Le Moyne College Athletics

Ronald G. Mack ’57 – Class of 1996

Resolve…

The decision to excel, to muster mind and muscle in a concerted effort that will not accept less than mastery is an option open to few.

Many athletes demand of themselves, and deliver, all that lies within their ability.  Some find the strength of heart and character to rise above their skills and perform at an exceptional level.  Only a small number combine extraordinary talent with a resolve to excel in a fashion that produces mastery.  Fewer still can parlay their abilities to master more than one sport.

When he arrived on the Heights he was the most acclaimed Rochester-area high school athlete ever to enroll at Le Moyne.  But he was no stranger to the Salt City: he held the high school scoring record for the Syracuse Armory, set while leading his Aquinas High School team over local power CBA.

He clearly had great talent.  And in the green and gold he demonstrated that he had the resolve to excel.

A solidly-built, 5-foot 9-inch guard with a set shot that devastated zone defenses, he could also drive to the basket with authority.  His agility made him a natural for the new “dribble and fly” technique of moving the ball up court.  On the diamond he was a rifle-armed shortstop who took his turn on the mound.  A power pitcher with a lively curve, he once turned eighteen Siena batters to the bench as strikeout victims in a single game.

He had been captain of Aquinas’ basketball and baseball team in 1953 and he would captain the same Dolphin squads in 1957.  He was selected “Athlete of the year” at both institutions in his senior year.

While building a successful business career, he coached Aquinas High School teams to an impressive 63-14 record, winning “coach of the year” accolades.  His resolve to excel began to manifest itself in still another sport.  He became one of the top senior golfers in New York State and two-time winner of the Rochester District championship. Typical of his willingness to serve and accept responsibility, he also became a moving force in the New York State Golf Association, assuming key volunteer posts.

Inducted into the Monroe County Sports Hall of Fame, he has continued to support his alma mater, and encourage young Rochester athletes to head east to don the green and gold he wore with such distinction. 

Exceptional ability made truly special by resolve to excel mark

Ronald G. Mack as a member of the
Le Moyne College Athletic Hall of Fame.

February 3, 1996