Rick Conner is described by his colleagues as the best high school football coach ever in Frederick County. In 1998 Rick was inducted into the Western Maryland Athletic Hall of Fame and in 2014 was inducted into the Maryland High School Football Coaches Hall of Fame. Throughout Rick’s career, he has touched many lives by being a great leader, mentor, and coach, not only on the football field but also by coaching basketball, swimming, track, and as a physical education teacher. Since 2001, as Linganore High School’s head football coach, Rick has racked up three state football championships, four state runners-up, seven regional championships and 10 Conference championships. As a defensive coordinator at Urbana High School, he helped guide them to four consecutive state championships, which is a state record, and 50 consecutive wins. At Thomas Johnson High School, he was the defensive coordinator and helped guide those teams to two state playoffs, a regional championship, and three conference championships.

Gail Gaeng is a graduate of Thomas Johnson High School. From 2005 to 2011, Gail was part of the Bennett Blazers sports program in Baltimore where she garnered national attention as the 2007 National Wheelchair Basketball Prep Champions and MVP. In 2011, the Blazers finished second at the National Wheelchair Basketball Varsity Championships, and again Gail was named MVP. Gail played wheelchair basketball at the University of Illinois where she was the team captain, two-time First Team Division I All-American, and helped the program place second in the 2015 and 2016 national championships. Gail was a member of the Team USA Women’s Wheelchair Basketball Team, team captain, and Gold Medalist in the 2016 Paralympics in Rio De Janeiro, Brazil, and was a gold medalist on the 2015 Para Pan-Am Games in Toronto. She is currently playing for the Chicago Lady Hawks, a semi-professional team in the Women’s Wheelchair Basketball League, wherein 2018 she was named MVP at the National Wheelchair Basketball Women’s Tournament.

Philip Hammond graduated from Frederick High School where he was an avid and award-winning tennis player. In 1974, he was ranked first in Maryland in the 18-and-under boys doubles division. He went to Furman University in Greenville, S.C., where he was a team captain his senior year, leading the squad to the Southern Conference Championships in 1976 and 1977. In 1980, he won the Middle Atlantic Husband-Wife Mixed Doubles Championship with his wife, Jody. In 2006, Phil won the Maryland State Hardcourt and the Middle Atlantic Clay Court 50-and-over doubles championship. He is a six-time champion of the Rice Radcliffe Singles Tournament and 17-time champion of the J. Richard Remsburg Doubles Tournament at the Frederick Tennis Club. Phil helped build the Mount Saint Mary’s tennis program to a reputable and competitive program in the Northeast Conference from 2004 to 2015 as the program’s coach. He led the Mount’s tennis program to winning seasons seven out of his first 10 years.

This year, the Hall of Fame committee established the Alvin G. Quinn Sports Hall of Fame Rising Star Award to honor an individual or team, whose age/s are no older than 19, that has demonstrated exceptional accomplishments and contributions in their athletic field, and has brought honor to self and Frederick County during the past year. The Hall of Fame Rising Star committee unanimously voted to recognize Saylor Poffenbarger, a 16-year-old girls’ basketball standout from Middletown High School.

Saylor is currently a junior at Middletown High School. She was one of only 33 players who received an invitation to try out for the 2019 USA Women’s U16 National Team and in May 2019 was named to the 12-member roster. In June of 2019, Saylor helped led Team USA to a gold medal in the FIBA U16 Women’s Americas Championship, beating Canada 87-37 in the Gold Medal game. Team USA went 6-0 in Puerto Aysan, Chile, beating teams from Brazil, Puerto Rico, El Salvador, Chile, Mexico, and Canada. Saylor contributed significantly to the team’s success. She averages 18.4 minutes per game, 7.2 points per game and scored 10 points in the gold medal game against Canada.

Saylor has been recognized as a 2018 and 2019 All-State first-team selection, 2019 All-Area, and 2018-2019 Central Maryland Conference Player of the Year. She has compiled 1,109 points, 597 rebounds, 207 assists, 137 steals, and 149 blocked shot through her sophomore year at Middletown High School. Saylor verbally committed to play college basketball at the University of Connecticut, the most successful women’s college basketball program in the nation with 11 Division I national championships and 19 Final Four appearances since 1995.

Yuri Suguiyama graduated from Urbana High School where he was the Frederick News-Post Swimmer of the Year in 1997 and four-time Frederick County swim champion. He swam for the Curl-Burke Swim Club for five years, winning a national title in the 800 free relay at the 2000 Spring Nationals. Yuri continued his swimming career at the University of North Carolina, where he was a four-year swimmer and holds UNC’s record for the 1000 and 1650 freestyle events. He was an NCAA All-American selection his senior year and three-time All ACC selection. Yuri qualified for the 2000 and 2004 Olympic trials and competed in the 2000 Olympic trials. He was the assistant coach for the University of California men’s swim team that won the 2014 NCAA national title. He currently is the head coach for the University of Wisconsin men’s and women’s swim teams. Yuri has coached for Team USA and was the individual coach for Kate Ledecky during the 2012 Olympics in London, where the 15-year-old won the gold medal in 800 freestyle.

Clarence “Petie” Cooper, a three-sport standout at Frederick High School, was a dominant southpaw who struck out 19 batters in seven innings to lead Frederick to 1-0, one-hit shutout against Glenelg in 1969. Cooper’s 19 strikeouts on the day allowed him to break his own school record of 18, which he set during the 1968 season. These were the headlines often seen about one of the best athletes to come out of Frederick High School. In 1969, Petie was drafted in the fifth round (110th overall pick) of the Major League Baseball Amateur Draft by the Cincinnati Reds. He played six years in the Minor Leagues with the Cincinnati Reds and Minnesota Twins organizations, reaching the AAA level. Petie’s name is all over the Cadets record books in football, basketball, and baseball. Besides his 19 strikeouts in a game, his 226 career strikeouts is best in the 111 years of Cadets baseball. He holds the FHS school record for wins in a season (13) and career (26). His 1969 season ERA of 0.56 is also etched in as the lowest ever allowed by a Cadet pitcher. The 1969 Cadets would go on the win the Frederick County, Tri-State League, and District pennants. He also set football records, which included throwing 28 touchdown passes during the Cadets’ 10-0 season in 1968.

Described by many as the best field hockey player ever to come out of Frederick County, Joann Engestrom would eventually make the 2003 U.S. National Field Hockey Team and U23 National Team. Joann, a three-sport athlete at Middletown High School, was named the Frederick News-Post Field Hockey Player of the Year her senior season. She went on to play Towson University for three seasons, leading the team in scoring her junior year. Joann transferred to Temple for her senior season where she earned All-Atlantic 10 Conference first-team honors. Joann has coached and mentored youth teams, high school players, club and college hockey teams while sharing her passion, skill and knowledge for the game of field hockey. She continues to pass on her skill, experience and drive for the game of field hockey to many future players. Joann was a talented field hockey player who controlled the field with her skill and passion and competitive drive while inspiring and motivating other players to improve their performance.

Natalie Cleckley Jackson played four seasons on the Linganore High School girls varsity basketball team, which she captain her junior and senior years. She was the Frederick County Girls Basketball Player of the Year her senior year. Natalie went on to play power forward for Furman University. She was the recipient of the 1987-88 Southern Conference Freshman of the Year award. She later was the 1990-91 Southern Conference Player of the Year after earning first-team All-Southern Conference first-team honors in 1990-91 and second-team honors in 1988-89. During her junior year in 1989-90, Natalie helped lead Furman to its first Southern Conference basketball championship and first 20-win season (20-9). She led Furman in scoring and rebounding as a freshman and, as a senior, she paced the Paladins in scoring, rebounding, and field goal percentage. She averaged 14.7 points and 9.5 rebounds per games over the course of her career. She was named to the Southern Conference Academic Honor Roll and Furman’s Most Valuable Player in 1990-91. As a senior, she set Furman single-season records for points scored (575) and rebounds (356). She was inducted into Furman’s Hall of Fame in 1996.

Tracey Kelley Kibler is one of the finest athletes to come out of Middletown High School for her play in girls basketball and field hockey. Tracey was named All-MVAL and Frederick News-Post All-Area in basketball (1991-1993) and field hockey (1991-1992). She was named the Frederick News-Post and Hagerstown Herald-Mail Girls Basketball Player of the Year in 1993. As captain of the basketball team, she helped lead the Knights to a 26-0 record and Class 2A state title in 1993. Tracey also helped the field hockey team to a state championship in 1991. Tracey continued her basketball career at East Carolina University. She was a three-year team captain who earned CAA All-Rookie honors as a freshman and CAA All-Tournament honors as a senior. In between, she led East Carolina in rebounding for three seasons, and won Defensive Player of the Year, Most Valuable Player, and Leadership Award honors. Tracey, while at Catoctin High School, was named Frederick News-Post Girls Basketball Coach of the Year in 2004 and she added AWCC Women’s Basketball Coach of the Year in 2006 while at Hood College. Tracey also served as the Five-Star Women’s Basketball Camp Director and has coached many successful Mid-Maryland and MVAA girls basketball teams. In her career, Tracey serves as a High School Principal where she continues to advocate for equitable access to athletics for all students. One of her greatest passions is to serve student-athletes as a mentor and life coach.

Stephen Linger’s legacy in the world of women’s fast-pitch softball in Frederick County is still felt today. He was the founder of the Lewistown Tigers in the 1980s, the first girls’ fast-pitch softball travel team in Frederick County. The Tigers won 42 tournaments and produced 21 players that received scholarships to play in college. Stephen coached softball at Thomas Johnson High School where his teams went 40-17. He ran the Tigers fast-pitch softball clinic at Frederick Community College for years. He later coached at Messiah College where he guided the team to its first 20-win season in 1991 and added three MAC Championships (1991, 1993, and 1994), eventually winning the MAC in 1994. Stephen not only cared about all the players he coached but also cared about the community, and he was named Outstanding Young Marylander in 1980. An example of his dedication to softball in the county, he started the Frederick Community College softball team with no budget and donated his coaching salary back to the program to make it successful.

Bengie Biggus was a three-sport star at Frederick High School, excelling in basketball, baseball, and football. After high school, Bengie attended Frederick Community College and joined the baseball team. After two standout years at FCC, he was signed by the Milwaukee Brewers. Bengie went on to play six years of professional baseball, splitting his career between the Milwaukee Brewers and San Francisco Giants. Bengie held the mark for the most modern baseball professional pitching wins by any player from Frederick County until the 1990s. Bengie pitched more than 570 innings, appeared in 114 games, struck out 321 batters, and compiled an overall 37-26 record. Bengie’s best year was when he pitched for the Shreveport Captains in Double-A, helping his team to the best record in the Texas League, where his 12-6 record and a 3.21 ERA were third-best among all starting pitchers that year. After sustaining a significant injury in his pitching arm, Bengie returned to Frederick County, where he has coached, trained, and mentored various baseball and basketball teams and fitness training for soccer, football, and track and field athletes. At FHS, he served as an Assistant Baseball Coach alongside Head Coach Phil Rhodes for ten years. In addition to his lifetime love of sports, Bengie has worked and volunteered alongside his wife Angie for nearly 30 years to serve underprivileged, special needs, at-risk youth, and high needs adults and families in Frederick County and abroad. Most recently, Bengie was highly honored to be selected as one of only 200+ Frederick athletes of all recorded times to be featured on the Frederick Sports Mural, one of the largest sports murals in the country, to be installed at the Frederick Keys Stadium.

Elizabeth “Liz” Lebherz Hansel was a Thomas Johnson High School graduate and Towson University swimming standout. Liz was never part of a losing meet in high school and went on to a stellar college career that included 10 Colonial Athletic Association (CAA) conference titles, six CAA records and she broke 17 school records during her tenure. She held eight school records when she graduated. Liz earned All-CAA honors in seven events during her senior year and qualified for the NCAA Championships as a senior. Liz was one of only three Towson swimmers that were named to the CAA 25th Anniversary Women’s and Diving Team. Liz is recognized as one of the best swimmers in Towson University history. After graduating from Towson University, Liz was an assistant swimming coach for Towson University and earned her Master’s Degree from Goucher College in teaching.

Coach Kevin Lynott spent more than two decades as an exceptional football coach with tenures at Brunswick and Middletown high schools. Coach Lynott is best known for the dynasty he created as the football head coach at Middletown High School from 2008-2017. During this time, he compiled a record of 86 wins and just 27 losses. The Knights won three out of four consecutive 2A Maryland State Football titles from 2010-2013. He led the Knights to five MVAL championships, five 2A West regional championships, and one 1A North regional championship at Brunswick, five Piedmont Conference titles, and guided the Middletown High School football program to the longest winning streak ever, winning 36 consecutive games. To add, while at Brunswick High School he helped lead the football team as an offensive coordinator to its first 1A State Championship appearance in 1999. It’s no wonder that fnfcoaches.com named Lynott one of 20 most influential coaches when his career has a combined record of 112 wins and 53 losses. Coach Lynott has been named as the Association Press Maryland State Football Co-Coach of the Year, USA Today National Runner UP, Mid Atlantic Regional, Maryland Coach of the Year, and Fellowship of Christian Athletes Coach of the Year. Coach Lynott has been very instrumental in growing Youth football in Frederick County through his leadership role as a USA Football Master Trainer for the Heads Up Football Program, working with the MVAA Youth Football program for many years his support of Frederick youth programs. Currently, Coach Lynott’s is focused on Move United as USA Wheelchair Football Senior Consultant for Development, Education and Training (2019- current) and NFL Salute to Service & Bob Woodruff Foundation (serving the Disabled Veteran Population).

Alexis Maday Packard was a standout gymnast spending time on the U.S. National Team for several years and represented the United States of America in Brussels, Belgium, in 1997. Alexis was a Frederick High School graduate in 2000 and received a full athletic scholarship to the University of Iowa. While at Iowa, she was a three-time All-America gymnast from 2002-2004. Alexis was a six-time Big Ten champion, winning the all-around in 2001. She earned first-team All-Big Ten honors from 2001-2004. Alexis was named Big Ten Freshman of the Year in 2001 and Big Ten Gymnast of the Year in 2004. She holds or shares the University of Iowa school records in the all-around, uneven bars, and floor exercises. In 2018, she was inducted into the University of Iowa’s Sports Hall of Fame, becoming only the second female gymnast to receive this prestigious honor.

Phil Rhodes was the Frederick High School baseball coach for 30 years, serving from 1992 to 2021. He led the Cadets to an MPSSAA Class 3A State Championship in 2009. During his tenure at Frederick High, he also led teams to the state finals, regional championships, and CMC championships. Phil coached the Cadets to 266 wins during his career. Phil was named Coach of the Year by the Frederick News-Post four times: 1996, 1999, 2005, and 2009. He also was named the Coach of the Decade from 2001-2010 by the Frederick News-Post. Coach Rhodes was fortunate enough to Coach several players who played professional baseball and currently has six former players who serve as high school baseball coaches throughout Frederick County.

Brittain Altomare is known as one of the greatest women’s lacrosse players ever to come out of Frederick County. Brittain went to Middletown High School and was selected as a four-time Frederick News-Post All-Area and all-conference selection for the Knights. In her senior year, she helped lead the Knights to an 18-0 regular season. At Middletown, she tallied 247 career goals and 95 assists. She was selected as a High School All-American. She went on to play lacrosse at Hofstra University from 2012-2015 where she racked up numerous achievements, including NCAA Division 1 All-American, Colonial Athletic Association Player of the Year, CAA All-League First Team Selection 3 Years in a row, CAA All-Rookie Team, USWLA Mid-Atlantic All-Region Team, and IWLCA Third Team All-American. She was also included on the Tewarraton Award Watch List during her senior season. Upon graduation from Hofstra, she was the program all-time leader in Points, Assists, and Draw Controls, as well as holding the season record for all of those categories. She remains in the top three on the all-time list for most of the significant point categories at Hofstra.  She played professionally after her stellar collegiate career for the Baltimore Ride in the United Women’s Lacrosse League in 2017. Brittain spent her first four years after college working for Harlem Lacrosse, the nation’s largest lacrosse non profit. She now works as a 5th-grade teacher at PS 149, the Sojourner Truth School in Harlem, New York. Brittain joins her great-grandfather Warner Brittain in the Sports Hall of Fame. Inducted in 1986, Warner “Mike” Brittain was known locally as the father of Frederick County football through his leadership as a coach and promoter of sports. The Frederick Seneca Football Team was founded in the early 1940s. This program helped to reinstitute football at Frederick High School in 1946, following a 24-year absence dating back to 1923. Brittain was the complete coach, treating his athletes with respect and understanding, which fostered lifetime values. He was a valued community leader, devoted coach, and friend to all privileged to work with him.

Ernie Bowens was known as a dynamic athlete and team leader on the football field and basketball court. He played for Governor Thomas Johnson High School in the early 1970s, where he excelled in football and basketball. Known for his athleticism, speed, quickness, and toughness, he led the 1971 Governor Thomas Johnson High school football team to a 10-0 season. As a quarterback, he guided a team that averaged 36 points per game. He helped a defense that allowed only 50 points for the season. He was named to the Maryland All-State team in 1971. For years, he was the all-time leading scorer in TJ basketball history and led the basketball team to the Tri-State League Championship and state playoffs in 1970-71 as the starting point guard. Ernie went on to play for the Frederick Falcons in 1972 and helped the Falcons go undefeated that season and win the league championship. 

Michael Rice was one of the top basketball players ever to play at Governor Thomas Johnson High School. Today, he still holds many top individual basketball records at the school. He remains the top rebounder in school history with 1,284 rebounds and is second in school history with 1,972 career points. His 51 points in a single-game record are tied for first in school history. In his senior year, he averaged 27.7 points a game and led the team to win their first state championship. In his senior year, he was ranked in the top 20 power forwards in the country. Mike went on to play basketball for the University of Pittsburgh from 1976-1977 and the University of San Francisco from 1979-1980. After college, Mike played professional basketball for several years in Finland, Chile, and Puerto Rico in the CBA.

Frederick Schumacher is one of the most recognized senior running athletes in Frederick County history. He has completed 37 JFK 50-mile races, ranking him third on the all-time finishers list. He has been competing for more than 20 years in Senior Olympics, earning 51 medals: 18 Gold, 19 Silver, and 14 Bronze. He not only participates in running marathons, he also is known as a sprinter in the 200 and 400 meters, the javelin and football throw competitions, and the shot put. He has participated in more than 250 races, winning numerous other awards, and has been the center point of many national articles about his successes. Fred proudly served his country for many years and retired as a U.S. Army Colonel. He has been instrumental in many clubs and organizations throughout Frederick County, such as the Frederick Steeplechasers Running Club, Veteran Day Echo Taps, and the Frederick County Veterans Advisory Council. Fred is certified as a Level 1 USATF Track and Field coach and has certifications as a personal fitness trainer. Fred served as a volunteer Strength and Conditioning Coach for Gettysburg’s varsity athletes from 2016 to 2020.

Kathleen Sixx certainly meets the YMCA Core Values of Caring, Honesty, Respect, and Responsibility through her lifetime of accomplishments on and off the field in Frederick County. Kathy spent 40 years as a field hockey official in Frederick County before retiring in 2017. She also served as the Coordinator for Frederick County Officials for nearly 39 years, advocating for the sport, the players, and the officials. She was instrumental in helping field hockey grow in Frederick County and even recruited players to become officials and trained them. Kathy held training camps regularly throughout Frederick County to help train and mentor young athletes. Kathy has received many accomplishments off the field as well, being recognized as Outstanding Teacher of the Year, Department Chair/s, Team leader, and teacher. She is a graduate of Catoctin High School and Frostburg State University. 

Niki Novocin Eastley has earned the distinction of one of the greatest field hockey players to hail from FrederickCounty, and she is still contributing to the game today. Her accolades trace back to high school, where she was an integral part of Linganore’s 1993 Maryland Class 3A field hockey state championship team. Niki showcased her leadership and defensive prowess and was named Frederick County Defensive Player of the Year that season. Her collegiate journey at Boston College was equally impressive, marked by academic excellence and on-field achievements. As a scholarship athlete, Niki garnered recognition as a 1998 NCAA Regional All-American, Big East First Team All-Conference player, and Big East Defensive Player of the Week. Her impact contributed to three Big East championships and NCAA Tournament appearances for Boston College. Transitioning seamlessly from player to coach, Niki has dedicated herself to nurturing young talents. Her coaching roles at Clarksburg High School and various clubs exemplify her commitment to developing field hockey players at both the high school and club levels. Beyond coaching, Niki has contributed to the sport as an umpire, officiating at state-level competitions and high school field hockey leagues. Beyond the sports community, Niki also serves in her church community as the current President of the Women’s Organization. Her multifaceted contributions as a player, coach, and leader underscore her profound impact on the field hockey community.

Jenn Ford, a distinguished alumna of Thomas Johnson High School, marked her athletic journey with resounding success. As a North Florida track standout, she won three NCAA Division II national titles and garnered five All-America selections. A pioneer at the University of North Florida, she was inducted into the university’s athletic Hall of Fame and two of the four school records she set in 2001 still stand over two decades later. Beyond college, Jenn continued her stride, conquering the Boston and New York Marathons with impressive 3:16 finishes. In 2016, she set a personal record of 8:16:45 in the JFK 50-miler, showcasing her endurance prowess. She was the first-place women’s finisher in nine of the 26 races, none shorter than marathon distance, in which she competed between 2013-2019. During her high school years, Jenn displayed exceptional talent, winning four state titles in distances ranging from 1,600 meters to cross country. In three of those state title performances, she posted the fastest overall time among all four classification performers. Beyond her own athletic feats, she has extended her passion by coaching middle school and high school track teams in Washington, and has mentored her son’s youth soccer team at her local YMCA in Virginia.

John Fowler’s journey in the world of baseball is a storied tale of a local player who was able to play professionally in his hometown. His athletic prowess surfaced early when he led the 1981 Brunswick Little League All-Star team to a state title, earning himself MVP of the league that same year. John was a three-time All-MVAL selection during his time at Brunswick High School, which culminated in being named the Frederick News-PostCounty Player of the Year in 1986. During his high school career, he was part of Frederick’s 16-18-year-old team that competed in the 1985 Babe Ruth World Series. He was drafted by the Baltimore Orioles in the 1986 draft following high school but turned it down to attend Frederick Community College where he ended up as a two-time JuCo all-state selection. Again, he was drafted by the Baltimore Orioles in 1988 and this time signed, which started his professional career. He had stints with the Bluefield Orioles and Wausaw Timbers before becoming only the fifth local player to play for the Frederick Keys. Beyond his playing days, John’s commitment to the game and his community is evident through coaching stints at Little League and travel baseball for both Frederick and Brunswick. His influence extends to football and basketball coaching, emphasizing his dedication to shaping young athletes.

Danny Miller’s coaching journey is a testament to his unwavering commitment and impact on Frederick National Little League for an astounding 45 years. Beginning this journey at the age of 14, Danny’s dedication and leadership shone through as he progressed from assistant coach (1978-1984) to head coach (1985-2023). His impressive 545-237 record includes 18 league championships, five Frederick City championships, and two MarylandDistrict 2 Tournament of Champions titles. In his extensive tenure, Danny managed All-Star teams for both 9-10- and 11–12-year-olds, securing a total of 10 District 2 championships (three with the 9-10s, seven with the 11-12s). His 2000 9-10 All-Star team won the state title, 2012 9-10 team was state runner-up and 2019 11-12 team was the state runner-up. His role extends beyond coaching, as he served as the grounds crew at Staley Stadium, which is among the best Little League facilities in the region. Danny’s coaching legacy transcends sports, as he has also coached middle school girls’ basketball since 1999, showcasing his versatility and dedication to youth sports in the county. Despite coaching some of Frederick’s best players, including Doug Smallwood, Darnell Whims, Branden Kline, and Joey Hammond, Danny remains incredibly humble, deflecting credit to his players’ success. His positive influence is evident in the trust his parents place in him, making Danny Miller a cornerstone of the Frederick community and embodying the core values of caring and responsibility at the YMCA.

Susan House Pardo’s 33-year teaching career at Walkersville High School reflects her dedication to education, athletics, and community service. Specializing in health and physical education, she has left an indelible markon countless students, earning Superior and Distinguished Evaluations from administrators. Beyond the classroom, Susan co-facilitated inclusion programs for special education in physical education. Her extensive involvement in coaching and athletics includes roles as an assistant athletic director, head varsity swimming coach, and head girls’ varsity basketball coach. She also has spent more than 35 years as a fieldhockey official in the county. Susan’s impact extends beyond sports, with her contributions to emergency medical services and safety committees at Walkersville High School. She’s also noted as putting safety first and served as one of the first on-locationtrainers for athletic events in Frederick County. Recognized as a 2015 FCPS Teacher of the Year Finalist, Susan’s influence goes beyond the school walls. She serves on the Safety and Security Committee, Crisis Team, and Epi-pen Administration Team. Her commitmentto community service is exemplified through her roles in the Walkersville Volunteer Rescue Company, American Red Cross, and various fundraisers. Susan’s personal athletic achievements include scoring 14 points in the final as Middletown won a state title-winninggirls basketball team. She also was the leader in free throw percentage at Frederick Community College and played in the JuCo Region XX All-Star Game.

Billy Gross: Athletic Excellence and Inspirational Leadership

Billy Gross, a Frederick High School, and West Virginia University graduate, has carved an impressive path as a player, coach, and educator. A standout athlete from an early age, Gross achieved numerous accolades in baseball and football, excelling on local, regional, and national stages.

During his youth, Gross was a Frederick American Little League All-Star, contributing to the 1998 Maryland State Championship team. Gross played for the Frederick Hustler organization after playing for Frederick American Little League. He earned MVP honors at the 2004 Dizzy Dean World Series and later showcased his talent with the Mid-Atlantic Red Sox. At Frederick High School, Gross was a four-year varsity baseball player, earning titles such as Frederick News-Post Baseball Player of the Year and spots on the Washington Post All-Met Team. He also excelled in football and golf, securing all-state and regional honors as a punter.

Gross continued his athletic career at West Virginia University, where he was a four-year baseball letterman, earning Big East Third Team All-Conference honors and setting records as WVU’s Most Valuable Pitcher in 2008. After college, Gross played professionally for the Orioles organization, including stints with the Gulf Coast League Orioles and Bluefield Orioles.

Transitioning to coaching, Gross led the Governor Thomas Johnson High School baseball team to four state tournament appearances, culminating in a 3A State Championship in 2018. He earned MSABC Coach of the Year honors that same year. Today, Gross serves as MPSSAA 3A West Baseball Regional Director and co-founded the FCPS Student-Athlete Leadership Council.

A dedicated educator and community leader, Gross continues to inspire future generations both on and off the field.

Mike Mummert: A Champion of Multi-Sport Coaching and Community Leadership

Mike Mummert’s career in athletics, coaching, and education spans more than four decades, leaving an indelible mark on Frederick County sports. A standout athlete at Hanover High School (Pa.), Mike excelled in football, basketball, and track before continuing his basketball career at Shippensburg University his freshman year. After graduating, he embarked on a 39-year teaching and coaching journey in Frederick County Public Schools.

Mike’s coaching career is defined by versatility and success. He served as an assistant coach for football (11 years), basketball (11 years), and baseball (6 years) before taking on the role of varsity basketball coach at Walkersville High School in 1994. Over the course of his basketball career, he was part of a program as an assistant coach whose teams won six regional championships, seven league championships, two state runner-up finishes, and two state championships. As a head coach, he guided his teams to a 122-88 record. In 2000, Mike was named Frederick County Basketball Coach of the Year.

Equally accomplished in football, Mike contributed to three regional championships, two state runner-up finishes, and a state title as an assistant coach. His JV football teams posted a 66-13-3 record.

As Walkersville’s Athletic Director from 1998 to 2022, Mike earned the 1999 District I Athletic Director of the Year award and became a Certified Athletic Administrator. Beyond high school athletics, Mike coached 39 youth sports seasons across multiple organizations, promoting growth and sportsmanship in soccer, basketball, baseball, lacrosse, and softball.

A pillar of character, Mike embodies the YMCA’s core values and continues to inspire through his unwavering dedication to athletes and the Frederick County community.

David Stone: A Legacy of Excellence On and Off the Field

David Stone is a celebrated three-sport student-athlete from Frederick County, excelling in baseball, basketball, and golf. A standout at Thomas Johnson High School (1996-1998), Stone was a two-time All-Area Baseball Player of the Year and a dominant force in Frederick’s American Legion baseball team, earning recognition as one of the best hitters in local high school history.

His high school and Legion performances earned him a scholarship to play at the University of Virginia, where he thrived both athletically and academically. Stone started all 57 games his senior year, leading the team in runs scored (53) and stolen bases (26) while ranking second in batting average (.360) and hits (76). Across his UVA career, he started 226 games, ranking second in hits (276) and runs scored (174) while setting the all-time record for walks (156) and stolen bases (83).

Stone’s achievements earned him induction into the UVA Athletic Hall of Fame in 2024. Academically, he graduated with a 3.902 GPA and was a two-time Verizon Academic All-American in 2001 and 2002.

Drafted by the San Francisco Giants in 2002, Stone spent one year in Minor League Baseball where he batted .281 for Salem-Keizer in the Northwest League. Rather than continue a professional baseball career, pursued his passion for medicine, earning his degree from UVA Medical School. Today, he practices pain management in Phoenix, Arizona.

Frank Strakonsky: A Lifelong Advocate for Athletics and Youth Development

Frank Strakonsky has dedicated more than four decades to coaching, mentoring, and fostering excellence in cross country and track and field. His storied coaching career began in the late 1970s as a volunteer coach at Brunswick High School and PVYA Track and Cross Country. Since then, he has become a cornerstone of Frederick County athletics, coaching at Frederick High School and establishing programs that promote youth participation in sports.

As the head girls’ cross country coach at FHS since 1987 and boys’ cross country coach since 2017, Strakonsky has guided his teams to two state championships, multiple regional and conference titles, and in 1989 ranked as the top team in Maryland by the Baltimore Sun. His efforts were recognized in 2023 when he was named Maryland Girls Cross Country Coach of the Year by the U.S. Track and Field and Cross Country Coaches Association.

Strakonsky’s achievements extend beyond cross country. He led FHS to a rare “Triple Crown” in the 1995-96 school year with state championships in cross country, indoor, and outdoor track. His influence on youth athletics is equally profound, founding the Frederick Fury and Frederick Athletic Academy programs, which produced numerous state champions and national qualifiers.

He was the high school coach of NCAA All-American Valerie Williams (FHS ‘96), who still holds high school state records. Some of his other standouts and state champions include Jenny Novak (1989), Michelle Higgenbothom (1996), Imani White (2001), Anna Routzahn (2003), Grace McCallum (1996), Jada Smith (2016), and Caroline Gregory (2021).

Beyond sports, Strakonsky has been active in community service, from organizing charity races to contributing to church leadership. His dedication to athletics, education, and his community has made him a role model for generations.

Bruce Zimmerman: A Legacy of Coaching Excellence and Community Impact

Bruce Zimmerman, a Frederick County native, has dedicated his life to athletics, coaching, and community service. A graduate of Governor Thomas Johnson High School (Class of 1979), Zimmerman began his athletic journey in the Lewistown Baseball League, Frederick County Junior Baseball League, and Frederick Babe Ruth League, where he won state titles in 1976 and 1978. At TJHS, he excelled in basketball and baseball, earning First Team All-Area baseball honors during his senior year.

Zimmerman continued his academic and athletic career at Frederick Community College and Frostburg State University, earning a Bachelor of Science in Physical Education while making the Dean’s List at both institutions. Bruce was a Physical Education Teacher for 32 years.

As a coach, Zimmerman’s impact on Frederick County athletics is extraordinary. From 1984 through 2002, he was the head junior varsity and assistant varsity coach at Thomas Johnson, where the team compiled five state titles and four state runner-up finishes. He served as Walkersville’s head coach from 2002-2009, where his teams went 118-56 and won four MVAL titles. The 2005 team reached the state semifinals. In his 25 years as a basketball coach, his teams amassed a 409-112 record and had only one losing season. He also coached elite teams, including the 1999 Reebok Capitol Classic U.S. All-Star Team and the 2009 McDonald’s Roundball Classic Elite Division Team.

Zimmerman also was a highly successful golf coach at Thomas Johnson and Walkersville, with his Walkersville team winning the State Title in 1998 & 1999.

Beyond coaching, Zimmerman contributed to the Glade Valley Athletic Association, taught physical education for 34 years at Walkersville Middle School, and volunteered with the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society. His dedication to youth sports and community events, combined with his remarkable coaching success, has left a lasting legacy in Frederick County.

Building Champions and Shaping Frederick County Volleyball

Jim Dorsch is a transformative figure in Frederick County volleyball, whose coaching career has spanned decades and reshaped the sport locally. He was the head coach at Thomas Johnson High School from 1997 to 2008, helping lead teams to remarkable achievements, including two state final appearances in 1998 and 2008, four state semifinal appearances, and a flawless 14-0 regular season in 2006. During this period, Dorsch developed players such as Erin Maldo, who earned a Division I scholarship to Cincinnati.

Building on this foundation, Dorsch became the head coach at Oakdale High School in 2010, taking over a fledgling program with a 1-12 record. Under his leadership, Oakdale volleyball rapidly evolved into a state powerhouse. By 2014, Oakdale captured a state title, a first for Frederick County, and went on to win a second state title in 2017, with a state finalist appearance in 2019. Dorsch’s teams have consistently performed at a high level, posting multiple seasons with 17-2 and 18-2 records. His mentorship produced outstanding athletes, including Liz Twilley, a Division I recruit to the University of Maryland and Maryland Gatorade Player of the Year.

Beyond high school competition, Dorsch founded the Frederick Volleyball Club in 1998 and served as its director until 2018, inspiring hundreds of young athletes to participate in volleyball and elevating the competitive level in Frederick County. Since 1999, he has also served as the 4A North State Volleyball Director, contributing to the broader development of the sport.

Dorsch has earned six Frederick News-Post Coach of the Year awards (1998, 2000, 2002, 2004, 2006, and 2008) and has coached numerous athletes who went on to play at the collegiate level, including Erica Buls (FCC), Haley Gieck (FCC), Abbie Harry (Central Arkansas), Emily Chomiak (FCC), Megan Ray (Muhlenberg College), Amani Walker (Hampton University), Jess Twilley (UAB), and others.

Winning Coach, Trailblazing Educator, and Champion of Student Athletes

Mike Franklin’s coaching career spans nearly three decades, highlighted by his 25 years as baseball head coach at Catoctin High School (2000–2024). During his tenure, he guided more than 60 players to collegiate baseball careers or the professional draft. Under his leadership, Catoctin won state championships in 2013 and 2021. His teams have consistently performed at the highest level, claiming multiple regional titles and earning him the NFHS Maryland Baseball Coach of the Year award in 2021. Franklin has also been recognized as the MSABC Coach of the Year in 2013 and 2021, a testament to his enduring excellence and impact on the sport.

A graduate of Salisbury University with a Bachelor’s degree in Physical Education and a Master’s in Exercise Science from McDaniel College, Franklin has been a cornerstone of Catoctin High School since 1996, serving as a teacher, department chair, and mentor to hundreds of students.

Beyond baseball, Franklin has broken new ground in athletics and education. He co-coached Middletown High’s girls’ flag football team to the first-ever Frederick County and State Championship in 2023, demonstrating his versatility and commitment to student-athlete opportunities across sports. He also pioneered Maryland’s first Unified Physical Education class in 2013, integrating students with and without disabilities into a shared PE experience.

Franklin’s influence extends to youth sports and community programs, including coaching travel baseball, girls’ fastpitch softball, and organizing the Robbie Siedel III Baseball Tournament, honoring a former player lost in Iraq. He has also served as MPSSAA Region Baseball Chairman and a mentor through programs like CHS ROAR Club and Special Olympics events.

Recognized nationally and locally, Franklin is a two-time Frederick County Public Schools Teacher of the Year (2016, 2019–2020) and a finalist for Maryland Teacher of the Year. He is also an Amazon best-selling author for Changing the Game: How Teachers Enthusiastically Build Powerful Student Relationships and Amazing School Culture (2020).

Four-Time Olympian, Record-Breaking Discus Champion

Vikas Gowda, a Frederick High School graduate, is one of India’s most accomplished track and field athletes and a four-time Olympian. Born on July 5, 1983, in Mysore, Karnataka, India, Gowda moved to Frederick, Maryland, at age 6. Initially drawn to sprinting and jumping, he transitioned to the shot put and discus as he matured, displaying extraordinary talent in throwing events from a young age.

At Frederick High, Gowda dominated the state scene, winning seven Maryland state titles in shot put and discus. He set the state discus record in 2001 at 200’2”, a mark that still stands today. His achievements included a National Scholastic meet victory in discus, where he broke the meet record, and he earned recognition as Maryland Gatorade Track & Field Athlete of the Year and Track & Field News All-American in both shot put and discus.

Highly recruited, Gowda attended the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, where he majored in mathematics and continued his dominance in throwing events. He set school records in indoor shot put (64’3.75”) and discus (211’3”), earned multiple All-America honors, and was a four-time Atlantic Coast Conference champion. In 2006, he became the NCAA National Champion in discus, solidifying his place among collegiate track and field’s elite.

Gowda’s international career is equally distinguished. Holding dual citizenship in India and the United States, he represented India in four Olympic Games: 2004 (Athens), 2008 (Beijing), 2012 (London), and 2016 (Rio de Janeiro), with his best finish coming in London, where he placed eighth in the discus final. He set the Indian national discus record at 66.28 meters in 2012. He earned a silver medal at the 2010 Commonwealth Games and a historic gold in 2014, the first for an Indian male in athletics in 56 years. Gowda also claimed multiple gold medals at the Asian Championships and medaled at the Asian Games.

For his contributions to Indian athletics, Gowda received the Arjuna Award in 2014 and the Padma Shri, India’s fourth-highest civilian honor, in 2017. He retired from competition in 2018

Frederick Baseball Leader and Builder of Champions

Wayne Main, a lifelong Frederick resident, has spent more than three decades shaping the landscape of youth and high school baseball in the region. Main began his journey as a student-athlete at Thomas Johnson High School, playing baseball, golf, and soccer.

Main’s passion for coaching has left an indelible mark on Frederick County athletics. He began as head coach in the Frederick American Little League from 1986 to 2002, leading his teams to multiple championships, including Maryland State Little League District 2 titles and a 9-10 State Championship in 1998. In 2001, he founded the Frederick Hustlers Baseball program, which he has led as head coach ever since. Under his guidance, Hustlers teams achieved national recognition, including NABF National Runner-up (2002), Dizzy Dean World Series Champion (2004), NABF National High School Runner-up (2006), USA Baseball Wood Bat Cup Champion (2018), and Perfect Game Super 25 Champion (2019). 

He also has served as an assistant varsity coach at Thomas Johnson High School (2011–2013) and Middletown High School (2014–present), helping guide state championship teams and mentoring athletes at the highest levels of local high school competition. His dedication as a private hitting instructor has further developed players from ages 8 through college.

During his career, Main has coached more than 100 athletes who earned college baseball scholarships at institutions such as Old Dominion University, University of Pennsylvania, University of Maryland, Florida International University, West Virginia University, and Mount St. Mary’s University. Five of his players have gone on to professional baseball careers, including MLB AAA player Danny Smith.

In recognition of his coaching excellence, Wayne Main was named Maryland State Association of Baseball Coaches High School Assistant Coach of the Year in 2024. 

Lucas McCollum is one of Frederick County’s most accomplished multi-sport athletes, distinguished across high school, collegiate, professional, endurance, and elite cycling competition. A three-sport performer at Thomas Johnson High School, he played football, basketball, and baseball, earning First Team All-Gazette and First Team All-Area honors in 1997 and 1998 for baseball. McCollum continued his baseball career at Shepherd College, starting as a freshman pitcher in 1999, before earning First Team All-Conference recognition at Frederick Community College in 2000. He later received a full NCAA Division I scholarship to Jacksonville State University and went on to play professionally in the Southeastern Independent League, highlighted by an invitation to Seattle Mariners Spring Training in 2004.

After completing physical therapy assistant training, McCollum embarked on a remarkable endurance career. Between 2006 and 2013, he competed in more than 100 multisport events worldwide, earning age-group podiums at Ironman 70.3 races in Oceanside, St. Croix, Eagleman, and Savageman. He qualified for and competed in the Ironman World Championship in Kona in 2008, 2009, and 2013. In 2010, McCollum won multiple duathlon national titles, earning the No. 1 U.S. ranking in the 30–34 age group. His performances led to selection for Team USA at the ITU Long Course World Championship.

From 2014 to 2022, McCollum transitioned to competitive cycling, rapidly advancing to earn his USA Cycling Category 1 license in 2016. He captured victories at the Elkridge Spring Classic, Tour of Page County, and Tour of Washington County, and earned top finishes at the USA Cycling National Championship and the Green Mountain Stage Race. He also competed internationally at the Vuelta Costa Rica, where he claimed a stage points lead and a podium in the time trial.

Across every discipline, McCollum has demonstrated exceptional versatility, discipline, and competitive drive. 

Pioneering Advocate for Girls’ Softball in Frederick County

Barbara Taylor has been a force in girls’ softball and youth sports in Frederick County for more than four decades. In 1982, she played a pivotal role in founding the Frederick County Girls Fast Pitch Softball League (FCGSL). What began with just four teams has grown into a thriving county-wide league with more than 100 teams participating each spring and fall. Her work coincided with the post–Title IX expansion of opportunities for female athletes. Fast-pitch softball in Frederick County reflects this growth, largely due to Barbara’s vision and leadership.

She has devoted her life to advocating for equal opportunities for girls in sports. She has served as an unpaid volunteer on the Frederick County Parks and Recreation Commission for more than 20 years, including four years as chairwoman, helping to plan and develop parks such as Urbana Park, Urbana District Park, Utica District Park, and Old National Park. She was an assistant coach at Frederick Community College for three years and has coached teams in the county for over 35 years.

Taylor founded and continues to run the Araby softball program, which she revitalized in 2013, and created the Maryland Express travel softball program in 1997, now a successful organization with five teams. She has organized winter clinics for pitching, hitting, catching, and skill enhancement, built indoor facilities on her property for free use by local youth, and donated countless hours, equipment, and registration support to ensure participation is accessible to all girls.

Beyond coaching, she has helped secure government grants to improve facilities at Araby Park, Carroll Manor Elementary, Urbana Elementary, and Urbana High School. She maintained league records for 20 years, started the Fall Softball League in 1997, and continues to serve on the planning committee for Frederick County Girls All-Star Games.

Her dedication has created opportunities for generations of young athletes, including her five daughters, three of whom became top collegiate pitchers.