Hall of Fame
Larry Hester attended Pasadena College from 1963-1967 following a stellar high school athletic career in football and wrestling neither of which was sponsored by PC. At 6’3”, 225 pounds with outstanding athleticism, a baseball tryout resulted in a career. His freshman year he split time on the JV and varsity teams. It was here Larry met shortstop teammate, Mike Hazlett. They became like brothers resulting in a lifetime camaraderie of shared professions and families. Though Mike joined his Lord in heaven early, tonight as Larry joins him in our Hall of Fame, I can’t help but believe there’s a special joy taking place up there.
Larry played third base his first two years. As a junior he reached back to Little League days and rekindled his catching skills filling that important role. As a senior he moved to the outfield and reached the zenith of his baseball performance making 1st team All NAIA District 3 and Honorable Mention All American.
Larry was a dynamic part of every game. He could turn a game around with a key on base, rbi, stolen base or an unbelievable defensive play. Coach Carroll Land states, “I have never seen more exciting plays than some of those by Larry Hester; he could make an unbelievable difference in any game.”
By his senior year Pasadena College began wrestling. As a small heavyweight Larry generally pinned his opponent. College wrestling has seen few, if any, wrestlers as exciting as Larry. Sometimes the matches were so short it seemed the referee raised his hand as winner almost simultaneously with starting the match.
Following college, Larry returned to Sunnyvale and began coaching wrestling where Mike Hazlett served as his assistant. Conversely, Larry served as Mike’s assistant in baseball. The two of them made unbelievable records at Peterson High School and left indelible character impressions on numerous young high school men and women. Larry literally created a dynasty in wrestling winning the championship of the Santa Clara Valley League nine consecutive years. before retiring to his private business in sheetrock contracting. Larry’s wife, Jackie, is a Pasadena College graduate. They have two children, Chad and Chris.
Larry it is with deep appreciation we induct you this evening in the Point Loma Nazarene Athletic Hall of Fame Athlete in baseball and wrestling. Congratulations.
