 Roger South could be termed as one of the "pioneers" of Fenwick athletics. Roger played football in the days when the practice field was a 50 yard plot of grass just west of the restored old South school which at that time housed Fenwick High School. The locker rooms were dank and dark in the basement of the school and there was very little to excite players except the fact that they were able to participate in the inaugural years of a new venture. Roger was one of the participants who dedicated himself not only to being an outstanding athlete but a major contributor to Fenwick High School.
Roger was a good football player, who unfortunately, participated at a time when Fenwick was playing extremely weak competition and receiving no recognition whatsoever. It is impossible to say what awards he may have earned had he been able to participate in a more established program.
Roger was never negative about his situation but dedicated his life to improving it. He has assisted in coaching and other endeavors intended to improve the quality of Fenwick football.
He was one of the founding members of the John XXIII Elementary School football program, which has been a major feeder source for Fenwick High School.
Roger's most significant contribution to the Fenwick athletic program has been his dedication to scouting the upcoming opponent. For 37 years Roger has missed his alma mater's games in order to be in some other stadium somewhere in southwestern Ohio to evaluate the strengths and weaknesses of the upcoming competition. He was an invaluable contributor to the success of Coach Jerry Harkrader and all succeeding coaches at Bishop Fenwick. It is impossible to adequately evaluate his contribution but it is clear that it is substantial, it is ongoing, and it has been a dedication unmatched in the history of the athletic program of Bishop Fenwick High School. |
