This story could focus on this player’s documented kindness by retelling tales of hospital visits, philanthropy, or even his overall positive attitude and dedication to uplifting others, often to those in need. Or his family. Three children with a wife… Continue Reading
Athletic coaches can often trace the lineage of their development with other coaches-as-mentors. Sue Sinclair’s thirty-year-run as head volleyball coach at Illinois Central College stands on the shoulders of two legendary coaches. Debbie Hunter coached Sinclair during her playing career… Continue Reading
This episode spotlights a legacy built on personal loss as a foundation toward building community. In March of 1999, 11-year old Julius De Loatche was killed in a tragic house fire. His family, led by Julius’ father, the Reverend James… Continue Reading
Let’s begin with a quick word-association. When I say “pizza,” you think . . . cheesy . . . or hot . . . or yummy. When I say “Malnati’s,” . . . you probably answer . . . “Pizza.”… Continue Reading
Photo: Jim Mattson, 27 Nov 2013. Wayne and Sergio McClain are two of the most prominent athletes in recent central Illinois history. This episode reflects the roles that legacy and community play in our engagement with sports. Wayne McClain coached… Continue Reading
Every athlete faces conflicting adages: On the one hand, “they don’t ask how, they ask how many.” On the other hand, “it’s not whether you win or lose, it’s how you play the game.” Pekin, Illinois’ native son, D. A.… Continue Reading
Most coaches know that somewhere along the way, they are going to get fired, or resign. Although not as certain as death and taxes, change is likely. Southern Illinois University head basketball coach Cindy Stein is no exception. Peoria native,… Continue Reading
For Doug Collins, accomplishing things first must be second nature. Collins’ Illinois State University career took place under the leadership of legendary coach Will Robinson, the first African American head coach in Division I men’s basketball. With Robinson and Collins… Continue Reading
This episode features a storybook tale waiting for a glorious final chapter. Golfer Steve Stricker was player of the year at the University of Illinois in nineteen eighty-eight and eighty-nine, and was elected to the U OF I’s Athletic Hall… Continue Reading
Often, Stories Beyond the Scores takes you off the fields and courts. The competitive, in-game, exploits of Henry (Hank) Irving Thomas, Jr., were simply…adequate. Across three seasons and 65 Bradley University basketball games, Hank Thomas averaged fewer than two points, two… Continue Reading
