Hall of Fame
Randy Benefiel perpetuated a very ordinary high school baseball career as a Crusader. In both his freshman and sophomore years he batted under.300 while trying to make the defensive adjustment from infield to outfield. In his final two years in a Crusader uniform, he displayed what hard work and determination could achieve.
Benefiel raised his average nearly 90 points as a junior, batting .341 and added 82 more points in his senior season as he battered the Southland Conference with a .423 average—a school record. He led a strong Crusader squad in hits, home runs and RBIs that year, striking out only 12 times in 156 official at-bats.
He became an accomplished outfielder, possessing a strong and accurate arm which commanded extreme caution by all opposing baserunners. Although not blessed with exceptional speed, Benefiel became an excellent baserunner. He was alert and able to take the extra base when it seemed impossible.
A true team player and leader, demonstrating a model attitude, Benefiel’s perseverance not only allowed him to emerge from mediocrity, but enabled him to become the first Crusader baseball player to earn All-American status.
Benefiel followed up his time on the team by working as the Associate Director of Admissions and also served with many churches as a youth director.
The award for Outstanding Achievement as an athlete was presented by Merlene Ritchie.
