Benjamin Honors Athletic Hall Of Fame Inductees

Six remarkable individuals who made invaluable contributions to Benjamin’s athletic programs were honored for their legacies during the Athletic Hall of Fame Induction the evening of October 22.

Athletic Director Ryan Smith ‘93 and Head of School Dave Faus led the ceremony during half-time at the varsity football game.

Smith ‘93 said he and the entire Benjamin community were very excited to finally be able to formally induct The Athletic Hall of Fame Class of 2020.

“Due to COVID-19 the formal induction ceremony was originally postponed,” said Smith. 

“The Class of 2020 represents three of the greatest athletes to ever graduate from Benjamin in Erlana Larkins ‘04, Barrett Saunders ‘03, and Chris Cocotos ‘90. Their achievements go beyond Benjamin as they all had incredible success in college and professionally. Dave Parks, Bob Hohandel, and Dick Cavanah have a combined over 100 years of service to the School. Their positive impact on student-athletes has been nothing short of incredible,” he said. 

Cocotos ‘90 won a state tennis championship for Benjamin and was the number 1 recruit in the nation his senior year. Larkins ‘04 earned four state basketball championships for the Bucs and played Division 1 basketball at the University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill. Upon graduation, she was drafted by the WNBA. Saunders ‘03 has been described as one of the greatest track athletes to attend Benjamin and set numerous school records. He went on to run track at The University of Kansas where he earned All Big 12 team honors and was named an All American. 

Head of School Dave Faus said it was wonderful to see so many families, coaches, and alumni at the event to honor “major contributors to our sports program.” One such contributor was golfer Alex Vogelsong ‘19, whose jersey was retired during the ceremony. Described as “one of the greatest male golfers to ever play at Benjamin,” Vogelsong is currently in his junior year at Auburn University. His father accepted the honor on his behalf.

Board Chair Darren Lowe said he was thrilled to attend such an electric evening.  

“The energy and excitement for these inductees who have been so influential to our school was incredible,” said Lowe.