Fred Burgee was an all-around prep school athlete who achieved All American status as a football lineman for Western Maryland College, and was an Interstate All-League selection with the champion Frederick Falcons. After college, Burgee continued his involvement in athletics, coaching football, basketball, and tennis at Frederick High School. He started varsity wrestling at Thomas Johnson and Frederick High Schools, winning several county and league championships. A courageous competitor, he was considered by many to be the most remarkable sports figure in county history; he possessed those qualities that heroes are made of.