Coach Fred “Ferd” Larson

The warm days and cool nights of late September take me back to 1969, where the sweet scent of ripening concord grapes nearing harvest joins memories of my cross-country days under the guidance of Coach Fred “Ferd” Larson of Fredonia High School.

Like farmers nurturing their tender vines, Coach Larson tended his own crop of young men that fall.

The times we lived in were uncertain, much like today. But his belief in us helped us realize our potential. First during that fall cross-cross country season, then in the far broader fields of life.

Every team member, and there were about 35 of us, received individual attention from Coach Larson, whether a standout, or like me, doggedly determined to finish each race to the best of my own rather limited ability.

My cross-country senior-class brothers included Wes Sly, Wayne Bryan, James Callen, Kirk Rowland, Gary Graminski and Charles Carter. Many others of our class and upcoming classes also made outstanding contributions.

The Class of 1970, which celebrated its 55th reunion in July at the wonderfully restored White Inn, was among the first in what was to become a FHS cross-country and track dynasty under Coach Larson. He taught me about the value of hard work, sportsmanship and taking the long view. Many classmates at the reunion recalled Coach Larson and their years at FHS with much fondness.

I was to discover that life, like that long ago cross-country season, had warm, sunny days and bitter, cold, snowy ones. Showing up for each meet and giving your all despite challenges proved an important life lesson.

Win or lose, Coach Larson expected each of us to do our personal best. The team won and kept winning in a contest where the lowest score means victory.

In his later years, Coach Larson, a star as a student athlete, became a familiar figure running on village streets.

I spoke with him many times during my all-too infrequent trips to Fredonia. He always had a kind word of encouragement for me and mentioned others of my FHS era with happiness. The county sports hall of fame recognized him several years ago for his leadership and achievements in the Fredonia school community.

I am proud to be among the thousands of “old boys” Coach Larson helped guide though the complicated cross-country course of life.

John J. Runfola Jr. is a Schenectady resident and Fredonia High School Class of 1970 member.