frederick County. He began his swimming career at Frederick High School and developed into a competitive diver on the college level at West Virginia University and the University of Maryland. His fervent career as a diving champion spanned more than 25 years. During his career Smith was well known on the local, state, and national levels as a diver and trampoline performer; and was a renowned coach in both areas. Smith held Frederick County diving records for 13 years. He has won numerous National Sky-High Trampoline titles, and silver and bronze medals on the national level. Smith coached five Frederick County high school diving teams and is responsible for keeping the program active for the county teams.

A Frederick County native, Anne Zumbach graduated from Middletown High School and then Shepherd College with a dual degree in math and physical education. As a marathon runner, she was a member of the Frederick Steeplechasers, ran the Baltimore Marathon and the J.F.K. 50-mile run. Because of her love for athletics, Zumbach was destined to become a coach and indeed coached for more than 30 years at Brunswick High School. She was co-coach in starting and developing cross-country and track and field for the Brunswick youth. As an assistant BHS three- season coach, she has helped win five school titles—two boys’ and six girls’ state cross-country championships and track and field state titles. Zumbach is active in the Brunswick community as a Boy Scout scoutmaster and was honored as Scoutmaster of the Year.

Lee Zumbach has been a high school coach for almost 40 years. Most of his coaching accomplishments have been at Brunswick High School in the area of cross-country and tennis. As a tennis coach, Zumbach guided the teams to eight MVAL championships and 12 individual county championships, with four players qualifying for state championships. In 1968, Zumbach reinstated the boys’ cross-country team and in 1981 established a girls’ team. The boys’ cross-country teams have won two state titles and two county titles. The girls’ teams have won six state titles, were finalists in four state team titles, and won five county titles. In 1983, Zumbach was named Maryland State Cross-Country Coach of the Year. Zumbach is co-founder of PVYA Youth Cross-Country, Blue Ridge Running Club, numerous other running clubs, and remains active in his community.