 In August of 1952, Barney Otten entered the scene as Fenwick High School's first coach at the new school. He immediately took on the daunting task of organizing and coaching an assembly of students, none of whom had any organized football experience at any level. When Barney accepted the job, the Falcons didn't even have a football. Coach Otten led the Falcons through that first football season, which included the school's first win, and for the next four seasons, starting the program literally from scratch by scrounging equipment and making do with the most spartan of facilities.
Barney coached the Fenwick basketball team for its first four seasons as well, compiling an overall record of 38 wins against 54 losses. The school's first team (1952-53) compiled an amazing record of 12-9, including a string of ten wins in a row, with a group of players who had never before played together.
Coach Otten is recognized for laying the foundation for future Falcon athletic success by devoting tireless efforts to provide the means for competition and teaching the basics of the game, creating something from nothing. |
