Rod McCray

2014 Inductee

Rod McCray was a 6th grade teacher at Union City for 18 years and a Girls Basketball Coach for many years. He was the last girls’ basketball coach to take his team to the playoffs, more than 15 years ago. He was also one of the most successful track & field coaches in Union City history. Some of his track accomplishments include; 1997 and 1998 PIAA State Champion 4x800 relay teams, Justin Clickett State Champion and Record Shot, Natalie Clickett State Champion Shot and Discus, Scott Antoun 3x State medalist in the 3200m, State runner-up 1995, Tom McCall State Medalist Triple Jump 1998, Bill McKinney State medalist 800m 1998, Brian Gaines state medalist 800m 1998.

Rod has been a member of the Union City First Baptist Church for more than 25 years, serving in leadership for over half of them. Rod is married and has 3 children and 7 grandchildren. Rod still resides in Union City.

Former Student Athlete Testimonials (excerpts from actual letters):

Coach McCray far surpasses the title of just a “coach” to me. I was part of Union City athletics with him from the 8th grade until graduating, every year for Cross Country and Track. Coach also took on the title of personal chauffeur for me since we lived on the same road, and we grew extremely close from all our trips to early morning meets or home after a weekday practice after school. Coach really understood his athletes well and knew how to motivate and encourage us. Coach pushed me to reach my goals in running, but also taught all of us many valuable life lessons. I have no doubt he is the reason for much of the success I have had. I owe a lot to him and the wonderful coach and wonderful person he always was and still is today.
-Mandi (Thomas) Boedeker

I had the pleasure of having Mr. McCray as an educator and also as a basketball coach for 7 years. I always had respect for him as a teacher and still use the skills he instilled in me as a student in his classroom. {As a basketball coach} he taught us the skills we needed to succeed not only on the court but off the court as well. Mr. McCray always had our best interest in mind. I looked to him as a mentor and a role model during my years in high school. I would recommend Mr. McCray to be nominated for the Wall of Achievement because he is an outstanding member of the community and has given back so much just by his role as an educator and his involvement in the athletic program at Union City.
-Abbe Daggett