Hall of Fame
The Pasadena College basketball fans of the ‘50s and ‘60s will never forget Charles “Wayne” Burger. Charles’s time with the Pasadena basketball team began by accident. He had been an avid fan of USC and UCLA when he went with a friend to see PC play Whittier College in 1952. He was so intrigued by the high quality and spirit of play that he switched loyalties on the spot. From then until his death in 1972, he rarely missed a game. It didn’t matter if the Crusaders were playing at home, San Francisco or Texas —Burger was there.
The ultimate fan, Burger carried a small 3x5 card to every game where he kept his own stats. Everyone could count on Burger to know the team’s record, as well as individual stats like a players scoring and rebounding averages. Beyond the game at hand, Burger knew about the next opponents down to even the smallest details about their coaches.
Making it a priority to contribute consistently and generously to the financial needs of the basketball team, Burger was often the supporter behind the team’s food budget and travel expenses. He also purchased new uniforms, shoes and equipment nearly every season.
A classic example of a time when Burger came through for the team was on a week-long road trip to Texas. The team was running low on funds and Burger, who was unable to attend, sent along his personal car and credit card. The Texas trip, and another tour in New Mexico, wouldn’t have been possible without his contributions.
The award to Charles Burger was presented post humously by Steve Foster, with former basketball coach Chalmer Cartwright accepting.
