OUTSTANDING ATHLETE

Induction Year: 1995 | Graduation Year: 1973

Larry grew up in the New Carlisle area playing youth sports of football and baseball. Born to Paul and Lois Owen, May 31, 1955, the second of three children. Each graduate ofTecumseh High School, Dan 70, Larry 73 and Bev 76. While at Tecumseh, Larry was active in the Fellowship of Christian Athletes, Campus Life, the musical stage crew, and Varsity T. He earned 7 varsity letters participating in Football, Basketball, and Baseball. He was a member of the 1971 MRVL Championship Football team as a linebacker, punter, and running back. A member of the 1972-73 MRVL Champions Basketball team, Larry played guard, not a major scoring threat, but known for his aggressive defense and unselfishness in getting an assist while someone else did the scoring. Larry was a natural in baseball, of all the sports, this came easy for him earning All-League MRVL his junior and senior years. He was named to the All State Selection his senior year.

Upon graduation, Larry began his college career at Bowling Green State University. Being able to start as a freshman, he continued to receive 4 letters in baseball looking at the diamond from the catchers position. Being named to the All-League Mid-American Conference Teams his junior and senior years.

Though drafted by the California Angles his junior year, Larry opted to play his senior year. Larry was able to break Mike Schmidt's MAC career home run record his senior year, demonstrated he was an offensive threat in addition to this outstanding defensive position at catcher. A member of the all-District team his senior year, led to being named second team All American.

Being drafted by the Atlanta Braves organization, Larry spent 9 years with them. Starting his professional career in Greenwood, SC "A" ball. As with any professional athlete, one wishes to move closer to the big leagues. His second year was started in Savannah, GA in "AA", but finished in Richmond, VA in "AAA."

Called up to the big leagues in 1980, Larry credits this year as one of his most memorable. From 1981 to 1985 Larry spent many hours developing pitchers in the "bull pen", preparing them to step into a game situation. After winning the Governor’s Cup Championship for Richmond in "AAA." Larry became a free agent in 1986. Being picked up by the Kansas City Royals organization, he contributed to their success in their hunt for a championship with his defensive skills. Finishing his professional career in the "AAA" league in Omaha, NB, Larry's skills at catcher contributed in bringing the pitching staffs ERA down by a full point. Pitchers were requesting to be caught by Larry. Truly a dream of each catcher to be asked for.

Upon leaving the profession of baseball, Larry is pursuing his dream of succeeding in business as he did in baseball. Currently, he is Vice President of the Adhesive Polymer Division of Franklin International and serves on the Board of Directors for the Adhesive and Sealant Council in the industry association.

Married to his wife Chris (Murdock), a Tecumseh '74 grad, they have two daughters Jenny and Emily. Staying active in the role of husband, Dad, Coach, Umpire and Referee critic, Larry teaches the role of success to today's youth while residing in Hillard, Ohio.