Manchester recognizes athletic standouts
 NEW
FRANKLIN — While the Manchester High School football
team, band, shown below, and cheerleaders, shown at
right, always hold center court when playing in front
of the home faithful, they shared the spotlight at halftime
with the 2006 inductees of the Swede Olsson-Jim France
Athletic Hall of Fame at halftime of Manchester’s
Sept. 1, 47-0 thrashing of Waterloo High School.
Shown above, from left, honorary inductee Donald Cope and former Manchester athletic standouts J.W. Robinson, Courtney Skidmore and Jack Meyer, are recognized for their induction into the hall that partly takes its name from Manchester football coach and high school Principal Jim France.
“Every person who’s been inducted into the Hall of Fame represents the athletic program,” France said. “I’m proud of all the kids. It’s really nice. You feel like maybe you’ve had a little bit to do with the heights they’ve reached.”
Cope was this year’s honorary inductee, recognized for his 50-plus years of service to the community of New Franklin and the Manchester Local Schools District, which includes the founding and operation of Cope Pharmacy and seven years of service on the Manchester Board of Education.
Robinson, a 1998 graduate of Manchester, was recognized for his seven total years of varsity experience in wrestling and football, having won numerous awards and distinctions during his career.
Skidmore, a 1988 graduate, was
inducted for her nine years of varsity experience as
a standout volleyball, softball and basketball player,
which also included numerous
team and state awards.
Meyer, a 1965 graduate, received his distinction for his accomplishments as a four-year varsity basketball player, having been named to several all-league and county teams.
“It’s a special thing,”
France said of being inducted. “It represents
the best of the best from our school.” —
By Mike D’Agruma
Editor’s note: For more
on the Manchester vs. Waterloo football game, see Page
8.
Photos: Fred Durr
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