Induction Graduation Sport

2019 1966 Football | Basketball | Baseball

Dr. Rick DeBlander graduated from North Canton Hoover in 1966 where he starred in three sports and in the classroom. As a football player, DeBlander moved to wide receiver in his senior season as the Vikings transitioned to a more passing oriented offense. That move paid dividends for DeBalander as he was named All Stark County and All State as a wide receiver during his senior year. In addition, DeBlander became the 1st Stark County athlete to receive the Ohio High School Football Coaches Scholarship Award. DeBlander also played point guard for the Vikings and was named All Stark County as a senior as well. Finally, DeBlander played second base for Coach Hertler and the Hoover baseball team that went 20-2 during his senior year. After Hoover, DeBlander went on to Wittenberg University where an injury ended his football career, but Rick went on to play a key role in the baseball program including serving as a captain his senior year. Following college, Rick attended medical school and became a doctor, just as his high school teammates and fellow Hoover Hall of Famers Greg Gray and Mark Stevens had done. DeBlander married his wife Cathy and together they have three daughters who all enjoyed great high school athletic careers of their own. In 2001 following a pick-up basketball game, Dr. Rick DeBlander had a heart attack and passed away. Although he was taken much too soon at the age of 53, Dr. Rick DeBlander left a legacy of excellence and care for others that will not be forgotten.