Tag Archives: athletic hall of fame

Athletic Hall of Fame: Coach Wilmot “Babs” Babcock

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Coach Wilmot “Babs” Babcock certainly knew how to win, accumulating an astounding 341-47-2 record over the course of 20 years. After starting the Williston swimming program in 1951, Coach Babcock took the team to 15 New England Championships — 11 of them in a row. This legacy also produced 15 national prep champions.

“This one’s a no-brainer. Just looking at Bab’s record speaks volumes by itself,” wrote Paul Doty ‘64, one of Mr. Babcock’s former swimmers. “But what you may not know is how advanced he was for his time. We were doing pulley weights before Doc Councilman at Indiana was!”

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Posted in: Athletic Hall of Fame, Personal Results, Team Scores

Athletic Hall of Fame: Patrick Rissmiller ’97

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Was there any title that Patrick Rissmiller ’97 didn’t earn? It doesn’t seem likely. During his time at Williston, the ice hockey star (who also the most valuable player and All-League selection for soccer and team captain in lacrosse) led the team to a 23-4 record. For those keeping score, that’s the most wins in school history.

“My parents wanted me to repeat my junior year in high school,” said Mr. Rissmiller of on his two years at Williston Northampton.  “It worked out great.”

In his senior year, Mr. Rissmiller was named both captain and MVP. While cranking out enough points to put him third for all-time single season totals, Mr. Rissmiller was named an All-New England selection, and NEPSAC West Senior All-Star. He was also selected to play for the Team Massachusetts in Chicago Showcase.

“He’s the guy you want out there (on the ice) if you’ve got a penalty shot.  He’ll put it past most goalies,” said Mike Fay, boys varsity ice hockey coach. “He’s just a really creative player who sees the game well and makes things happen.”

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Posted in: Athletic Hall of Fame, Personal Results

Athletic Hall of Fame: Martha Grinnell ’85

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Out on the cross-country course, no one could catch Martha Grinnell ’85. They still can’t — Ms. Grinnell’s course record of 19.40 over 3.3 miles still stands.

Ms. Grinnell, who went undefeated in dual meets over two years and was one of the most decorated runners in the school’s history, held course records at five schools by the time she graduated. As captain of Williston Northampton’s team, Ms. Grinnell set records for both the 1,500 meters (5:01.3) and 3,000 meters (10:32.4).

She was no slouch off the course, either. At graduation, Ms. Grinnell was presented with the White Blazer, as the top senior girl.

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Posted in: Athletic Hall of Fame, Personal Results