Friday, September 11 Washington and Lee Athletics will honor Jim Cryzter and Richard Redfoot as members in the class of 2015. This is a tremendous honor for the families, friends, and the wrestling program here at W&L.
As a way to remember, congratulate, and share memories we thought we would open a discussion thread. Please feel free to share something with members of the Washington and Lee community.
As modest a guy as you will ever know. A true handful to compete against; indeed you were in for a battle to the very end when you competed with him. We were just teammates one season. I got to know Jimmy more when I returned as a coach. He was your ultimate supporter. He knew how your season went even though he didn’t play soccer or whatever other sport. He was always ready to help in any way. He went out of his way to help me land a key prospect in Knoxville one year by going to a game and speaking with him and his family afterwards. His financial generosity through the Generals Club was huge. The absolute Steelers fan, there was no sports fan as informed or interested as Jimmy. Good friend and great supporter of W&L!
Thanks Rolf! I could never figure out how such an awesome person could be a Steelers fan!
Jim found me freshman year and got me onto the mats about 2 days after matriculation. When I beat the previous year’s starter I became Jim’s pre-season partner. I would not be in possession of a Montgomery freshman wrestler award if not for those sessions. After season he approached me about playing IM softball against the fraternities. Being a contrary sort, I said no thanks. Then I played shortstop for his team. Jim was always involved, always ready for workouts or recreational games. One of the few who will be sorely missed by even the most casual of acquaintances.
During my time at Washington & Lee as an assistant coach I became good friends with Jim. He was a great supporter of the athletic teams and W&L.
He had a passion for wrestling and was exceedingly pleasant to be around! Jim being so humble, I learned about his many accomplishments when I helped with the individual and team records history. He made me proud to be part of the wrestling program.