The principal of Big Park Community School received a distinguished honor at his alma mater.
Steve Gardner, who has been the principal at Big Park for nine years, was inducted to the Orono High School Athletics Hall of Fame last month in Orono, Maine.
Gardner was among five former OHS athletes and coaches who were inducted in the fifth hall of fame class. OHS Athletic Director Mike Archer established the OHS Athletic Hall of Fame in 2007. All former OHS student athletes, coaches, administrators and special contributors are eligible for the honor in a nomination process.
“I don’t know who nominated me, but the honor makes me feel good,” Gardner said. “My grandkids will go to that high school, and they will be able to see Grandpa’s name there.”
Gardner attended OHS from 1958 to 1962 where he was a three-sport athlete, playing football, basketball and tennis. He was the starting center on the 1961 Orono football team, which was named co-champion with a 7-1 record. He also was a member of the 1961-1962 state championship basketball team his senior year.
After serving in the Vietnam War, Gardner returned to his alma mater to teach math for almost 30 years.
For the full story, please see the Friday, Oct. 5, issue of the Red Rock News.
