Lawrence Neil Walker
Larry grew up and attended all twelve grades in the Grants Pass schools. He attended both the University of Oregon and Oregon State, receiving his final diploma from the University of Oregon.
Before coming to Medford as St. Mary’s coach, he had held coaching positions at the Illinois Valley High School in Cave Junction, Oregon and at the Evergreen High School in Vancouver, Washington. In 1967, Larry moved his family to Medford, and the following statistics are proof of what a great asset he has been to St. Mary’s High School.
From 1974 to 1983 St Mary’s won 76 straight regular season games without a defeat. Larry had 13 play-off teams, 12 League Champions, 7 State Championships, and 2 State Runner-Ups. His coaching record for the regular season is 140-16-1(90%), Play-off’s 31·6·1 (84%), with a total of 171-22-2 (89%).
As a coach, he has received his share of awards: In 1979, at Seattle, he was awarded the American Motor Coach of the Year – Pacific N.W.; in 1978-79-81-83. Class “A” Coach of the Year Runner-up; in 1980, Class “A” and “B” Coach of Year – All Sports; and in 1982 was Football Coach of the Year – District 7, and Finalist in National Football Coach of the Year.
“Larry ranks high in respect as a football coach in Medford and his ability as an administrator is held in equal esteem.” John Lowry. Mail Tribune.