Larry Fox has filled a number of roles within the Marysville High School athletic program.
From head coach to keeping track of the football team’s equipment, he’s done quite a bit for MHS athletes.
Now, he’s been rewarded for his efforts.
After playing several sports as an MHS athlete back in the 1950s, “Foxey,” as he is called, has maintained a steady presence in Monarch sports and the basketball court.
Many people from a number of school districts remember him as a basketball official.
He worked the state boys tournament on occasion.
Others will remember how he became the Lady Monarch softball coach in 1982 and took the team to the state Final Four in 1993.
More recent athletes know Fox, who recently turned 85, as an assistant coach for the Marysville softball team and equipment manager for the football program.
He also escorts basketball officials to and from the court and their lockeroom for boys and girls games.
With that said, Marysville athletic department officials decided he deserved some statewide recognition.
MHS athletic director Joey Day took matters into his own hands.
He nominated Fox for what is called the Ohio High School Athletic Association’s “state” award.
It’s an award presented to those volunteers who go above and beyond in their help to high school athletes.
“Larry’s done it all, from coaching to officiating and helping our programs in many ways,” said Day. “He is certainly deserving of this award.
“Larry has done exemplary work for our athletes.”
“It’s nice any time you earn an award from the OHSAA,” said Fox.
The former Lady Monarch head coach figures he’s been involved with fast-pitch softball as either a player or coach for the past 70 years.
He also played baseball, football and basketball and ran track and field while a student-athlete at MHS.
Fox was a halfback on the 1953 Monarch gridiron squad that posted a 9-0 record.
He is also a member of the Marysville High School Athletic Hall of Fame for his years as the head softball coach.
“I just enjoy being around the kids and helping out,” said Fox. “I’ve enjoyed everyone and they’ve all been good to me.”