Hampden-Sydney College

A three-sport standout, Walter Sprye was one of the finest athletes to attend Hampden-Sydney College.  He was also a true leader, having served as captain for both the football and baseball squads.

As a football player, Sprye was a triple-threat quarterback for the Tigers.  He called the offensive plays and was equally adept at running, passing and kicking.  In 1942, he was a member of the state honorable mention All-American.  For his outstanding performance for the Tigers, Sprye was awarded a gold football by coach Frank Summers.

In baseball, Sprye played first base and as a senior was co-captain with Roy Duncan.  After graduation he remained at Hampden-Sydney for a year and in 1944 served as assistant football coach for the Tigers.  He was also a head baseball coach for a year after coach Summers was called overseas during the war.

In 1957, Sprye and S.A. Martin of Farmville established a sportsmanship award.  The first recipient was Hal McVey '57.  Today, Sprye is retired an lives in Rocky Mount, NC.