Harrisburg Honors Ed Temple With Meet
by James
Phillips
Of The
Patriot-News
Thursday, April 12, 2007
In the sport of track and field, Edward S. Temple was ahead of his time.
Temple, an all-state athlete before graduating from John Harris High in 1946, became the first coach to lead three United States women's Olympic teams in 1960, '64 and '80.
Harrisburg will honor Temple, 79, at 10 a.m. Saturday during the first Ed Temple Track and Field Relays at Severance Field. Ten middle school teams from Lancaster and York counties and Central Dauphin, Harrisburg and West Shore school districts will compete.
Proceeds from the event -- $3 for adults and $1 for students -- will benefit the Harrisburg boys' and girls' track and field teams going to the Penn Relays at the University of Pennsylvania's Franklin Field on April 26-28.
While earning two degrees at Tennessee State University, Temple mentored Olympic stars Wilma Rudolph, Wyomia Tyus, Barbara Jones and Chandra Cheeseborough, the current TSU women's coach. The coaching legend also led the first America-Soviet Union and China-America women's track meets in 1958 and 1975, respectively.
After 44 years of coaching at TSU, Temple retired in 1994 with an impressive resume.
He coached 40 Olympians from his famous Tigerbelles Women's Track Club at TSU to 13 gold, six silver and four bronze medals. He is a member of numerous halls of fame -- national, Tennessee, Pennsylvania, TSU, black athletes and, of course, Harrisburg.
TSU named its track and field facility, plus an indoor classic meet (started four years ago) after Temple.
Of all the accomplishments, and accolades thrown his way, Temple is most proud that all of his Olympians earned their diplomas.
"When I came along it wasn't about expenses and making the dollar. I stressed education because you can't run and jump forever," Temple said from his home in Nashville.
"Education opened a lot of doors for the athletes and I'm extremely proud at what they accomplished. None of them went to jail or are on welfare. Back in the day, it was an honor to run for your country, yourself and family.
"Now, the majority of the athletes' main motivation is centered around endorsements and money. That is the reason for widespread steroid use. Athletes are making millions of dollars so they go for broke for that payday."
Temple won't get a first-hand look at the upcoming local talent at Saturday's meet.
Blame a bit of miscommunication for his absence.
"[Harrisburg] notified me a while ago and I circled the date on my calendar," Temple said. "But I haven't heard from them for about a month [about traveling arrangements], and now have another commitment. I would love to be there. I guess I'll wait until next year to attend."
James Phillips: 255-8182 or [email protected]