It was 21 years and eight days ago today that word quickly spread across the App family that *new* MBB star RUFUS LEACH had lost his life in a swimming tragedy at Watauga Lake while swimming with fellow Mountaineer and best friend, Buddy Davis. This was the summer before Rufus' senior year and last year of eligibility and the summer before the official opening of the Holmes Convocation Center.
(It was also the very week that word leaked out that Buzz had given Tulsa his "high-sign." This, of course, was also after Buzz had accepted the HC position at Missouri State and then changed his mind, stating that he and Jan loved ASU and The High Country and couldn't bear the thought of leaving.)
I hope all who read this will take a few moments to reflect on the life of a young, intensely-determined, self-made serious college student, self-made man, self-motivated Mountaineer basketballer who lost his life way, way too soon. Reflect also on Buddy Davis. I knew Buddy in those days and (while I've lost touch with him) I'm confident that he'll be re-living that dreadful time as long as he lives.
Not happy days in App State history!
https://www.wataugademocrat.com/communi ... 3a.hishtml
Here is the link to the fall sports streaming schedule.
https://appstatesports.com/news/2023/8/ ... edule.aspx
https://appstatesports.com/news/2023/8/ ... edule.aspx
Remembering Rufus Leach: Watauga Democrat Archives
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Remembering Rufus Leach: Watauga Democrat Archives
Unread post by asu66 » Wed Jun 16, 2021 4:39 pm
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