This page is in recognition of past players of Francis Howell High School who had exemplary careers at Francis Howell and beyond. They deserve recognition for their accomplishments during their time at Francis Howell High School. We are honored that they attended our school and commend them for their perseverance while in attendance of the school and beyond.
Pictured front row left to right: Roger Hodapp, Brock Schaefer, Steve Eberhardt, Darin Cissell, Ryan Edwards, Dale Stevener, Terry Kasper, Grant Scharnhorst Jr., Jerry Burbes, Kent Keiser, and Todd Joerling.
Back row left to right: Josh Kohrs, Nick Wilfong, Ben Walker, Kevin Sahrmann, Andy Walker, Paul James, Mike Stevener, and Chad Thorpe.
CLASS OF 2013
JAMES ALLEN
James Allen graduated from Francis Howell in 2008. He was a 3 year starter for the varsity, spending most of the time at shortstop until his senior year when he concentrated on pitching. He was the ace of the staff that earned a 2nd place finish in state in 2008. He earned the win in the semi final against SLUH in relief.
After graduating James accepted a scholarship to play baseball at Kansas State. He had a phenomenal career there and was an All American there. He left the school with the career saves record for them. After his Junior year he was drafted by the Cinncinati Reds and is still pitching in thier minor leagues at this time.
In 2007 James was 1st team All Conference, 2nd Team All Metro, and 2nd Team All State. His senior year he was the MVP of the Midwest Classic, 1st Team All Conference, 1st Team All metro, 1st Team All State and was named a 2nd Team All American. As of 2013 in our school records he ranks 5th in Batting Average for a career at .436, 5th in Assists for a season at 60, and 9th in At Bats in a season with 107.
CLASS OF 2013
PRESTON ALDRIDGE
Preston Aldridge graduated from Francis Howell in 2008. He spent part of his freshmen year on the varsity and 3 full seasons on the varsity. The 2008 team finished 2nd in the State. In the Semi final game Preston homered and doubled and then early in the championship game he had to be carried off the field as he tore his hamstring going back on a ball in centerfield at Drury University in Springfield. He had to be carried off the field and was a major blow to the Vikings hopes of winning the State Championship.
In 2006 Preston was 1st Team All conference, and 2nd Team All State and All Metro. In 2007 he was 1st Team All Conference as well as being Co-Player of they year with Tim Melville. He was also 1st Team All Metro and All State. Preston was also an Honorable Mention All American that year. In 2008 he was on the All Tournament team for the Midwest Classic, 1st Team All Conference, All Metro, and All State. Preston Aldridge was a High School All American 1st Teamer in 2008.
Preston has left his name in numerous places in our school records and also in the state record books. As of 2013 he is 1st in Saves in a career with 7, 2nd in saves in a season with 4, intentional walks with 3, 3rd in Walks in a career with 37, Home runs in a career with 16, Home runs in a season with 6 and Batting average in a season with a .495 average. He is 4th in Batting averave for a career at .442, triples in a season with 3, triples in a career with 7, and sacrifices with 8. Preston is 5th in hits for a career at 121, RBI's in a career at 91, and runs scored career with 80. Preston is 6th in on base perscentage at .513, and home runs in a season at 6. He is also 11th in hits for a season with 42.
CLASS OF 2017
TIM AVANTS
Tim Avants graduated from high school in 2005 from Francis Howell. Tim was a part of a very talented 2005 class, many of his teammates have already been inducted into the hall of fame. Early on as a sophomore on the varsity team, he saw most of his action as a pinch runner. Later in his sophomore season, he had the opportunity to play and start in games. His best action came late in the season when he had a bunt base hit to win the Sectional playoff game bringing home his brother, Dan Avants, to win the game.
The 2003 team later went on to win the state championship where Tim hit a ball off the plate and was athletic enough to beat it out with his lightning speed. Tim was selected 1st team All State, All Conference, and All Metro throughout his career. Tim was a tri-sport athlete playing football and basketball along with baseball. Tim was awarded the U.S. Army Reserve National Scholar Athlete Award in 2005.
After high school, Tim accepted a scholarship to play for Northwest Missouri State, a division II baseball school. Tim now resides in Chicago, IL where he teaches high school and is currently enrolled in graduate school to finish his MBA.
Roger Banze graduated from Francis Howell in 1965. He was probably one of the hardest throwers to ever come out of our school and the St. Louis area. He was a mid 90's guy that was drafted out of High School. He was drafted by the Pittsburgh Pirates and spent 5 years in their minor league organization. There is a story of Roger and Nolan Ryan hooking up in the minors. Later in Roger's career he suffered an arm injury that ended his playing days.
After his playing days were over, like most quality baseball people, he turned to coaching where his grass roots were. He coached for 4 years for the C&H legion team. During his tenure as a coach, C&H won 2 state championships. During this time he also coached in the Metro Collegiate League for 2 years. Players of this era can only imagine the blazing fastball of Roger Banze.
Gary Barklage graduated from Francis Howell in 1977. Gary was inducted into our Hall of Fame in 2005. He was a 3 year varsity starter for head coach Jerry Burbes. During his illusturous career he accomplished many feats.
In 1976 he was an All Conference, as well as All District shortstop. During his summers of he played with Post 313 American Legion team ,where he was named the MVP of the league in 1976. He had a great '77 year as he was named All Conference shortstop and was an All District pitcher. That year he was 4-0 and had a 1.06 era. He was also a career .400 hitter.
After his High School days he played with C&H's EMBA team for 10 years. He spent his last 12 years of playing in the fast pitch league where he played for St. Charles Lanes.
Austin Buenemann graduated in 2008 from Francis Howell. Most of his games were played pitching or playing in the outfield. He pitched a complete game shutout in the district finals and hit a home run in both that game and in the sectionals. He pitched another shutout 3 days later to advance to the final four. He pitched in 5 of the 6 shutouts that spring.
Austin is in the record books as #4 with an ERA of 0.93 in 2008 and #1 for 17 consecutive innings pitched without allowing a run. He was the starting pitcher of the State Championship game in 2008 where the Vikings took second after losing 3-2 to Ozark.
Austin was a member of the All Academic Team, 1st Team All State, and 2nd team All GAC. He graduated from Mizzou with a degree in finance and is currently living in Trenton, MO. Austin and his wife Molly are expecting their first child in September. Austin was not able to attend the ceremony due to their expected child but both his parents were there to represent him. On a side note, his mom should go into the Hall of Fame as the best pacer in Howell history.
Brian Burbes entered the Francis Howell Baseball Hall of Fame in 2012. He becomes the 2nd father son duo to be inducted into the Hall of Fame. He graduated from Francis Howell High School in 1991.
Brian was a 3 year varsity starter for the Vikings being a left handed pitcher. During his 3 years on the Varsity, 1989, 1990, and 1991 the Vikings were Gateway Athletic Champions all 3 years. The 1991 team were also District Champions and that team made it to the final four where they finished second in the Class 4A Championship series. The 1991 trip to the final four was only the second trip for the Vikings there. Ironically they last time the Vikings were there was 1963 which his dad, Jerry, was a player on. The sectional game in 1991 Brian started the game and then was lifted and then the rains came, a couple of days later play was resumed and Brian earned not only the win but was reentered and earned the save as well. Don't see that one happen too often. He was also the winning pitchers verse CBC in the State Semi-Final game.
Brian was know for his sweet pick off move. Through his junior and senior year of High School ball and legion ball with Daniel Boone his father shared that he picked off 45 base runners. He played for the Daniel Boone Legion team for 4 years. Brian was also a football and a wrestler at Howell for the 4 years that he was there. After High School he attended and played baseball at Rend Lake for one season.
Danny Johnson was at the event to help welcome Brian into the Hall of Fame as he was the other lefty that got us to that final four. Chris Daley the catcher for both of them also showed up for the event. A lot of memories were rehashed. Brian has been married to his wife DeeDee for nine years.
Jerry Burbes graduated from Francis Howell in 1964. Jerry was a four year starter on the Viking baseball team from 1961-1964. He played second base and shortstop. Their team record was 34-7. In 1963 their team advanced to the Final Four. This was the first Francis Howell team in any sport to advance to a State Championship. Jerry was the leadoff batter, averaging .300 plus all four years. He stole 40 bases in his career and was never thrown out. Jerry was also a three year starter in basketball at Francis Howell.
Jerry graduated from the University of Missouri, where he played third base his freshman year. He returned to Francis Howell in the fall of 1968 where he was a volunteer coach for the Vikings under Ken Dyson in the spring of 1969. He became the head baseball coach in 1970, coaching the Vikings to a Conference Title in 1971.
Jerry went into the Army from June 1971 to May 1973. He then coached Viking baseball teams from 1973 to 1981. His ten year coaching record was 126-76 with six Conference Titles, three District Championships, and two Sectional Finals appearances.
Jerry became Francis Howell High School's Athletic Director in 1976. He retired from coaching in 1981 due to the demands of the activities position. In 1987 he was appointed as the District Activities Director. Jerry retired in 1998 as Associate Superintendent of Student Services.
Jerry managed the first two Daniel Boone Legion teams in 1990 and 1991. He later assisted the program in 1993-1995.
Jerry has been married for 31 years to Connie Rauch Burbes. They have four children, Brian (30), Craig (26), Carrie (23), and Matt (22). Brian was the winning pitcher in the semi final game of the 1991 Final Four team. Craig was a pitcher for the 1993 Final Four team.
Darin Cissell graduated from Howell in 1993. He and Chad Thorpe are the only 2 players that we are aware of that played in 2 final fours, in 1991 and 1993. During his prep career he was a 1st Team All Conference player as well as a 1st Team All metro player. He proceeded his playing days with Howell at Meramec Juco where he played in 2 Junior College World Series. From there accepted a scholarship to St. Louis University where he starred. He had a nasty ankle break his last game at SLU, but it did not turn the professional leagues away.
The San Francisco Giants drafted him in the 18th round and he spent a couple of years in their organization. After 13 surgeries his playing days are over. He recently accepted a teaching position in the Howell district and teaches PE and Health at Bryan Middle School. Darin is an assistant coach in our program and the experience that he brings to our program is invaluable. Coach Cissell is married to Amy.
Cleat Davis graduated from Francis Howell in 1997. Cleat was one of the smoothest lefties to ever come through the program. He holds several pitching records for the program. He was a guy that you could pretty much count on getting 5 plus innings and striking out 10. He holds the season strike out record at 105, as well as the career K's with 161. He hogs the complete game records as well. In '97 he threw 7 complete games and had 12 in his career.
In 1997 Cleat was the ace of the staff that made it to the state championship game. He got the nod in the semi-final game and pitched one of the best games in Howell history. It was against SLUH and he matched up against a tough rightie by the name of Parker. The Vikings won the game in 9 innings, 2-1. Cleat pitched the complete game victory. He was named first team all conference, first team, all metro, and first team all state. He was also selected to throw in the Senior All Star game.
Cleat attempted to continue his career at St. Charles Community College but things did not work out for him.
STEVEN DIEL
Steven was primarily a starter but also threw in relief when needed. He still holds many records in the Howell baseball program including 3rd in pitching wins in a season with 8, 3rd in pitching wins over his career with 16, 5th in appearances with 15 and 2nd in appearances over his career with 38. He was dominant in 5 relief appearances in the 2011 State Championship game in Springfield, MO. He is the 5th member of our State championship 2011 class to enter into our Francis Howell Baseball Hall of Fame.
Upon graduating from Francis Howell, Steven attended Jefferson College for two years. During his first year at Jeff Co, Steven helped his team to the Junior College World Series where they finished 4th in the nation. After completing his career at Jeff Co, Steven transferred and joined his Howell teammates Brett Graves, Case Munson, Jake Ivory & Brett Peel on the Mizzou Baseball team. Steven redshirted his first season at Mizzou and then ultimately decided to end his baseball career to pursue his degree in Fisheries and Wildlife Sciences.
Steven currently lives in O’Fallon, MO with his wife Claudia and two dogs, Remi & Hank. They are expecting their first child in September. Some of Steven’s best memories and friends were those he made during his time as a member of the Francis Howell baseball program.
Eli Dilday transferred to Howell his Junior year where he helped the Vikings win a 2013 State Championship. Eli was first team all-state and honorable mention all-American his junior year and broke the Howell double record. In 2014, as a Senior, Eli played for another State Title but came in as the runner up. He made first team all-state, first team all-american and broke his own double record in 2014. He also homered in both the 2013 and 2014 state final games. Eli is one of the few players who had the honor of playing alongside all four of the Perkins brothers in his time at Howell.
Here is where Eli ranks on our schools record lists. Remember that he put these number in only 2 years of participation. 10th in for Batting average in a season at .450, 6th place in Career with a .441 average. 10th place in On Bae in a season and 8th place in career. Eli is tied for 2nd place in Hits in season wth fellow inductee Nic Perkins with 58. He is also 7th and tied with Case Munson, career he is 10th. RBI's in a season he is 6th tied with Justin Perkins and Daltaon Grantham. Runs scored in a season he tied for 1st with Justin Perkins with 54, career he is 7th. Home runs in a season he is 4th tied with Josh Golliver and career he is 4th with 14. Triples in a season he is 5th tied with 7 guys. Doubles he is 1st and 2nd with with 19 and 17, career he is 2nd with 36. Stolen bases in a season he 9th tied with Kyle Grantham and Dwayne Daggs.
After high School, Eli went on a baseball scholarship to the University of Nebraska where he played for two years before transferring to Central Missouri where he finished his athletic and academic career. Eli received a degree in Marketing from UCM in 2018. He still goes over to the Perkins household whenever he is in town to talk about the good ole days of Howell Baseball.
Steven Eberhardt graduated in 2001. He was called up as a sophomore to play varsity ball. He was part of the State Final Four team in 1999. His accomplishments that year were 1ST Team All GAC, 2ND Team All Metro, and 2ND Team All State. His junior year he was named 1ST Team All GAC, and Honorable Mention All Metro. He Finished his career with another 1ST Team All GAC, 1ST Team All Metro, and 1ST Team All State. Steve may be the only player in Howell's history to earn first team all conference 3 years in a row. He left Howell with two records witch are hits for a career and is currently the holder for hits in a season with 43 (tied with Greg Rodgers). He was also fortunate to play in the senior High School All-Star game in 2001.
Some other accomplishments
outside his high school career where he was a 4-year 1ST Team All Star for
the Daniel Boone Legion team. He was also on a select team picked by Tony
Perkins, Gary Dunahue, and Peter Eberhardt Jr. to go to Hawaii and play
ball. Along with several Howell players, two from Howell North, and one
player from Lafayette, a tournament which they won. In the fall of 2001
he attended Lewis and Clark Community College in Alton, Illinois. He played
in the fall, but when the spring season rolled around he was diagnosed with
tendinitis in his right knee witch kept him from playing that year. He now
continues his education at Saint Charles Community College and is currently
working on his Associates Degree in Education. He is the current manager
for the Daniel Boone Jr. Legion team and plans to be the manager for a while.
Ryan Edwards graduated from Francis Howell in 1995. During his prep career he played in 1 final four and a quarter final game. In 1993 as a sophomore he got the start on the hill for the Vikings in the 3rd place game and earned the victory. In 1995 he had the honor of possibly throwing the only perfect game in Howells history. He won that game 1-0 against Wentzville. He also twirled a couple other no hitters while at Howell. Ryan earned 1st team All Conference, 1st team All Metro, and 1st team All State honors during his High School career. He was also selected to play in the Missouri Senior All Star game in 1995 and threw in that game at the University of Missouri.
Ryan was also the starting quarterback on the football team. He currently holds 2 records of our program. In 1994 he had an eye popping earned run average of .30. The career earned run average record is also Ryan's, as he posted a .88 career era.
Shortly after graduating Ryan hurt his arm and after 2 surgeries never fully recovered. He earned a scholarship to Meramec Junior College where he competed and after his career there continued his career at Southern Illinois University at Edwardsville. Currently Ryan is finishing up his degree at the University of Phoenix. He is also engaged and scheduled to be married to fiance Toni, in the spring of 2004.
Greg graduated from Francis Howell in 1987 and was a three year starter for the Vikings at the varsity level. He was second team all conference shortstop as a sophomore and first team all conference third basemen as a senior. During the summer, Greg played for the C&H American Legion Team. Upon graduating, Greg attended Southwest Missouri State and played baseball for four years where he earned All MCC First Team and tournament team in 1990.
Joe Faron attended Francis Howell High School and played baseball from 1978-1981. In his Senior year on a team that finished with a 19-5 record, the team won the Gateway Athletic Conference Title and were also District Nine champions. Joe was voted Co-MVP by his teammates and also selected as a first team All Conference player in the GAC. After high schook, he continued his baseball career at Mineral Area Junior College, where he received his Associate of Arts Degree. He then transferred to Southwest Missouri State, which is now Missouri State, where he finished up his playing days. He Graduated from SMS and has a Bachelor's degree in Finance.
Jeff Fincham graduated from Francis Howell in 1991. Jeff was inducted into the Hall of Fame in 2012. He was a 2 year varsity starter at second base for head coach Terry Kasper. During his years as a starter he helps lead the Vikings to Gateway Athletic Conference Champions in 1990 and 1991. The 1991 team were district champions and that team made it the Final Four finishing second place in Class 4A Championship. Jeff, as co-captain, helped lead the Vikings to state for the first time in 28years.
Jeff's illustrious career accomplished many feats and still holds the single
season record for most sacrifice bunts. Jeff played the game as the ultimate
throw back player with every pitch and game on the line. There were not
many players in Francis Howells history that played the game harder than
Jeff Fincham. He was also at an advantage as he was a swith hitter. Jeff
went on to play at Rend Lake Junior college for one season. Also, he played
for Daniel Boone American Legion. Jeff finished is college career at the
University of North Carolina at Charlotte.
Jeff now resides back in St. Charles and works in the Sales and Management
field.
Kyle Grantham is a 2017 graduate of Francis Howell and a 2022 inductee into the Hall of Fame. He spent two years on varsity and was a part of the 2016 State Championship team. He played in the outfield for his two seasons on varsity, hitting at the top of the lineup. The highlight of his career was hitting two solo home runs in the 2016 state semi-final game to move on to the championship, which he had two bunt hits. Classic Francis Howell baseball. During his time at Howell, Kyle received All Conference, All Metro, All State and All American Honors. Kyle is one of three Grantham brothers to play at Howell, with brother Ryan a 2015 graduate and Dalton a 2019 graduate.
Kyle is etched all over our Francis Howell Baseball Records. 1st in Batting average for a season at .523 and 8th with a .465 BA. 1st in Batting average for a career with a .496. Kyle is 6th in On Base Percentage with a .595 and 10th with a .531. He is 3rd in On Base in a career with a .558., 2nd in Hits in a season with 60 and 5th with 56 tied with Brendand Trimble. Kyle is 7th in Hits in a career wiith 116. At Bats in a season he is 5th with 129 tied with Zac Perkins and Eli Dilday and 21st with 107 tied with James Allen, Jake Ivory, and Brady Wildschuetz, Kyle is 5th in Runs scored in a season with 47 tied with Matt Schark and 11th with 37 tied with Nic Perkins and Justin Perkins. He is 10th in Runs scored in a career with 84. 5th in Triples in a season tied with Brett Peel, Clalvin Munson, Sam Maddox, Brady Hultman, and Jake McCutcheon., 3rd in Triples in a career with 10. Doubles in a season he is 6th with 13 and career is 8th with 24 tied with Jake McCutcheon. 11th in Stolen Bases with 16 tied with Eli Dilday, Dwayne Daggs, and Jake McCutcheon. Walks in a season he is 11th tied with Nate Orf, Ben Cook, Nick Perkins, and brother Dalton Grantham. Kyle is 6th with 6 Sacrifices tied with Matt Riffee, Joey Land, and Brady Wildchuetz.
After graduation, Kyle spent a short time as a walk-on at Mizzou before hanging it up. He later graduated from Mizzou with future career plans undecided.
Class of 2016
Brett Graves is the son of Scott and Mary Graves. He is a graduate of the 2011 team that went 32-3 and were state champions. When he graduated he left with a ton of records. Besides at one time owning our career hit record he was the ace of our staff. When he was not dealing on the mound he played shortstop and first base for the Vikings. #5 was a 3 years starter for the Vikings. He accepted a scholarship to play at the University of Missouri and was drafted by the Oakland A's after his junior year and entered into the minors where he is currently still pitching for the Stockton Ports.
Here is where he sits on our records page in our hitting categories: Brett is second in career hits with 137, career average .455.and career runs 116. He is 3rd in OBA career .547. and singles in career 97. Brett is 4th in season average with a .477.doubles in a career 29, HBP in career 17, and walks in a career. He is 5th in hits in a season 52, triples in a season 3, and stolen bases for his career with 42. Brett is 6th in runs in a season 45, home runs in a season 6, doubles in a son with 12, and stolen bases in a season 19. He is 9th in runs in a season 40, and walks in a season with 15, 11th in at bats in a season 111, 13th in season average .444.
Here is where Brett sits on our pitching records: 2nd in wins for a season with 9 and career starts with 24. He is also 4th in wins for a career with 15 and appearances for his career with 32. Defensively he appears on our record page as well as he is 3rd with assists in a career with 173, 4th with assists in a season, and 11th in assists in a season with 54.
Brett was All Conference and All Academic numerous years as well as All Metro. He was the player of the year in St. Louis and was an All American. He was the Player of the Year in the Conference and had the ultimate honor of being named the Gatorade Player of the Year. Brett was recently married to his high school sweetheart Maddie. The wedding had quite a baseball representation especially from the 2011 team.
Zack Gronek graduated from Francis Howell in 2008. He was a two year starting pitcher with an 11-1 record in those two years. As the ace and workhorse of the staff in his senior year, Zack compiled an 8-0 record with a 2.21 ERA and four complet games in seven starts. He pitched a team high 50 2/3 innings with 33 strikeouts and 14 walks. He was the winning pitcher in the state final four semi final game for the team that finished 2nd in state in 2008.
After gdraduating, Zack went on to become the most decorated pitcher in the history of the Missouri University of Science and Technology baseball program. He finished his D-2 college career with a record of 26-10 while setting 12 team pitching records, including wins, innings pitched, and strikeouts.
Missouri S&T has won a total of three post season games in their history. Gronek was the winning pitcher in each of those contests, including their only NCAA victory. In that game, Zack threw a five hit shutout with seven strikeouts in a 2-0 victory over defending national champion Southern Indiana.
In 2008, Gronek received 1st team All State honors as well as being named to the GAC All-Academic team. In college, Zack ws awarded 1st team All FLVC and All Region honors twice each.
After serving one year as a student assistant on the Missouri S&T coaching staff, Gronek graduated with a degree in Mechanical Engineering.
Buck Hachmann graduated from Francis Howell in 1964. He was the ace of the staff that went to the final four in 1963. He was a hard throwing lefty that could be counted on going out getting a W for the Vikings. The most memorable experience that he had was the 1963 season where the team was able to place in the top four schools in Missouri. In those days there were not any classifications and all schools that participated in baseball where in one state tournament, where one team would prevail in the state. He was very proud of what the team was able to accomplish that year.
Buck would like to mention their head coach, Ron Leonard. Baseball was not Coach Leonards preferable sport, but he had very good coaching instincts. He was an individual that never over coached his team, but allowed the team to play with their natural ability, without pressure. Buck was proud of his coach and his team. When they needed a hit, a strikeout, a home run or a stolen base, they were able to accomplish the task and always at the right time. In places where they did not have the talent, they had the desire and that was always enough encouragement to go around from the whole team! They had a lot of fun and created great memories for their whole lives.
After High School, Buck went to Southeast Missouri State. He won the MVP award in 1966 and 1968. '68 was his final year and his best as he finished the year with a 7-0 record. He had plans in continuing his baseball career and had several offers until he was drafted by the US army and ended his dream. Those are the things that he is thankful for, the good years of friends, fun, and the memories that baseball provided.
Chris Harrison graduated from Francis Howell in 1992. He was a 2 year varsity starter at 3rd base and helped the Vikings to a 2nd place finish in the 1991 state championships. He currently is tied for second in stolen bases druing a season, with 29, set in 1991, which stood for 21 years until broken in 2013. Along with stolen bases in a season, he is tied for 3rd for stolen bases in a career with 44 (1991-92). He is also tied for 10th for runs scored in a season with 35 (1991). In 1992 Chris was a recipient of the Bill Todd Scholarship Award.
After high school Chris went on to play baseball at Lindenwood University in St. Charles, Mo. He graduated from Lindenwood University in 1997 with his Bachelors Degree in Marketing and later in 2002 with his Masters of Arts in Teaching in Business Education. He is currently working toward his Doctorate in Curriculum Design and Instruction.
Chris has been teaching Business Education for 12 years between Collinsville and Grdanite City High Schools. He has been coaching baseball for 11 years and is the Head Pitching Coach at Granite City High School. He has been married to his wife, Ginger, for 18 years.
Roger Hodapp did not play baseball at Francis Howell. Mr. Hodapp was the activities director at Francis Howell and retired in 2001. Before becoming the activities director Coach Hodapp was the wrestling coach at the school where he led the program to state championships and established the program as one of the best in the Midwest.
The work that Mr. Hodapp sunk into our baseball program needs to be recognized. The setting up of scheduling and coordinating our program takes a lot of time. The rescheduling of games due to rain is a major job. Making sure umpires are there is an ever day problem. Roger hosted the baseball districts at C&H every year that he was there except for once. He always conducted a first class event. Jan Ellis, his secretary, was a major help in these endeavors as well. The program progressed during his tenure with the addition of games, quality scheduling (which is one of the toughest in the state), quality of uniforms, and class of the program. He helped in establishing the Midwest Classic Tournament that is one of the most elite Tournaments in the state.
His help in post season appearances is unprecedented. The support he gave the teams was outstanding. He always strived to host games and people love to come to C&H. During Final Fours Roger went above and beyond his duties as he rented vans and drove seniors back for their graduation ceremony. After the seniors graduated he drove them back to Columbia to complete their final four competitions. Parents, players, and coaches sure did appreciate, Roger Hodapp.
Michael Hopkins graduated in 2005 from Francis Howell. He is one of the few 4 year varsity players that the program has ever had. His first at bat of his career he joined his brother, Blake, in the starting line up. Max Scherzer (MLB Pitcher), promptly hit him to welcome him to varsity ball. He caught, played right field, and even some 1st base during his 4 years at Howell. He was one of the many reasons that allowed the Vikings to win a state championship in 2003.
He is etched the Francis Howell Record books many times. As of 2010, he is 4th in on base average for a career at .514, 3rd in hits for a career at 122, 3rd in at bats for a career with 314, 3rd runs scored for a career at 80, 3rd in double for a career at 27, 2nd in singles in a career with 91, 3rd in total bases for a career with 161, tied for 6th in walks in a season at 15, 1st in walks for a career at 43, 1st in games played at 113, 2nd in consecutive starts at 108, 6th in career putouts at 344. Besides being a baseball player he also started on the football team and had a cumulative 3.9 GPA where he was also a member of the National Honor Society. Michael was honorable mention all state as a freshman in 2002. He was a first team all state and all metro in his senior season in 2005.
Following his career at Francis Howell he plyated at Central Missouri State, Forest Park Community College, and his last 2 years were at Southern Illinois-Edwardsville. While in college he was also an excellent student. In 2007 he was named the student-athlete of the year at Forest Park, also that year he earned All-American honors.
Garrett Huster graduated from Francis Howell in 1991. Garrett was inducted into the hall of fame in 2014. Garrett was said to be a hit on the baseball diamond when he was interviewed for the 'Athlete of the Week" spot in the St. Charles County Journal; his senior year.
He was a two year starter at first base. As a varsity first baseman batting third, he helped the Viking to 2 Gateway Athletic Conference championships in 1990 and 1991. The 1991 Vikings were district champions and that year made it to the final four finishing in second place in the class 4A championship game in Columbia, Missouri.
Batting third, Garrett was know to be a picky batter that rarely struck out and could constantly put the ball in play. Garrett led the league in triples and never finished a season batting under .400, including legion ball. Assistant Coach Perkins had to get as far away from the 1st base line as he could when Garrett was hitting as he was a prime target for the sluggers foul ball lazers.
At first base Garrett would do whatever it took to make sure the ball never got past him. Using his body as a back stop or going out into a full split to catch the ball. All the infielders knew if they got the ball close to Garrett he would catch it.
Garrett has 3 children and has been married to Lisa for 10 years.
CLASS OF 2016
JAKE IVORY
Jake Ivory was a 3 year varsity starter for Francis Howell and graduated in 2011. He is the son of Jeff and Julie Ivory. He mainly cruised in centerfield his last few years and caught a little bit as a sophomore. He also was an asset as a closer off the mound as well. He batted in the 3 hole for our state championship team in 2011 that finished 32-3.
He has many school records which we will list as well as being in the state record book as well. He is 1st in career sacs with 19. Jake is second in sacs in a season with 9. He is 4th in four different places, RBI's in a season 48, Career runs scored 99, triples in a season with 4, and doubles in a season with 14. Jake is 5th in runs scored in a season with 7 and runs scored in a season with 46 and RBI in career with 105. He is 6th in doubles for a career with 25 and total bases for a career with 172. Jake is 7th in stolen bases in a season with 18 and 8th in career hits with 110. Jake is 9th in RBI's for a season his junior year with 42. He is 10th in career average at .403 and also hits in a season with 47. He is 14th with runs in a season with 33 and 151th in hits in a season with 42.
Jake was and All Conference, All Metro, and All State player during his High School career. He was also mentioned in the All American teams. Jake accepted a scholarship to play baseball at the University of Missouri after high school and played 4 years for the Tigers playing some outfield and catching a little bit for them. He is currently and academic advisor for the Univervisty of Missouri athletes.
Paul James attended FHHS from 1979- 1982. During that time Paul played three years of varsity baseball as pitcher and shortstop. He received All-Conference recognition all three seasons and received All-District recognition his senior year as a shortstop. In Paul's sophomore, junior and senior years the Vikings were District Champions. They made the quarterfinals in his junior and senior years.
Paul also participated in football as a quarterback, playing on the varsity team for three seasons. Paul earned All-Conference recognition his junior and senior years. In 1982 he was offered a full athletic football scholarship to Central Missouri State University.
In addition to his Francis Howell career, Paul played American Legion Baseball for five seasons. In 1983, the C&H team won the Missouri State Championship with a record of 52-8. During this year, the team set the state homerun record. Paul had 10. In addition, Paul went 12-3 that year wile strking out 187 batters in 121 innings. He was a 5-time District 9 All-Star and earned the Fred Noelle Award as "outstanding athlete" in 1982.
To focus on baseball, Paul rescinded his National Football letter intent. To avoid sitting out a year Paul attended a Junior College in St. Louis in 1983-84, where he attained 1st Team Midwest Conference and Honorable Mention, All-American honors. Paul continued his collegiate career at the University of Missouri-Columbia where he received All-Big Eight recognition as a starting pitcher.
In the summer months, Paul played for the Metro Collegiate and EMBA leagues where he was named a Metro All-Star in 1984 and became a starting pitcher against the 1984 Olympic team. In this game, Paul became the first pitcher ever to face Mark McGwire in Busch Stadium.
In 1984 Paul was an alternate as a pitcher for the USA Olympic team. From 1983-1985, Paul was selected in the professionally baseball draft five times and ultimately signed with the Texas Rangers in the 5th round of the 1985 June draft. He pitched in the Texas organization from 1985-1987 until an arm injury ended his career. He has been instrumental in helping the players in the Francis Howell program since his graduation. His experience is extremely beneficial to our young players.
Paul is married to Susan, and they have two daughters, Kelsey and Katie and a son Mathew. The couple is also expecting a baby boy in April. Paul is currently a Vice President with Green Point Financial, where he began working in 1993.
Todd Joerling graduated from Francis Howell in 1981. During his High School days he earned varsity letters in 3 sports in both his junior and senior year. His football achievements included All-Conference recognition as a defensive end his junior year, and All-Conference recognition as a tight end as well as All-District and All-Metro recognition as a defensive end his senior year. Todd also played in the All-State football game in Jefferson City his senior season. In basketball, Todd received All-Conference recognition his junior and senior years.
During Todd's baseball career, he earned All-Conference, All-District, and All-Metro recognition with a 9-0 career record as a pitcher. His senior year, Todd was named the 1981 Francis Howell High School Post-Dispatch Scholar Athlete. During the summer months through High School and then College, Todd played for St. Peters and C&H legion teams and in the C&H Metro-Collegiate League. Todd attended and played baseball for Southwest Missouri State University for four years. He is another guy that came back home and volunteered his time to coach our legion teams.
Since 1986 Todd has been playing slow pitch softball at the professional level. His teams have won 12 national titles. He personally has received 22 All World honors, 3 MVP's, 6 batting titles, 2 gold gloves(as a shortstop), and 1 Homer Run title. Todd was inducted into the National Softball Association Hall of Fame in 2001. He was inducted into the St. Louis Softball Hall of Fame in 2002. Coach Kasper once said, "You cannot earn any money playing slow pitch softball." Todd proved him wrong.
Todd is married to Brandee (Haller), and they have 2 children, twins Darby and Trevor (5 years old). Their family resides in New Melle and Todd works for Joerling Brothers Trucking. He is also a promotions representative for Easton Sports.
Danny Johnson graduated from Francis Howell in 1991. He lettered in both football and baseball. He received All Conference Honors as a receiver in football anad in his Junior year of baseball he earned Second Teall All Conference as an outfielder. He continued into his Senior year being the ace of the pitching staff for the first ever Francis Howell appearance in the state championship game. He earned All Conference honors as well as being named Honorable Mention All Metro.
After graduatin, Danny went on to play baseball at Rend Lake, Florissant Valley, and Lindenwood University. While as Lindenwood, he was recognized in his Junior year, ranking 19th in the nation is stolen bases. Danny ahs been married to his wife Dawn for 9 years and one son, Tyler who is 6.
Kyle Jundt graduated from Francis Howell High School in 1998. Kyle was a two year varsity starter and 1997 broke the school record for most hits in a season with 41, and tied the record for most doubles in a season with 13, which he shared with fellow Hall of Famer, Nick Wilfong. During his High School career he earned all conference, all-metro, and 2nd team all state as a 2nd baseman in 1997.
In 1997 the team finished 2nd in state losing 6 to 5 in the state championship game to Fort Osage which was lead be sophomore Albert Pujols. Kyle played the last few games of the tournament with a broken foot which will tell you what kind of player Kyle was. After his Senior season, Kle signed to play baseball at Jefferson College. Kyle Jundt and Hall of Famer Paul James are cousins. Currently Kyle is a St. Louis County police officer. Kyle is marred to Anne and they have a 2 year old daughter named Ava.
Terry Kasper graduated from Howell in 1973. While at Howell, his athletic career was outstanding as a 3 sport letterman. Terry played baseball for 4 years and received All Conference recognition two years. He played football for 4 years and received All Conference recognition 3 times. He was also a basketball player where he was All conference once. In 1973 Terry was named Francis Howell's Post Dispatch Scholar Athlete.
After his High School playing days Terry headed to Southwest Missouri State where he starred in both baseball and football. He played both sports for 3 years, receiving All Conference recognition two years in both sports. In 1993, Terry Kasper was inducted into the SMSU Athletic Hall of Fame.
After college, Terry returned to the Francis Howell district and taught in the district for 16 years, teaching PE, Health, and Drivers Education. While at Howell, he coached baseball for 16 years--13 as the head coach. Coach Kasper's teams were the conference champs 6 times in '84, '85, '86, '88, '91, and '94. He coached 4 District Champion teams in '81, '82, '91, and '93. The Vikings went to the Final Four twice under Coach Kasper earning a 2nd place finish in '91 and a 3rd place finish in '93.
Terry retired from coaching High School Ball after the '94 season and became an assistant principal at Francis Howell from '95-'97. The '97 school year found Terry Kasper shedding his blue and gold and becoming the Activities Director at newly formed Francis Howell Central, a position that he currently holds.
Terry is married to Brenda who is a very supportive wife. They have 2 children that attend Francis Howell. Tyler who is following in his father's footsteps in both baseball and football, while daughter Casey is also very active at Francis Howell High.
Terry Kasper left a legacy at Francis Howell for all baseball players to live up to.
Tyler Kasper is a 2004 graduate from Francis Howell. He becomes the first father son to be inducted into the Francis Howell Baseball Hall of Fame. Tyler was a key player on the 2003 team that won the state championship for Howell. He was one of our top pitchers his whole career while dh'ing and playing the corners for us.
Tyler was a first team All State player, All Metro, and All Conference while he was at Francis Howell. After graduating from Howell he attended college at Missouri Southern and Lindenwood and played football at those schools. He is currently finishing up his degree and looks to follow in his dads footsteps and become a teacher and a coach.
Kent Keiser graduated from Francis Howell in 1979. Besides his baseball honors he was All District in football his senior year as well as placing 2nd and 5th in state in Wrestling. His baseball accomplishments include: First team all conference his junior and senior year, All Metro his junior and senior year, 2nd team all state his junior year, 1st team all state his senior year, as well as being Honorable Mention All American.
While in College he spent 1 year at Mineral area where he was a JUCO All American and then he played one year at the University of Missouri. After his year at Mizzou he was drafted in the 7th round by the Philadelphia Phillies, where he played 4 seasons in the minors. After his minor league career he played for 12 seasons in the EMBA where he was a 12 time All Star and was the MVP 3 times in their World Series. In 12 seasons in the EMBA he hit 206 home runs.
Sean Lewis graduated from Francis Howell in 1994. Sean was brought up to varsity during his sophomore year to play second base. During the district tournament, Sean hit a dramatic three run homer in the semifinal game against Howell North that helped send Howell to the district championship game. During his next two years, Sean anchored down second base and was a vital part of the 1993 team that finished third in state. Sean had a knack for getting on base, setting a single season record during his senior year for on base percentage at an.803 clip. Sean also holds the record for career on base percentage of .650. His .470 BA and 24 stolen bases his senior year earned him all conference and all metro honors. Sean was also brought up his sophomore year for basketball and was a vital part of the team which made the school’s first State Quarterfinal appearance in 1994.
Sean was a St Louis Post Dispatch athlete of the year nominee and a recipient of the Bill Todd Scholarship award. Sean attended Mineral Area College for two years earning All-Conference and All Region honors during his sophomore year. After two years of junior college, Sean transferred to Florida Southern College but during a fall game tore his MCL and took a medical red shirt during his junior season. He decided to transfer back home and play for former major league all-star Scott Cooper at Fontbonne University. Sean had two very productive years at Fontbonne earning All-Conference honors during his junior and senior years. During his senior year, Sean led the SLIAC in batting average, home runs, and RBI’s earning him 1st team All-Conference, Conference Player of the Year, and Team MVP honors. Sean has worked in the medical device and biologics industry for the past eight years. He lives in Columbia, IL with his wife Lisa and two kids Lucas and Amelia. .
Josh Kohrs graduated in 2001. In 1999 as a sophomore he earned the following honors: 2nd team All GAC (DH/Utility), Honorable Mention All Metro, 1st team All State, and the team finished 4th in state. The 2000 season brought him 2nd team All GAC again where he hit .347. That year he made the MHSBCA Junior Showcase All Star team. He also was instrumental in leading the Vikings to the Conference championship. In 2001 Josh had a stellar season and set a ton of records, led by 14 home runs. His honors for that year included: 1st team All GAC, 1st team All Metro, 1st team All State, GAC player of the year, St. Charles Post Player of the Year, Missouri Senior All Star. The team was also District Champs that year.
Josh broke the following records: 2001-42 RBI's, 2001-14 Home Runs, 1999-2001 Career RBI's 94, 1999-2001 Career runs scored 78, 1999-2001 Career Home Runs 25, 1999-2001 Career base on balls 35, 1999-2001 Career innings pitched with 152 innings, and 1999-2001 Career Appearances with 43. Some other of Josh's career highlights included scoring 26 runs verses Zumwalt North in 2000, collecting 7 RBI's verse Duchesne in 2001, he also hit 2 home runs in a game 4 times in 2001 verses Duchesne, Howell Central, St. Charles West, and Zumwalt North. His first year at Maplewoods Jr. College he was selected as 1st team All Region while hitting .390 and posting a 2.00 ERA.
Bob graduated in 1981 from Francis Howell. He struggled to make the team and started hitting and never quit. He currently holds the single season average record when he hit .484 in 1981. It goes to show you how a never quit attitude can work out for you. Bob would like to let you know how Francis Howell team sports have shaped his life as a leader in the business world, plus learning to be a team player. This was instilled to him by coaches and teammates. A favorite quote of his is 'Winning without risk is triumph without Glory'.
Tim Morgan is a 1971 graduate of Francis Howell High School where he was a three sport letterman, playing football, basketball, and baseball. He played baseball from 1968-1971 for Coach Ken Dyson and Coach Jerry Burbes. While in High School, Tim was an undefeated pitcher, and in his senior year recorded a 7-0 record with two no-hitters, two one-hitters, and an impressive 0.74 ERA. That year he was saved for conference games and his six conference victories led the Viking to the 1971 Gateway Athletic Conference title, its first year of existence. Coach Burbes stated of Tim, "He will never be replaced-someone will be out on the mound, but his skill and leadership will never be replaced."
Tim was an outstanding football player as well and Coach Frank Davis was quoted in the St. Charles paper as stating, "Tim is probably our best football player. We could put him an any position and he could play it well." Tim also was named to the 1980 FH football Dream Team. Dr. Morgan was also selected as the first Scholar Athlete by the St. Louis Post Dispatch. He was the first selection from the school.
Tim continued his playing career at Central Missouri State. After his baseball days he played slow pitch in the Kansas City area where he played for powerhouse Tvarscki and won a Class B State Championship.
Dr. Morgan is a dentist in Quincy, Illinois and in 1990 was awarded a United States patent for The Morgan Bumper, an orthodontic appliance that protects the inner lips from braces. Tim was also asked to be, and currently serves as a National Board Examiner for various dental schools' clinical exam. Tim has been married to Jan D. Morgan for 27 years. They have 3 daughters: Becky (24, married to David Hoskins), Jenny (21), and Michelle (16). Tim would like to thank all of his coaches and teammates, each of which are part of this award.
CLASS OF 2016
CALVIN MUNSON
Calvin was inducted into the Francis Howell Baseball Hall of Fame in 2018. He was a key member of the 2013 State championship team and was a gifted athlete. He was drafted his senior year in High School by the St. Louis Cardianls in the 31st round. He elected to pass on that offer and went to San Diego State to play Football for 4 years where he was a star. He did play a little bit of baseball at San Diego State his senior year.
He appears in our records page in Hits in a season, RBI's in a season, At Bats in a season, Home Runs in a season and in his career, and Career Triples. At this time he is tied for 2nd in pitching wins in a season with 9, with fellow hall of famers Andy Walker, Aaron Ott, and Brett Graves. He is tied with Josh Kohrs and Austin Southmayd for 5th in career wins with 13.He appears on our record page with 3 saves in 2013 and is 3rd in ERA with a .64 ERA in 2013.
During the 2013 State run Calvin started the District Championship game and he threw a complete game shutout as we beat Holt 8-0. Sectional game he gets the start agains Ft. Zumwalt West. He again throws a complete game and we win 2-1 thanks to a 2 run homerun hamered by him. Quater Final game was verse SLUH and TCU bound 6'9 Brian Howard who got drafted. Calvin delivered another 2 run home run. He faces the last hitter of the game and strikes him out as we won 4-2. Semi Final game was delayed because of a tornado and Calvin gets the start against Staley out of Kansas City. He throws 5 2/3 innings with 10 strike outs. Calvin again had a 2 run home run and a triple. We win that game 9-6 and move on to the State Championship game verse CBC. Calvin comtributes 2 hits and we are State Champs again by the score of 7-3.
After the game the seniors missed their graduation so they brought their caps and gowns to TR Hughes park and held their own celebration in left field at the park. He is currently in his second year with the New York Giants and saw plenty of time in his rookie year last year at Linebacker. He is the son of Kurt and Kristin and has a brother and 2 sisters Codi and Crystyn. Calvin joins his older brother Case in our Francis Howell Baseball Hall of Fame.
CLASS OF 2016
CASE MUNSON
Case Munson is a 2011 graduate of Francis Howell. He is the son of Kurt and Kristen Munson. He was a key member of our state championship team in 2011. That team finished the season at 32-3. Case was our 3rd baseman and hit some legendary bombs especially in the quarterfinal game verse SLU. He has many career records at Francis Howell and also is in the state record book for some offensive numbers. As of 2016 this is where he currently lands on our records pages: 2nd Home runs in a season 12 and 2nd in Home runs for a career at 18. He is 3rd in triples for a career at 9. Case is 4th in season triples with 4 and also RBI's for his careeer at 102. He is 6th in homeruns for a season with 6 his junior year. Case is 7th in runs for a season at 43 and RBI in a season at 44.Case was walked a bunch and is 9th in the record book 15 walks his senior year. The last time he is mentioned is he sitys 11th for hits in a season at 46.
Case was All Conference, All Metro, All State, and All American in High School. Upon graduating Case accepted a scholarship to play baseball at the University of Missouri and played 4 years from there just recently receiving his under grad degree. He has helped out the girls softball team at Howell the last couple of years.
Chuck Mueller is a 1980 graduate of Francis Howell. He was a 3 year starter for the Vikings at the Varsity level. He was a 3rd baseman and a pitcher. After graduating from Howell he attended Mineral Area Community College where he played for 2 years. He is married to Christine and they have 3 children who will be attending Wentzville Timberland.
CLASS OF 2013
NATHAN ORF
Nathan Orf graduated in 2008 from Francis Howell. He was the lead off man and catalyst of our 2008 team that finished 2nd in State that year. He was also a tri captain with fellow Hall of Famers James Allen and Preston Aldridge. After graduating from Howell he received a scholarship to play baseball at the University of Illinois-Chicago. After a summer season after his freshmen year he decided to transfer to Baylor. At Baylor he had an exemplorary career and played every where in the field. His best year was his Junior year when he led off and was the DH for them as they spent time ranked #1 in the nation. After graduating from Baylor he signed as a free agent with the Brewers and is currently still playing with the Helena Brewers.
In 2007 Nate was 1st Team All Conference, 2nd Team All State, and 3rd Team All Metro. In 2008 he was on the Midwest Classic All Tournament Team. He was on the 1st Team All Conference, All Metro, and All State. Nate Orf was also a 1st Team High School All American in 2008.
As of 2013 Nate is etched in our school records numerous times. He is 1st in batting average for a season at .495, batting average for a career at .462, hit by pitch in a season with 19, and hit by pitch for a career at 21. Nate is 2nd in on base for a season with .621 average, on base for a career .603, and intentional walks with 3. He is 5th in stolen bases for a season with 19, walks in a season at 18, and walks in a career at 34. Nate is 6th in runs scored in a season with 41, stolent bases in a season 18, and stolen bases in a career at 37. He is 7th in hits for a season at 46, runs scored in a career at 69, and walks in a season with 16. He currently ranks 8th in put outs for a season with 135.
Nate was the 3rd Orf brother to play for the Vikings. Oldest brother Jaron played and coached for the Vikings and Brendan also played 2nd base for Howell.
Aaron Ott graduated from Francis Howell in 1996. Aaron played baseball and football in High School. He made second team All Conference as a Middle Linebacker. His true love was always baseball. He was a bulldog of right handed pitcher that never complained of a sore arm. Aaron's senior year he lost to the eventual State Champion Parkway West in the first game of the year. He would not lose again all season. Aaron finished with a 9-1 record, a 1.76 ERA, and he also recorded a save. He still shares the season record for wins at 9 with fellow Hall of Famer Andy Walker. That year he broke the strike out record of 81, finishing with 86. Aaron also played 3rd base for the Vikings when he was not pitching and there were not many balls that got by him at the corner. In 1995 he was a pivotal player of the Vikings quarterfinal finish.
After High School, Aaron served a 2-year mission for his church in Chihuahua, Mexico. Upon his return from Mexico, Aaron accepted a baseball scholarship to Ricks Jr. College in Idaho. He had a successful college career. He finished with a 7-5 overall record with three saves. He also is the only pitcher in Ricks College history to throw a no hitter. He now owns his own company and resides in St. Charles.
CLASS OF 2023
TONY BISHOP
Tony Bishop graduated from Francis Howell in 1983. He was pitcher that dominated in the summer especially. After graduating from Howell he threw for Merramec for a a bit. He was undefeated in the summer and during his Legion days he won 24 games in a row which broke a Legion record that was held by Rollie Fingers.
He became a policeman in St. Charles and now is retiirted and lives at the lake where he makes wooden fishing lures that he sells throughout the country.
CLASS OF 2017
BRETT PEEL
Brett Peel graduated from Francis Howell High School in 2011. He was the starting second basemen on our 2011 State championship team. Brett is one of the hardest working and hard nosed players that have ever played at Francis Howell.
Brett currently sits in 3rd place for triples in a season which he did in 2011. He is also in 3rd place for walks in a season. Besides having a knack for getting on the base he was very solid defensively. Brett is tied for 2nd in assists for a season and also appears on our record sheet in the 10th place for assists in a season.
After the state championship game Coach P was approached by the JEFFCO coach who was asking about Brett. Coach P said hold on and drug Brett off the bus to talk to the coach. He played 2 years at JEFFCO and did very well there. He did so well that he moved to the University of Missouri where he joined 4 of his old High School teammates and started at 2nd base for 2 years for the Tigers. After his playing days were over at Mizzou he became a graduate assistant there and coached 1st base. He and his good friend Ryan Light are now working and living in Dallas Texas where they operate a baseball training facility. Brett is currently an assistant coach for the University of Missouri.
CLASS OF 2021
JUSTIN PERKINS
Justin Perkins was inducted into our Hall of Fame in 2021. He graduatted from Francis Howell in 2016.Justin had a storied career at Francis Howell. As a freshmen he had a few at bats for the varsity with the highlight of that season was when he was at the plate with all 3 of his brothers on the base and he got a base hit up the middel to end the game. He was a multi positionaal guy that had many quality innings on the mound for the Vikings as well as playing anywhere he was needed. In a game verse Mt. Vernon Ill. he played 8 different positions and the only position he did not play was catcher. He was our leadoff hitter that some how always found a way to get on base. During his 4 year Career he won 2 State Champonships and one 2nd Place in state in 2014. He was All Conference, All Metro, and All State during his career
Justin appears in our records page numerous times. 8th in Hits in a career, 5th in At Bats in a season with 119 and 6th with 118, 3rd in At Bats for a carrer with 37, 1st in Runs scored in a season tied with fellow Hall of Famer Eli Dilday with 54, also 3rd with 48 and 10th with 37, 1st in Runs in a career with 118, Hit By Pitch seaso 2nd with 18 3rd with 14 and 4th with 13. Hit By Pitch in a career 1st with 45, Stolen bases for a season 8th with 19, Stolen bases in a career 8th with 38, Base on Balls season 7th with 19 and 9th with 17, Base on Balls for a career 3rd with 46, Intentional Base on Balls 34d with 4 and 4th with 3, Carreer games played he is 2nd with 125, Assists in a season he is 17th with 53.
After High School Justin attended and played for Murray State his first year. His second year he transferred to Jeffco where he played Left Field and 2nd Base. His Jeffco team made it to the National JUCO tournament in Grand Junction, Coloardo. After a year at Jeffco Justin accepted a scholarship to play in hes second D1 school which was Southern Illinois Unviversty Edwardsville. He graduatted on tiime and now is a Safety Supervisor for McCarthy Construction.
CLASS OF 2021
RYAN PERKINS
Ryan Perkins was inducted into the Francis Howell Baseball Hall of Fame in 2021. He graduated from Francis Howell in 2016. During his career he was able to get on the field with all 3 okf his brothers at one time or another. During his High School career the Vikings earned at State Championship in 2013 a Second Place finish in 2014 and another State Championship in 2016. He was primarily an outfielder but also pitched a little bit. Usually starting on our Saturday Games. His senior year he threw 6 1/3 inning verse Eureka and hit a monster homerun late in the game that hit their bus and we won 3-1. He also managed to hit one of our biggest fans car with a home run as Mrs. Reed was in right field and his ball found her car. He was All Conference,. All Metro, All State, Pre season All American and All American during his career.
Ryan is lested in numerous place on our Francis Howell Records page. 2nd in Batting Average in a season .495, 3rd On Base for a season at .611 and 8th .556. 7th in Hits in a season with 50 and 14th with 43. 3rd in Hits in a career with 132, 8th in RBI's season with 43, 12th with 38, and 13th with 37. 1st in RBI for a career, 5th At Bats for a season with 119,5th At Bats career with 334, 9th Runs scored in a season with 40, 11th 36, and 13th 34. 3rd in Runs scored in a career 112, 7th Home Runs in career 11, 2nd in Triples in a season with 7, 4th with 4, and 5th with 3. 1st in Triples in a season with 7, 4th with 4, and 5th with 3. 1st in Triples for a career with 14, 8th doubles career 24, Singles in a career 84, 3rd in Total bases for a career 216, and 7th Hit by Pitch with 12. 6th in Stolen Bases in a season 21, 4th in Stolen bases for a career 43, 1st in Base on Balls in a season with 39, and 3rd with 23. 1st in Base on Balls for a career with 76, 1st Intentional Base on Balls 9, and 2nd with 9. 5th in Sacrifices for a career with 9, and 1st in Career Games played with 127.
After graduating from Francis Howell Ryan accepted a scholarship to play baseball at Murray State. He played there for 5 years which included the season shortened covid year. He graudated from Murray State in 2020 and is currently finishing up his Masters Degree. He walked out of Murray State with many career records including most Career games played ever at the University. He currently is coaching for the Prospects in the summer and recently was hired as the Strength and Conditioning coordinator for the St. Louis Prospects.
CLASS OF 2019
NIC PERKINS
<P>Nic Perkins was inducted into our Hall of Fame in 2019. He was unable to attend as he is still playing minor league ball with the Nationals affiliate the Hagerstown Suns. Nic was a 2014 graduate of Howell. He had a few bats as a Freshman which one was a home rum. He was a 3 year varsity starter. During his High School career he played in an uprecedented 3 final fours. Nic was a particiapant on the 2011 State Championship team, the 2013 State Championship team and was a starter on the 2014 team that finished 2nd in state. </P>
<P>Nic was 1st Team All American, 1st Team All State, All Metro, All Conference, and All Academic through his High School days. Nic is in our record books in a lot of places and also on the state records books too. Nic is tied for 4th in Batting average for a season hitting .483, career he is 10th with a .405 average. On base in a season he is 7th with a .572, career he is tied for 5th. Hits he is tied for 2nd with Eli Dilday as they both had 58 hits in 2014, career Nic is ted for 2nd with Major leaguer Brett Graves with 137 hits. RBI's in a seas he is 2nd with 59, and 2nd in career one behind brother Ryan Perkins. At bats in a season he 4th and 10th, career he is 2nd with 341 behind fellow Hall of Famer Greg Rodgers. Runs in a season he is 10th and career he is 6th with 97. Home runs career he is 3rd tied with Preston Aldridge with 16. Doubles in a season he is 4th tied with Jake Ivor and current Viking Matt Schark, career he is 2nd with 31. Single is a career he is 2nd. HBP he 9th in a season and 2nd in career behind Ryan Perkins. Intentional walks in a seasone he2nd tied with brothers Justin and Ryan Perkins, as is Jeff Sargent. Career games played he is 3rd behing Justin and Ryan Perkins. </P>
<P>As you can see, he is in a lot career records. That is because we played a lot of games as we maxed out 3 of his 4 years in games played as we were in Final Fours. Nic was one of the most dedicated and hardest working kids that our program has ever had.. </P>
<P>Upon graduation Nic continued his education and playing career at the University of Mississippi. He played there for 2 years and then transferred to Drury University. After a successful year there Nic was drafted in the 29th round by the Washington Nationals. He went directly to the the short season in Auburn New York. He is currently in his 3rd year with the Nationals and playing with A ball Hagerstown Suns. He is the son of Head Coach Tony Perkins and wife Tracey and has 3 brothers, Zac, Justin, and Ryan. . </P>
CLASS OF 2018
ZAC PERKINS
Zac Perkins was inducted into the Francis Howell Baseball Hall of Fame at our annual golf tournament on August 18 2018. He graduated from Howell in 2013 and was a starter on 2 championship teams in 2011 and 2013. He was a 3 year varsity starter and even saw some time as a freshmen. He is tied with Michael Hopkins for 2nd place in career starts with 108. Defensively he is the career assist leader. Primarily a shortstop throughout his career he etched his name in quite a few places not only on our Francis Howell Records page but State wide records as well.
Zac was 1st Team All State, All Metro, All Conference, and All Academic through his High School days. He played in the Senior Missouri vs Illinois All Star game in 2013 which was held at Busch stadium. He joined teammates Calvin Munson and Nate Green in that game. Coach P also helped coach that game with Alan Benes and Bernard Gilkey. He was a base burglar and walked out with single season and career record of stolen bases, eclipsing Coach Darin Cissels records.
One of the most dramatic moments of his career when we were in the 2011 State Semi Final game down 13-11 in the bottom of the 7th with 2 ourts and Zac was up with a man on. He proceeded to clout a dramatic home run over the batters eye in centerfield to tie the game. Jacob Rhodes and Brett Graves get on and Brett Peel proceeded to put one on the warning track and we were on to the state championship.
He had numerous hits and stolen bases in our 2013 state run. Last inning of State Championship game, Zac went back to second base and rolled his ankle severely. His yournger brother, Ryan pinch ran for him as he had to come off. The trainer taped him up and he took the field for the final 3 outs as the Vikings were State Champs again 7-3 over CBC. After the game the Vikings Dog piled for the only time all year. Since the game was pushed back because of a tornado the Perkins family had to cancel their trip to Mexico but it was worth it. The seniors missed their graduation but brough their cap and gowns to TR Hughes Ballpark and had their own celebration in left field.
Zac continued his playing career at Lindenwood College where he played for four years. He graduated early with an Accounting degree and is 2 classes short of his masters at this time. He is the son of Tony and Tracey Perkins and has 3 brothers, Nic, Justin, and Ryan. All 4 brothers appeared in a few games for the Vikings.
Mike Potthoff graduated from Francis Howell in 1984. His senior season he he was first team all conference and 3rd team All Metro. The tall right hander had an 8-1 record. That summer he led the C&H Legion team to the State Championship while putting up a 13-1 record. Upon graduating from Howell Mike enrolled at the University of Missouri where he also played basketball for the Tigers. During 3 years of playing baseball Mike had a career record of 18-10. In 1988 and 1989 he received 2nd Team All Big Eight. The Los Angeles Dodgers drafted him in 1989 and he spent 3 seasons in their system.
Mike earned his Bachelors degree from Mizzou in 1989 and later got his Masters degree from Washington University in 1996. Mike is married to Patricia and has 4 boys, Ryan who is 4, and triplets Tyler, Dylan, and Kyle who are 2. Mike is a General Manager in Employment for Anheuser-Busch Inc.
Greg was a four year Varsity starter at Francis Howell. The first such player that Coach Perkins has ever had. He came up as a freshmen and kept hitting and hitting, earning his spot on the team and did not stop hitting until he graduated.
He was a 2-time First Team All-Conference selection along with being 2002 Conference Player of the Year, and 2003 Metro Player of the Year. He was a 2003 1st Team All-Metro and a 2-time 1st Team All-State. He was a 2-time Captain, and Captain of the 2003 State Championship team.
He He holds school records for single season doubles--15, career record in hits, at-bats, doubles, rbi's, games played, total bases, and runs. He was selected to the Senior All-Star game for the East squad in 2003. Attended SCC then SLU following high school. He was a part of the 2006 Atlantic 10 Conference championship team. Led that team with 56 RBI's. Graduated from SLU with a degree in Accounting in 2008.
Kevin Sahrmann graduated from Francis Howell in 2000. Kevin was a left handed pitcher for the Vikings, and was a 3 year starter for the club. He is the career record holder for wins in the program with 16. Kevin did not hit much his sophomore or junior year but swang it real well his senior year and chipped in with a couple of home runs. Kevin had one of the best changes in work ethic after his junior year. He dedicated himself and got serious about the game and prepared himself to pitch at the next level.
After graduating from Howell, Kevin accepted a scholarship to play at St. Charles Community College. He enjoyed a productive 2 years there under pitching coach Bill Binsbacher. From St. Charles Kevin has moved on to the University of Missouri at St. Louis where he will continue his playing career.
Tony played shortstop 3 years on varsity and was an intricate part
of the 1999 team that took 4th in state. He also played for the 2001 conference
Championship team and was voted to multiple All-conference teams. Tony holds
school records for assists and double plays. Known more for his dazzling
defensive efforts, he also maintained a career batting average above .300.
Tony was a member of an All-star team that included fellow HOF’s Josh
Kohrs, Steve Eberhardt and some other key Howell players like Ryan Smith,
Alex Redfern, and Kyle Evans that won a National Championship in Hawaii.
He played shortstop, pitched a complete game shutout and hit a homerun during
the Semi-final game at U. of Hawaii’s stadium. He also had two key
hits in the Finals; a 2-run RBI double and a 3-2, 2 out single in the top
of the 7th.
He and his lovely wife Tiffany have two children (Donovan,4 Paige,1) and
reside in Overland, MO.
Jeff Sargent graduated from Francis Howell in 2005. His brightest accomplishment though had to be in 2003 when he and 5 other sophomores led the Vikings to their one and only State Title. He was brought up to the varsity in the middle of his freshmen year and never looked back. He was selected 1st team All State, All Conference, and All Metro 3 times. He was chosen as a pre-season All American in both his jr. and sr. year. He was a 1st team All American his sophomore year as a utility player. One of the most presitge awards he received was the Rising Star Award which he earned in his jr. year. He was a semi-finalist his soph year. Jeff was a multi-sport guy as he was also a 3 time All State football player.
Jeffs name is littered through not only our Francis Howell Records page but the national level as well. As of 2010 here is the records that he holds: 1st intentional walks, 1st pitching wins in a season, 1st in complete games in a career, 1st in consecutive wins (24 which is a national record as well), 1st in innings pitched in a career, 1st in strike outs career, 2nd in at bats for a season, 2nd at bats for a career, 2nd runs scored career, 2nd total bases career, 2nd career games played, 2nd strike outs in a season, 3rd in home runs for a career, 3rd singles for a career, 3rd in pitching apperances in a career, 4th runs scored in a season, 5th rbi's in a season, 6th batting average in a season, and 6th in batting average for a career. As you can see he was a multi talented player that did it on the mound, field, and at the plate.
Jeff earned a football scholarship to Missouri State and the first year there he played on the baseball team as well. He was the starting full back for the football team for 4 years. He recently has graduated from Missouri State and is searching for a job that will allow him to enter the coaching ranks as well. He will join the Francis Howell Baseball coaching staff this spring. We look forward to his knowledge and zest for the game.
Brock Schaefer graduated from Francis Howell in 2001. He caught a few games for us when he was a freshman. He was honorable mention all conference as a Sopohomore when he caught just about every game and was a main cog on a team that reached the final four. He was second team all conference as a junior and first team all conference as a senior. He was also honorable mention all metro his senior year.
Brock hit in the top 4 or 5 in just about every game for 3 years. He was a mainstay behind the plate that was a rock. He thrived on competition and had a hose. It was easy to shut down the running game with Brock behind the dish. He was the recepient of a lot of strike outs from the great pitchers that passed through our program and currently holds the career put out record for the Vikings.
Brock was an outstanding football player as well and is currently enrolled at Southeast Missouri State and is playing football there.
Kevin Schaefer graduated in 1975. He was a 2 time all conference player. Kevin was one of the hardest nosed players to have put on a Viking uniform.
Grant graduated from Francis Howell in 1955. He was a member of the first Francis Howell Baseball Team organized in 1954. He played first base and pitched when required. Grant threw and batted left-handed, was a consistent .300+ hitter and excelled in the field. Highlight of high school baseball career was pitching a no hitter against Assumption High (now St. Dominic High School).
Grant played three years of American Legion Baseball for Augusta Legion Post 262. The team was District Champions in 1954. He played 10 years in the East Missouri Baseball Association (EMBA) during which he was a member of the all-star team four times.
Glenn was a four year starter on the Howell Varsity team graduating in 1968. Glenn playled for Coach Mike Corley and Coach Ken Dyson. Coach Dyson once said, : Glenn was the finest defensive catcher he'd ever seen". Glenn caught for Roger Banze when Roger was senior and Glenn was a freshman. He hit a 3 run home run at old C&H ball park on Pralled Lane to give Roger a 4-3 win over St. Charles.
Glenn also caught Gerry Wolfe through his great years at Howell. He was a lifetime .300 hitter on the varsity and was usually batting in the clean-up spot the last 3 years of High School. In his senior year at Howell, Glenn had 12 hits in a row with 3 of them being home runs. Glenn also played American Legion for St. Charles and EMBA after graduation. Besides playing 4 years of baseball at Howell he also was on the track team and was the first person at Francis Howell to pole vault 12 feet.
Glenn Schiller later married Kathy McCary and had three sons---Scott, Steven, and Zachary who all played baseball at Francis Howell.
Chris Schreck graduated from Francis Howell in 1984. Chrtis was an immediate impact player for the Viking's as he was brought up to the Varsity as a sophomore. His sophomore highlights include a 4 for 4 day with 4 rbi's in the Vikings Districts win. As a Junior, Crhis was 1st team all conference with a .395 bating average, 5 home runs, and 27 rbi's. As a senior Chris led the team with 7 home runs, batted .431 and had 28 rbi's. Chris's honors were 1st team all conference in 1983 and 1984. Both years, despite having better power numbers he finished as a 2nd team All-Metro player behind former St. Louis Cardinal, Bernard Gilkey. Chris was a super all around athlete as he was a 1st team all GAC in both Football and Basketball. Chris still holds the record for 15 assists in a single basketball game. In the Summer Legion program, Chris was instrumental in the 2 time C&H state championship teams. Chris was a power hitter and slugged 7 home runs as a sophomore, 16 as a junior, and 14 as a senior.
Chris went on to play college ball at Mineral Area, Crowder, and SEMO, being named All Conference for all three colleges and Honoarable Mention All-American while at SEMO. Chris has been married to his High School sweetheart, Angie Pfeiffer fore 18 years and has three children, Taylor 16, Austin 14, and Hayden 3. Chris is in management with FedEx and has been working there for 20 years. In his free time he injoys watching Taylor swim for FH and spends a lot of his time coaching his son Austin's select baseball team.
Austin Southmayd is the son of Tim and Tricia Southmayd and a 2013 graduate of the program. He was a starting pitcher for two years picking up 13 wins and tossing ~103 innings for Howell baseball. In the 2013 season, he picked up 8 wins and 5 complete games – one being Missouri’s first 5A state championship game. Austin was the recipient of one of the most epic dog piles in school history. Coach P wanted to take him out in the 7th , but Eli Dilday dropped a tank late in the game and Austin talked Coach P into letting him complete the game. Southmayd, accompanied by several fellow hall of famers, helped lead the team to its 3rd state championship in program history. Southmayd continued his playing career at the University of Central Missouri while getting his Bachelor’s degree in Medical Laboratory Science. Shortly after graduation, he made his return to Howell baseball as an assistant coach. He is currently pursuing his Master’s as a Physician Assistant in Indiana.
<P> </P>Austin Southmayd is the son of Tim and Tricia Southmayd and a 2013 graduate of the program. He was a starting pitcher for two years picking up 13 wins and tossing ~103 innings for Howell baseball. In the 2013 season, he picked up 8 wins and 5 complete games – one being Missouri’s first 5A state championship game. Austin was the recipient of one of the most epic dog piles in school history. Coach P wanted to take him out in the 7th , but Eli Dilday dropped a tank late in the game and Austin talked Coach P into letting him complete the game. Southmayd, accompanied by several fellow hall of famers, helped lead the team to its 3rd state championship in program history.
Southmayd continued his playing career at the University of Central Missouri while getting his Bachelor’s degree in Medical Laboratory Science. Shortly after graduation, he made his return to Howell baseball as an assistant coach. He is currently pursuing his Master’s as a Physician Assistant in Indiana.
John Stein is Francis Howells #1 fan. He has been an avid supporter of our baseball teams throughout the years. He has helped Coach Perkins a lot with getting and sharing information about our teams. He started working a few years ago and every year he takes a weeks vacation the week of our Midwest Classic Tournament. He tracks all scores and shares that information for Coach P. He also got his drivers license a few years ago. Howell threw a game in and traveled to Mt. Vernon Illinois in about a 12 hour period. John Stein made the 2 hour drive by himself to catch the game. There has been a lot of players parents that have provided rides for John when he could not drive, especially to our final fours. We are so pleased to have inducted John Stein, our #1 fan, into our Hall of Fame. Below is a few words from Hall of Famer John Stein.
It all started with a conversation with Brad Fritz during Mr. Myers' Computer Programming Class my junior year in high school in 1998. Up until then, I didn't know Francis Howell played at C&H Park, which was about a 10 minute walk from my house. After attending my first game in 1998, I was hooked. I attended as many games as I could, even long after graduating in 1999. In my years as a fan, I got to see the team play in 6 final fours, winning 3 state championships (and hopefully more to come). I've seen a lot of the good times and some of the bad times throughout the years (a lot more good than bad). I hope to witness may more good times in the future. I've worked at Lowe's in St. Charles, MO since 2009.
Dale Stevener graduated from Francis Howell in 1972. Besides his baseball honors he was named 1972 MVP of St. Charles County in football, also to the 1972 All-Metro First Team in football by the St. Louis Post Dispatch as a premier runningback and kicker. In 1972 the St. Charles Optimist Club selected him as Athlete of the year in football. In 1980 he was selected to Howell's Football Dream Team as running back and kicker.
While at FHHS, his athletic career was outstnding as a 3-sport letterman. He played baseball for 4 years and they were GAC champs 1971-72. He hit .404 his junir year and was the first to be selected from Howell to the All-Metro All Star Team by the St. Louis Post Dispatch in 1972, where he hit at at impressive .420 clip. He played football for 3 years and the Vikings were GAC Champs 1971-72 . Dale also played basketball for 3 years.
In addition to his FHHS career, Dale played Khoury League Baseball from age 6 till age 14 for New Melle, MO. where the foundation of his baseball skills were honed, along with the help of his Mother for 4 years at Post 323. During which in 1971 were District Champs and second in State.
The Kansas City Royals drafted Dale in the fourth round in 1972 and was released in 1973. He was then signed by the St. Louis Cardinals and released in 1974. Where he he had the priviliege of palying with (K.C. Royals) George Brett, Dennis Leonard and (St. Louis Cardinals), Jerry Mumfrees and Larry Herdin. He also got he honor to be managed by Kenny Boyer. Dale is married to Virginia (Ginny) who is a very loving and supportive wife and mother. They have four children Tyson 26, Patrick 19, Mathew 18, and Melissa 17. Dale is a son of Albert and Charlotte Stevener and has a younger brother Michael who is a graduate of Francis Howell and a fellow Francis Howell Hall of Famer.
Mike Stevener graduated from Francis Howell in 1976. He was one of the biggest sluggers in the programs history. He held the home run record for about 20 years before it was broken late in the 90's. Mike was born in 1957 to Albert and Charlotte Stevener. He has lived in the New Melle area all of his life. Mike started playing baseball when he was 5 for the New Melle khorry league. He played there for 7 years and then played for the Dardenne khorry league where his team won the tri-county league 3 years in a row. St. Peters started a legion program in 1974 and he played 3 years in that program. From 1975-1977 Mike played on the C&H team. Mike was also a dangerous slow pitch player and played up until 1992 when he shattered an ankle and was not able to play any ball since.
After he graduated high school he continued to work at Dan's Country Meats in New Melle, MO as a meat cutter. In 1985 Mike changed careers and worked for Earl Banze Construction until 1993. In 1993 he started his own construction buisness that he still currently runs.
Mike Stevener married Kelly Grimm in 1979 and they have 2 daughters, Courtney 17, and Jordan 14. Mikes current hobbies are hunting, golfing, and raising his family.
Josh Street graduated from Francis Howell in 2005. That was one of the best baseball groups to ever graduate from the school. One of their biggest accomplishments was winning the state tournament in 2003 when they were sophomores. Josh was a pivotal player on that team. He was a 3 year starter for the Vikings anchoring the shortstop spot most of those 3 years. He also had quite an arm and sure helped in the pitching department closing and even starting some games. He even got some mound time in the state championship game. During Josh's career he was first team All Conference, All Metro, and All State.
Josh currently has a ton of records not only in the Francis Howell Records but joins the ranks in the state records as well. As of 2010 here is where he sits in the Howell records: 2nd in hits for a career, 2nd in rbi's for a career, 2nd in doubles for a career, 2nd in assists for a career, 3rd in rbi's for a season, 3rd in at bats for a season, 3rd in triples for a season, 3rd in triples for a career, 3rd in doubles for a season, 3rd in pitching saves for a career, and 9th in assists for a season. As you can see he was a busy guy. Hes a guy that started hitting and never stopped his whole career. His extra time hitting in the cage sure paid off for him.
Josh continued his playing career after High School at St. Charles Community College where he enjoyed a successful 2 years. In 2006 he hit .387 starting every game and was named 1st team all conference and 2nd team all region XVI. In 2007 He hit .398 and was named 1st team all region XVI and 1st team all conference starting all 54 games for them. From SCCC he then moved to Southern Illinois Edwardsville a D1 program where he was able to play with High School teammate Michael Hopkins. In 2009 he was named All-Independant among NCAA Division 1 schools. He hit .397 and tied a single season home run record with 15. He also had an 18 game hitting streak which was a record. In 2008 he was named Rawlings/ABCA All-North Central Region Second Team. Set a school record of 26 doubles and hit .407. He was 2nd team All-Great Lakes Valley Conference and started all 51 games for the Cougars. Besides helping at the Francis Howell baseball camps, Josh joined the Howell Coaching staff in 2010 and was the assistant on the Freshmen team.
John Szepanski affectionally nickmaned 'Spank" or 'Spanky, graduated from Francis Howell High School in 1995. He was a 3 year starter on the varsity anchoring down the 1st base position all 3 years. He was a bug lumbering lefty that hit like a demon. Coach Perkins was an assistant coach while he was playing and when he was coaching first base he spent a lot of time by the dugout or the fence to stay out of the way of his foul balls. He was also very slick with the glove there too.
When Spank started on the Varsity as a sophomore in 1993 the Vikings the team made it to the final four and finished 3rd in the State tournament. In 1995 his senior year the Vikings again won districts and were defeated in the quarterfinal game by Joplin. The Vikings also won the Gateway Athletic Conference titles in 1994 and 1995 while he was playing. He was an All Conference Player all 3 years and was also mentioned on the All Metro Teams. He also had a very productive numbers playing for the Daniel Boone Legion team.
After graduating Spanky attended Merramec Junior College and was a 2 year starter for them. After his Junior College career he decided to hang up the cleats. He now makes his living driving a truck and running his own fire wood company.
Chad Thorpe is a 1993 graduate from Francis Howell. He was a three-year varsity starting centerfielder for the Vikings. Chad was able to help lead the Francis Howell Vikings to two State Final Four appearances in 1991 and 1993. During his prep career, Chad was 1st Team All Conference and All Metro. Chad was also the first ever, starting centerfielder for the Daniel Boone Legion Baseball Team in 1990. After finishing his career with the Vikings in 1993 Chad attended Central Arizona College for one year, and then returned to Missouri to play baseball for Meramec. He was the starting centerfielder for Meramec and his team was able to advance to the Juco College World Series placing 3rd in the Nation. Chad is another one of our alumni that volunteered his time and helped coach at his alma mater at the sophomore level.
After finishing his baseball career Chad attended the Eastern Missouri Police Academy. Chad currently is a five-year veteran police officer with the Lake Saint Louis Police Department, where he serves as a Corporal. Officer Thorpe has received numerous accommodations over the years as a police officer. Chad is married to his wife Misty and they have two children, Sidney and Isabelle. Chad and Misty are expecting their 3rd child in April.
BRENDAN TRIMBLE
CLASS OF 2022
Brendan Trimble graduated from Francis Howell in 2014 and was inducted into the Hall of Fame in 2022. He was a 2-year starter for head coach Tony Perkins.
In 2014 he helped the Vikings to a 2nd place finish in state batting .448 on the season with a .511 on-base % for the 29-11 Vikings. He slugged the Vikings to the district championship with big wins over Washington and Hannibal then was named St. Louis Post-Dispatch athlete of the week for his efforts. He was a team captain and named 1st Team All-State.
In 2013 he helped the Vikings win their 3rd state championship playing 2nd base and batting #2 in the lineup in the big 7-3 win over CBC. On the season he hit .436 with a .537 on-base % for the 32-5 Vikings. He was a 1st Team All-District player and named the GAC Sportsmanship Award winner, like his brother Ryan, who won the award in 2008.
Brendan etched his name into the Francis Howell Record books many times. Batting Average for a season he is 14th with a .449 w tied with Jackson Hetzel, On Base average for a senior he is 14th with a .511, 5th in Hits in a season with 56 tied with fellow HOF’er Kyle Grantham, RBI’s in a season he is 7th with 45. At Bats in a season he is 6th with 125, and is tied for 5th in Triples in a season with numerous guys
In 2012, his sophomore team went 16-8 with Brendan hitting .431 with a .494 on-base %. Later that summer, he captained Daniel Boone to a 2nd place finish in the American Legion state championship getting 59 hits in 118 at bats for a robust .500 batting average. After high school, Brendan went on to be a 4-year starter at Truman State University where he finished 5th in school history in hits. He was named an All-GLVC Conference player and contributed to the 2015 Regional Champion team that went on to play in the Division-II College World Series in Cary, N.C. Brendan graduated in 2019 with a Bachelor’s Degree in Exercise Science and a Master’s Degree in Education.
Andy Walker graduated in 1989 from Francis Howell. His senior year he was 1st team All Conference and voted the team MVP. He was also 3rd team All Metro that year. He still holds the single season record for wins in the program with 9 in a season. He shares that record with fellow hall of famer Aaron Ott. The record for innings pitched in a season is also Andy's as he threw 72.3 innings in 1989. He was a pitcher that you could count on to show up every day. Andy pitched for Ron Hunt in the summer and traveled throughout the Midwest as well as Canada to play with him. While throwing for Ron Hunts team he tossed at least 2 no hitters. His senior year he was also selected to play in the Senior All Star game that was played at the University of Missouri.
Upon graduating Andy continued his playing career at Florissant Valley Comminity College for 2 years. From Flo, he transferred to the University of Missouri-St. Louis and finished with a degree in history. Currently Andy is working for a mortgage broker, St. Louis financial Services.
Ben Walker graduated from Francis Howell in 1993. He is Andys younger brother. They join the Steveners as the only 2 brother combination in our Hall of Fame. Ben was a tall right hander that chewed up many a inning for the Viking Baseball Club. He was the ace of the 1993 staff that was third in state.
Upon graduating from Howell he continued his career at Southwest Missouri State. He had a productive career there. After his college career Ben, traveled overseas and played professionally in France. He currently resides and works in Springfield, MO.
Nick Wilfong graduated from Francis Howell in 1997. Nick was an exceptional athlete that also excelled at basketball at Howell. He currently holds many school records. The carreer batting average record of .444, most runs scored in a season with 35 which he is tied with Chris Harrison and Brett Schaefer, triples in a season with 9 his junior year, triples in a career with 12, and doubles in a season with 13 which he also holds with Kyle Jundt and Greg Rodgers.
The speedy outfielder always found a way to get on base and create havoc for the defense. He was first team all conference twice, first team all metro twice, and All State as well. In 1997, Nick led the team to the final four. He had a broken hand and was not able to hit but still pinch ran and stole some bases for Howell in the post season. He was selected to play in the Senior All Star game as well that year.
Early in 1997 Nick signed early with the University of Missouri. He had a productive career there and was drafted after his Junior year by the San Francisco Giants in the 8th round and spent 3 years in their minor league system. Nick is the son of Herman and Becky Wilfong, a retired principal and counselor.
Gerry Wolf is a 1966 graduate of Francis Howell. He was a left handed pitcher that had one of the nastiest breaking pitches of his era.
