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FHHS Baseball Hall of Fame
Original Group
Front row left to right: Roger Hodapp, Brock Schaefer, Steve Eberhardt, Darin Cissell, Ryan Edwards, Dale Stevener, Terry Kasper, Grant Scharnhorst jr., Jerry Burbes, Kent Keiser, and Todd Joerling
Back row left to right: Josh Kohrs, Nick Wilfong, Ben Walker, Kevin Sahrmann, Andy Walker, Paul James, Mike Stevener, and Chad Thorpe
Back row left to right: Josh Kohrs, Nick Wilfong, Ben Walker, Kevin Sahrmann, Andy Walker, Paul James, Mike Stevener, and Chad Thorpe
Preston Aldridge 2008
Preston Aldridge graduated from Francis Howell in 2008. He spent part of his freshmen year on the varsity and 3 full seasons on the varsity. The 2008 team finished 2nd in the State. In the Semi final game Preston homered and doubled and then early in the championship game he had to be carried off the field as he tore his hamstring going back on a ball in centerfield at Drury University in Springfield. He had to be carried off the field and was a major blow to the Vikings hopes of winning the State Championship.
In 2006 Preston was 1st Team All conference, and 2nd Team All State and All Metro. In 2007 he was 1st Team All Conference as well as being Co-Player of they year with Tim Melville. He was also 1st Team All Metro and All State. Preston was also an Honorable Mention All American that year. In 2008 he was on the All Tournament team for the Midwest Classic, 1st Team All Conference, All Metro, and All State. Preston Aldridge was a High School All American 1st Teamer in 2008.
Preston has left his name in numerous places in our school records and also in the state record books. As of 2013 he is 1st in Saves in a career with 7, 2nd in saves in a season with 4, intentional walks with 3, 3rd in Walks in a career with 37, Home runs in a career with 16, Home runs in a season with 6 and Batting average in a season with a .495 average. He is 4th in Batting averave for a career at .442, triples in a season with 3, triples in a career with 7, and sacrifices with 8. Preston is 5th in hits for a career at 121, RBI's in a career at 91, and runs scored career with 80. Preston is 6th in on base percentage at .513, and home runs in a season at 6. He is also 11th in hits for a season with 42.
In 2006 Preston was 1st Team All conference, and 2nd Team All State and All Metro. In 2007 he was 1st Team All Conference as well as being Co-Player of they year with Tim Melville. He was also 1st Team All Metro and All State. Preston was also an Honorable Mention All American that year. In 2008 he was on the All Tournament team for the Midwest Classic, 1st Team All Conference, All Metro, and All State. Preston Aldridge was a High School All American 1st Teamer in 2008.
Preston has left his name in numerous places in our school records and also in the state record books. As of 2013 he is 1st in Saves in a career with 7, 2nd in saves in a season with 4, intentional walks with 3, 3rd in Walks in a career with 37, Home runs in a career with 16, Home runs in a season with 6 and Batting average in a season with a .495 average. He is 4th in Batting averave for a career at .442, triples in a season with 3, triples in a career with 7, and sacrifices with 8. Preston is 5th in hits for a career at 121, RBI's in a career at 91, and runs scored career with 80. Preston is 6th in on base percentage at .513, and home runs in a season at 6. He is also 11th in hits for a season with 42.
James Allen 2008
James Allen graduated from Francis Howell in 2008. He was a 3 year starter for the varsity, spending most of the time at shortstop until his senior year when he concentrated on pitching. He was the ace of the staff that earned a 2nd place finish in state in 2008. He earned the win in the semi final against SLUH in relief.
After graduating James accepted a scholarship to play baseball at Kansas State. He had a phenomenal career there and was an All American there. He left the school with the career saves record for them. After his Junior year he was drafted by the Cinncinati Reds and is still pitching in thier minor leagues at this time.
In 2007 James was 1st team All Conference, 2nd Team All Metro, and 2nd Team All State. His senior year he was the MVP of the Midwest Classic, 1st Team All Conference, 1st Team All metro, 1st Team All State and was named a 2nd Team All American. As of 2013 in our school records he ranks 5th in Batting Average for a career at .436, 5th in Assists for a season at 60, and 9th in At Bats in a season with 107.
After graduating James accepted a scholarship to play baseball at Kansas State. He had a phenomenal career there and was an All American there. He left the school with the career saves record for them. After his Junior year he was drafted by the Cinncinati Reds and is still pitching in thier minor leagues at this time.
In 2007 James was 1st team All Conference, 2nd Team All Metro, and 2nd Team All State. His senior year he was the MVP of the Midwest Classic, 1st Team All Conference, 1st Team All metro, 1st Team All State and was named a 2nd Team All American. As of 2013 in our school records he ranks 5th in Batting Average for a career at .436, 5th in Assists for a season at 60, and 9th in At Bats in a season with 107.
Tim Avants 2005
Tim Avants graduated from high school in 2005 from Francis Howell. Tim was a part of a very talented 2005 class, many of his teammates have already been inducted into the hall of fame. Early on as a sophomore on the varsity team, he saw most of his action as a pinch runner. Later in his sophomore season, he had the opportunity to play and start in games. His best action came late in the season when he had a bunt base hit to win the Sectional playoff game bringing home his brother, Dan Avants, to win the game.
The 2003 team later went on to win the state championship where Tim hit a ball off the plate and was athletic enough to beat it out with his lightning speed. Tim was selected 1st team All State, All Conference, and All Metro throughout his career. Tim was a tri-sport athlete playing football and basketball along with baseball. Tim was awarded the U.S. Army Reserve National Scholar Athlete Award in 2005.
After high school, Tim accepted a scholarship to play for Northwest Missouri State, a division II baseball school. Tim now resides in Chicago, IL where he teaches high school and is currently enrolled in graduate school to finish his MBA
The 2003 team later went on to win the state championship where Tim hit a ball off the plate and was athletic enough to beat it out with his lightning speed. Tim was selected 1st team All State, All Conference, and All Metro throughout his career. Tim was a tri-sport athlete playing football and basketball along with baseball. Tim was awarded the U.S. Army Reserve National Scholar Athlete Award in 2005.
After high school, Tim accepted a scholarship to play for Northwest Missouri State, a division II baseball school. Tim now resides in Chicago, IL where he teaches high school and is currently enrolled in graduate school to finish his MBA
Roger Banze 1964
Roger Banze graduated from Francis Howell in 1965. He was probably one of the hardest throwers to ever come out of our school and the St. Louis area. He was a mid 90's guy that was drafted out of High School. He was drafted by the Pittsburgh Pirates and spent 5 years in their minor league organization. There is a story of Roger and Nolan Ryan hooking up in the minors. Later in Roger's career he suffered an arm injury that ended his playing days.
After his playing days were over, like most quality baseball people, he turned to coaching where his grass roots were. He coached for 4 years for the C&H legion team. During his tenure as a coach, C&H won 2 state championships. During this time he also coached in the Metro Collegiate League for 2 years. Players of this era can only imagine the blazing fastball of Roger Banze.
After his playing days were over, like most quality baseball people, he turned to coaching where his grass roots were. He coached for 4 years for the C&H legion team. During his tenure as a coach, C&H won 2 state championships. During this time he also coached in the Metro Collegiate League for 2 years. Players of this era can only imagine the blazing fastball of Roger Banze.
Dale Banze 1984
Gary Barklage 1977
Gary Barklage graduated from Francis Howell in 1977. Gary was inducted into our Hall of Fame in 2005. He was a 3 year varsity starter for head coach Jerry Burbes. During his illusturous career he accomplished many feats.
In 1976 he was an All Conference, as well as All District shortstop. During his summers of he played with Post 313 American Legion team ,where he was named the MVP of the league in 1976. He had a great '77 year as he was named All Conference shortstop and was an All District pitcher. That year he was 4-0 and had a 1.06 era. He was also a career .400 hitter.
After his High School days he played with C&H's EMBA team for 10 years. He spent his last 12 years of playing in the fast pitch league where he played for St. Charles Lanes.
In 1976 he was an All Conference, as well as All District shortstop. During his summers of he played with Post 313 American Legion team ,where he was named the MVP of the league in 1976. He had a great '77 year as he was named All Conference shortstop and was an All District pitcher. That year he was 4-0 and had a 1.06 era. He was also a career .400 hitter.
After his High School days he played with C&H's EMBA team for 10 years. He spent his last 12 years of playing in the fast pitch league where he played for St. Charles Lanes.
Tony Bishop 1983
Tony Bishop graduated from Francis Howell in 1983. He was pitcher that dominated in the summer especially. After graduating from Howell he threw for Merramec for a a bit. He was undefeated in the summer and during his Legion days he won 24 games in a row which broke a Legion record that was held by Rollie Fingers.
He became a policeman in St. Charles and now is retiirted and lives at the lake where he makes wooden fishing lures that he sells throughout the country.
He became a policeman in St. Charles and now is retiirted and lives at the lake where he makes wooden fishing lures that he sells throughout the country.
Austin Buenemann 2008
Austin Buenemann graduated in 2008 from Francis Howell. Most of his games were played pitching or playing in the outfield. He pitched a complete game shutout in the district finals and hit a home run in both that game and in the sectionals. He pitched another shutout 3 days later to advance to the final four. He pitched in 5 of the 6 shutouts that spring.
Austin is in the record books as #4 with an ERA of 0.93 in 2008 and #1 for 17 consecutive innings pitched without allowing a run. He was the starting pitcher of the State Championship game in 2008 where the Vikings took second after losing 3-2 to Ozark.
Austin was a member of the All Academic Team, 1st Team All State, and 2nd team All GAC. He graduated from Mizzou with a degree in finance and is currently living in Trenton, MO. Austin and his wife Molly are expecting their first child in September. Austin was not able to attend the ceremony due to their expected child but both his parents were there to represent him. On a side note, his mom should go into the Hall of Fame as the best pacer in Howell history.
Austin is in the record books as #4 with an ERA of 0.93 in 2008 and #1 for 17 consecutive innings pitched without allowing a run. He was the starting pitcher of the State Championship game in 2008 where the Vikings took second after losing 3-2 to Ozark.
Austin was a member of the All Academic Team, 1st Team All State, and 2nd team All GAC. He graduated from Mizzou with a degree in finance and is currently living in Trenton, MO. Austin and his wife Molly are expecting their first child in September. Austin was not able to attend the ceremony due to their expected child but both his parents were there to represent him. On a side note, his mom should go into the Hall of Fame as the best pacer in Howell history.
Jerry Burbes 1964
Jerry Burbes graduated from Francis Howell in 1964. Jerry was a four year starter on the Viking baseball team from 1961-1964. He played second base and shortstop. Their team record was 34-7. In 1963 their team advanced to the Final Four. This was the first Francis Howell team in any sport to advance to a State Championship. Jerry was the leadoff batter, averaging .300 plus all four years. He stole 40 bases in his career and was never thrown out. Jerry was also a three year starter in basketball at Francis Howell.
Jerry graduated from the University of Missouri, where he played third base his freshman year. He returned to Francis Howell in the fall of 1968 where he was a volunteer coach for the Vikings under Ken Dyson in the spring of 1969. He became the head baseball coach in 1970, coaching the Vikings to a Conference Title in 1971.
Jerry went into the Army from June 1971 to May 1973. He then coached Viking baseball teams from 1973 to 1981. His ten year coaching record was 126-76 with six Conference Titles, three District Championships, and two Sectional Finals appearances.
Jerry became Francis Howell High School's Athletic Director in 1976. He retired from coaching in 1981 due to the demands of the activities position. In 1987 he was appointed as the District Activities Director. Jerry retired in 1998 as Associate Superintendent of Student Services.
Jerry managed the first two Daniel Boone Legion teams in 1990 and 1991. He later assisted the program in 1993-1995.
Jerry has been married for 31 years to Connie Rauch Burbes. They have four children, Brian (30), Craig (26), Carrie (23), and Matt (22). Brian was the winning pitcher in the semi final game of the 1991 Final Four team. Craig was a pitcher for the 1993 Final Four team.
Jerry graduated from the University of Missouri, where he played third base his freshman year. He returned to Francis Howell in the fall of 1968 where he was a volunteer coach for the Vikings under Ken Dyson in the spring of 1969. He became the head baseball coach in 1970, coaching the Vikings to a Conference Title in 1971.
Jerry went into the Army from June 1971 to May 1973. He then coached Viking baseball teams from 1973 to 1981. His ten year coaching record was 126-76 with six Conference Titles, three District Championships, and two Sectional Finals appearances.
Jerry became Francis Howell High School's Athletic Director in 1976. He retired from coaching in 1981 due to the demands of the activities position. In 1987 he was appointed as the District Activities Director. Jerry retired in 1998 as Associate Superintendent of Student Services.
Jerry managed the first two Daniel Boone Legion teams in 1990 and 1991. He later assisted the program in 1993-1995.
Jerry has been married for 31 years to Connie Rauch Burbes. They have four children, Brian (30), Craig (26), Carrie (23), and Matt (22). Brian was the winning pitcher in the semi final game of the 1991 Final Four team. Craig was a pitcher for the 1993 Final Four team.
Brian Burbess 1991
Brian Burbes entered the Francis Howell Baseball Hall of Fame in 2012. He becomes the 2nd father son duo to be inducted into the Hall of Fame. He graduated from Francis Howell High School in 1991.
Brian was a 3 year varsity starter for the Vikings being a left handed pitcher. During his 3 years on the Varsity, 1989, 1990, and 1991 the Vikings were Gateway Athletic Champions all 3 years. The 1991 team were also District Champions and that team made it to the final four where they finished second in the Class 4A Championship series. The 1991 trip to the final four was only the second trip for the Vikings there. Ironically they last time the Vikings were there was 1963 which his dad, Jerry, was a player on. The sectional game in 1991 Brian started the game and then was lifted and then the rains came, a couple of days later play was resumed and Brian earned not only the win but was reentered and earned the save as well. Don't see that one happen too often. He was also the winning pitchers verse CBC in the State Semi-Final game.
Brian was know for his sweet pick off move. Through his junior and senior year of High School ball and legion ball with Daniel Boone his father shared that he picked off 45 base runners. He played for the Daniel Boone Legion team for 4 years. Brian was also a football and a wrestler at Howell for the 4 years that he was there. After High School he attended and played baseball at Rend Lake for one season.Danny Johnson was at the event to help welcome Brian into the Hall of Fame as he was the other lefty that got us to that final four. Chris Daley the catcher for both of them also showed up for the event. A lot of memories were rehashed. Brian has been married to his wife DeeDee for nine years.
Brian was a 3 year varsity starter for the Vikings being a left handed pitcher. During his 3 years on the Varsity, 1989, 1990, and 1991 the Vikings were Gateway Athletic Champions all 3 years. The 1991 team were also District Champions and that team made it to the final four where they finished second in the Class 4A Championship series. The 1991 trip to the final four was only the second trip for the Vikings there. Ironically they last time the Vikings were there was 1963 which his dad, Jerry, was a player on. The sectional game in 1991 Brian started the game and then was lifted and then the rains came, a couple of days later play was resumed and Brian earned not only the win but was reentered and earned the save as well. Don't see that one happen too often. He was also the winning pitchers verse CBC in the State Semi-Final game.
Brian was know for his sweet pick off move. Through his junior and senior year of High School ball and legion ball with Daniel Boone his father shared that he picked off 45 base runners. He played for the Daniel Boone Legion team for 4 years. Brian was also a football and a wrestler at Howell for the 4 years that he was there. After High School he attended and played baseball at Rend Lake for one season.Danny Johnson was at the event to help welcome Brian into the Hall of Fame as he was the other lefty that got us to that final four. Chris Daley the catcher for both of them also showed up for the event. A lot of memories were rehashed. Brian has been married to his wife DeeDee for nine years.
Darin Cissell 1993
Darin Cissell graduated from Howell in 1993. He and Chad Thorpe are the only 2 players that we are aware of that played in 2 final fours, in 1991 and 1993. During his prep career he was a 1st Team All Conference player as well as a 1st Team All metro player. He proceeded his playing days with Howell at Meramec Juco where he played in 2 Junior College World Series. From there accepted a scholarship to St. Louis University where he starred. He had a nasty ankle break his last game at SLU, but it did not turn the professional leagues away.
The San Francisco Giants drafted him in the 18th round and he spent a couple of years in their organization. After 13 surgeries his playing days are over. He recently accepted a teaching position in the Howell district and teaches PE and Health at Bryan Middle School. Darin is an assistant coach in our program and the experience that he brings to our program is invaluable. Coach Cissell is married to Amy.
The San Francisco Giants drafted him in the 18th round and he spent a couple of years in their organization. After 13 surgeries his playing days are over. He recently accepted a teaching position in the Howell district and teaches PE and Health at Bryan Middle School. Darin is an assistant coach in our program and the experience that he brings to our program is invaluable. Coach Cissell is married to Amy.
Cleat Davis 1997
Cleat Davis graduated from Francis Howell in 1997. Cleat was one of the smoothest lefties to ever come through the program. He holds several pitching records for the program. He was a guy that you could pretty much count on getting 5 plus innings and striking out 10. He holds the season strike out record at 105, as well as the career K's with 161. He hogs the complete game records as well. In '97 he threw 7 complete games and had 12 in his career.
In 1997 Cleat was the ace of the staff that made it to the state championship game. He got the nod in the semi-final game and pitched one of the best games in Howell history. It was against SLUH and he matched up against a tough rightie by the name of Parker. The Vikings won the game in 9 innings, 2-1. Cleat pitched the complete game victory. He was named first team all conference, first team, all metro, and first team all state. He was also selected to throw in the Senior All Star game.
Cleat attempted to continue his career at St. Charles Community College but things did not work out for him.
In 1997 Cleat was the ace of the staff that made it to the state championship game. He got the nod in the semi-final game and pitched one of the best games in Howell history. It was against SLUH and he matched up against a tough rightie by the name of Parker. The Vikings won the game in 9 innings, 2-1. Cleat pitched the complete game victory. He was named first team all conference, first team, all metro, and first team all state. He was also selected to throw in the Senior All Star game.
Cleat attempted to continue his career at St. Charles Community College but things did not work out for him.
Steven Diel 2011
Steven was primarily a starter but also threw in relief when needed. He still holds many records in the Howell baseball program including 3rd in pitching wins in a season with 8, 3rd in pitching wins over his career with 16, 5th in appearances with 15 and 2nd in appearances over his career with 38. He was dominant in 5 relief appearances in the 2011 State Championship game in Springfield, MO. He is the 5th member of our State championship 2011 class to enter into our Francis Howell Baseball Hall of Fame.
Upon graduating from Francis Howell, Steven attended Jefferson College for two years. During his first year at Jeff Co, Steven helped his team to the Junior College World Series where they finished 4th in the nation. After completing his career at Jeff Co, Steven transferred and joined his Howell teammates Brett Graves, Case Munson, Jake Ivory & Brett Peel on the Mizzou Baseball team. Steven redshirted his first season at Mizzou and then ultimately decided to end his baseball career to pursue his degree in Fisheries and Wildlife Sciences.
Steven currently lives in O’Fallon, MO with his wife Claudia and two dogs, Remi & Hank. They are expecting their first child in September. Some of Steven’s best memories and friends were those he made during his time as a member of the Francis Howell baseball program.
Upon graduating from Francis Howell, Steven attended Jefferson College for two years. During his first year at Jeff Co, Steven helped his team to the Junior College World Series where they finished 4th in the nation. After completing his career at Jeff Co, Steven transferred and joined his Howell teammates Brett Graves, Case Munson, Jake Ivory & Brett Peel on the Mizzou Baseball team. Steven redshirted his first season at Mizzou and then ultimately decided to end his baseball career to pursue his degree in Fisheries and Wildlife Sciences.
Steven currently lives in O’Fallon, MO with his wife Claudia and two dogs, Remi & Hank. They are expecting their first child in September. Some of Steven’s best memories and friends were those he made during his time as a member of the Francis Howell baseball program.
Eli Dilday 2014
Eli Dilday transferred to Howell his Junior year where he helped the Vikings win a 2013 State Championship. Eli was first team all-state and honorable mention all-American his junior year and broke the Howell double record. In 2014, as a Senior, Eli played for another State Title but came in as the runner up. He made first team all-state, first team all-american and broke his own double record in 2014. He also homered in both the 2013 and 2014 state final games. Eli is one of the few players who had the honor of playing alongside all four of the Perkins brothers in his time at Howell.
Here is where Eli ranks on our schools record lists. Remember that he put these number in only 2 years of participation. 10th in for Batting average in a season at .450, 6th place in Career with a .441 average. 10th place in On Bae in a season and 8th place in career. Eli is tied for 2nd place in Hits in season wth fellow inductee Nic Perkins with 58. He is also 7th and tied with Case Munson, career he is 10th. RBI's in a season he is 6th tied with Justin Perkins and Daltaon Grantham. Runs scored in a season he tied for 1st with Justin Perkins with 54, career he is 7th. Home runs in a season he is 4th tied with Josh Golliver and career he is 4th with 14. Triples in a season he is 5th tied with 7 guys. Doubles he is 1st and 2nd with with 19 and 17, career he is 2nd with 36. Stolen bases in a season he 9th tied with Kyle Grantham and Dwayne Daggs.
After high School, Eli went on a baseball scholarship to the University of Nebraska where he played for two years before transferring to Central Missouri where he finished his athletic and academic career. Eli received a degree in Marketing from UCM in 2018. He still goes over to the Perkins household whenever he is in town to talk about the good ole days of Howell Baseball.
Here is where Eli ranks on our schools record lists. Remember that he put these number in only 2 years of participation. 10th in for Batting average in a season at .450, 6th place in Career with a .441 average. 10th place in On Bae in a season and 8th place in career. Eli is tied for 2nd place in Hits in season wth fellow inductee Nic Perkins with 58. He is also 7th and tied with Case Munson, career he is 10th. RBI's in a season he is 6th tied with Justin Perkins and Daltaon Grantham. Runs scored in a season he tied for 1st with Justin Perkins with 54, career he is 7th. Home runs in a season he is 4th tied with Josh Golliver and career he is 4th with 14. Triples in a season he is 5th tied with 7 guys. Doubles he is 1st and 2nd with with 19 and 17, career he is 2nd with 36. Stolen bases in a season he 9th tied with Kyle Grantham and Dwayne Daggs.
After high School, Eli went on a baseball scholarship to the University of Nebraska where he played for two years before transferring to Central Missouri where he finished his athletic and academic career. Eli received a degree in Marketing from UCM in 2018. He still goes over to the Perkins household whenever he is in town to talk about the good ole days of Howell Baseball.
Steve Eberhardt 2001
Steven Eberhardt graduated in 2001. He was called up as a sophomore to play varsity ball. He was part of the State Final Four team in 1999. His accomplishments that year were 1ST Team All GAC, 2ND Team All Metro, and 2ND Team All State. His junior year he was named 1ST Team All GAC, and Honorable Mention All Metro. He Finished his career with another 1ST Team All GAC, 1ST Team All Metro, and 1ST Team All State. Steve may be the only player in Howell's history to earn first team all conference 3 years in a row. He left Howell with two records witch are hits for a career and is currently the holder for hits in a season with 43 (tied with Greg Rodgers). He was also fortunate to play in the senior High School All-Star game in 2001.
Some other accomplishments outside his high school career where he was a 4-year 1ST Team All Star for the Daniel Boone Legion team. He was also on a select team picked by Tony Perkins, Gary Dunahue, and Peter Eberhardt Jr. to go to Hawaii and play ball. Along with several Howell players, two from Howell North, and one player from Lafayette, a tournament which they won. In the fall of 2001 he attended Lewis and Clark Community College in Alton, Illinois. He played in the fall, but when the spring season rolled around he was diagnosed with tendinitis in his right knee witch kept him from playing that year. He now continues his education at Saint Charles Community College and is currently working on his Associates Degree in Education. He is the current manager for the Daniel Boone Jr. Legion team and plans to be the manager for a while.
Some other accomplishments outside his high school career where he was a 4-year 1ST Team All Star for the Daniel Boone Legion team. He was also on a select team picked by Tony Perkins, Gary Dunahue, and Peter Eberhardt Jr. to go to Hawaii and play ball. Along with several Howell players, two from Howell North, and one player from Lafayette, a tournament which they won. In the fall of 2001 he attended Lewis and Clark Community College in Alton, Illinois. He played in the fall, but when the spring season rolled around he was diagnosed with tendinitis in his right knee witch kept him from playing that year. He now continues his education at Saint Charles Community College and is currently working on his Associates Degree in Education. He is the current manager for the Daniel Boone Jr. Legion team and plans to be the manager for a while.
Ryan Edwards1 995
Ryan Edwards graduated from Francis Howell in 1995. During his prep career he played in 1 final four and a quarter final game. In 1993 as a sophomore he got the start on the hill for the Vikings in the 3rd place game and earned the victory. In 1995 he had the honor of possibly throwing the only perfect game in Howells history. He won that game 1-0 against Wentzville. He also twirled a couple other no hitters while at Howell. Ryan earned 1st team All Conference, 1st team All Metro, and 1st team All State honors during his High School career. He was also selected to play in the Missouri Senior All Star game in 1995 and threw in that game at the University of Missouri.
Ryan was also the starting quarterback on the football team. He currently holds 2 records of our program. In 1994 he had an eye popping earned run average of .30. The career earned run average record is also Ryan's, as he posted a .88 career era.
Shortly after graduating Ryan hurt his arm and after 2 surgeries never fully recovered. He earned a scholarship to Meramec Junior College where he competed and after his career there continued his career at Southern Illinois University at Edwardsville. Currently Ryan is finishing up his degree at the University of Phoenix. He is also engaged and scheduled to be married to fiancé Toni, in the spring of 2004.
Ryan was also the starting quarterback on the football team. He currently holds 2 records of our program. In 1994 he had an eye popping earned run average of .30. The career earned run average record is also Ryan's, as he posted a .88 career era.
Shortly after graduating Ryan hurt his arm and after 2 surgeries never fully recovered. He earned a scholarship to Meramec Junior College where he competed and after his career there continued his career at Southern Illinois University at Edwardsville. Currently Ryan is finishing up his degree at the University of Phoenix. He is also engaged and scheduled to be married to fiancé Toni, in the spring of 2004.
Greg Faron 1987
Greg Faron graduated from Francis Howell in 1987 and was a three year starter for the Vikings at the varsity level. He was second team all conference shortstop as a sophomore and first team all conference third basemen as a senior. During the summer, Greg played for the C&H American Legion Team. Upon graduating, Greg attended Southwest Missouri State and played baseball for four years where he earned All MCC First Team and tournament team in 1990.
Joe Faron 1981
Joe Faron attended Francis Howell High School and played baseball from 1978-1981. In his Senior year on a team that finished with a 19-5 record, the team won the Gateway Athletic Conference Title and were also District Nine champions. Joe was voted Co-MVP by his teammates and also selected as a first team All Conference player in the GAC. After high schook, he continued his baseball career at Mineral Area Junior College, where he received his Associate of Arts Degree. He then transferred to Southwest Missouri State, which is now Missouri State, where he finished up his playing days. He Graduated from SMS and has a Bachelor's degree in Finance.
Jeff Fincham 1993
Jeff Fincham graduated from Francis Howell in 1991. Jeff was inducted into the Hall of Fame in 2012. He was a 2 year varsity starter at second base for head coach Terry Kasper. During his years as a starter he helps lead the Vikings to Gateway Athletic Conference Champions in 1990 and 1991. The 1991 team were district champions and that team made it the Final Four finishing second place in Class 4A Championship. Jeff, as co-captain, helped lead the Vikings to state for the first time in 28years.
Jeff's illustrious career accomplished many feats and still holds the single season record for most sacrifice bunts. Jeff played the game as the ultimate throw back player with every pitch and game on the line. There were not many players in Francis Howells history that played the game harder than Jeff Fincham. He was also at an advantage as he was a swith hitter. Jeff went on to play at Rend Lake Junior college for one season. Also, he played for Daniel Boone American Legion. Jeff finished is college career at the University of North Carolina at Charlotte.
Jeff now resides back in St. Charles and works in the Sales and Management field.
Jeff's illustrious career accomplished many feats and still holds the single season record for most sacrifice bunts. Jeff played the game as the ultimate throw back player with every pitch and game on the line. There were not many players in Francis Howells history that played the game harder than Jeff Fincham. He was also at an advantage as he was a swith hitter. Jeff went on to play at Rend Lake Junior college for one season. Also, he played for Daniel Boone American Legion. Jeff finished is college career at the University of North Carolina at Charlotte.
Jeff now resides back in St. Charles and works in the Sales and Management field.
Kyle Grantham 2017
Kyle Grantham is a 2017 graduate of Francis Howell and a 2022 inductee into the Hall of Fame. He spent two years on varsity and was a part of the 2016 State Championship team. He played in the outfield for his two seasons on varsity, hitting at the top of the lineup. The highlight of his career was hitting two solo home runs in the 2016 state semi-final game to move on to the championship, which he had two bunt hits. Classic Francis Howell baseball. During his time at Howell, Kyle received All Conference, All Metro, All State and All American Honors. Kyle is one of three Grantham brothers to play at Howell, with brother Ryan a 2015 graduate and Dalton a 2019 graduate.
Kyle is etched all over our Francis Howell Baseball Records. 1st in Batting average for a season at .523 and 8th with a .465 BA. 1st in Batting average for a career with a .496. Kyle is 6th in On Base Percentage with a .595 and 10th with a .531. He is 3rd in On Base in a career with a .558., 2nd in Hits in a season with 60 and 5th with 56 tied with Brendand Trimble. Kyle is 7th in Hits in a career wiith 116. At Bats in a season he is 5th with 129 tied with Zac Perkins and Eli Dilday and 21st with 107 tied with James Allen, Jake Ivory, and Brady Wildschuetz, Kyle is 5th in Runs scored in a season with 47 tied with Matt Schark and 11th with 37 tied with Nic Perkins and Justin Perkins. He is 10th in Runs scored in a career with 84. 5th in Triples in a season tied with Brett Peel, Clalvin Munson, Sam Maddox, Brady Hultman, and Jake McCutcheon., 3rd in Triples in a career with 10. Doubles in a season he is 6th with 13 and career is 8th with 24 tied with Jake McCutcheon. 11th in Stolen Bases with 16 tied with Eli Dilday, Dwayne Daggs, and Jake McCutcheon. Walks in a season he is 11th tied with Nate Orf, Ben Cook, Nick Perkins, and brother Dalton Grantham. Kyle is 6th with 6 Sacrifices tied with Matt Riffee, Joey Land, and Brady Wildchuetz.
After graduation, Kyle spent a short time as a walk-on at Mizzou before hanging it up. He later graduated from Mizzou with future career plans undecided.
Kyle is etched all over our Francis Howell Baseball Records. 1st in Batting average for a season at .523 and 8th with a .465 BA. 1st in Batting average for a career with a .496. Kyle is 6th in On Base Percentage with a .595 and 10th with a .531. He is 3rd in On Base in a career with a .558., 2nd in Hits in a season with 60 and 5th with 56 tied with Brendand Trimble. Kyle is 7th in Hits in a career wiith 116. At Bats in a season he is 5th with 129 tied with Zac Perkins and Eli Dilday and 21st with 107 tied with James Allen, Jake Ivory, and Brady Wildschuetz, Kyle is 5th in Runs scored in a season with 47 tied with Matt Schark and 11th with 37 tied with Nic Perkins and Justin Perkins. He is 10th in Runs scored in a career with 84. 5th in Triples in a season tied with Brett Peel, Clalvin Munson, Sam Maddox, Brady Hultman, and Jake McCutcheon., 3rd in Triples in a career with 10. Doubles in a season he is 6th with 13 and career is 8th with 24 tied with Jake McCutcheon. 11th in Stolen Bases with 16 tied with Eli Dilday, Dwayne Daggs, and Jake McCutcheon. Walks in a season he is 11th tied with Nate Orf, Ben Cook, Nick Perkins, and brother Dalton Grantham. Kyle is 6th with 6 Sacrifices tied with Matt Riffee, Joey Land, and Brady Wildchuetz.
After graduation, Kyle spent a short time as a walk-on at Mizzou before hanging it up. He later graduated from Mizzou with future career plans undecided.
Ryan Grantham 2015
Ryan Grantham is a 2015 graduate of Francis Howell and a 2026 inductee into the Hall of Fame. He spent two years on varsity and was a part of the 2014 Final Four team team. He played all over the infield and hit all over the order in his time oat Howell. The highlight of his career was hitting the first ever home run at the new Francis Howell Stadium in his junior season. The rest of his career was defined by getting on base with bunt hits, stealing bases, and playing wherever he was needed. Ryan received All Conference honors in both his Junior and Senior years. During his time at Howell, Ryan played 3 years of Varsity Soccer and 2 years of Varsity Basketball in addition to baseball. Ryan also spent his sophomore season playing basketball for Coach Perkins. Ryan is the oldest of the Grantham brothers to play at Howell and is joining Kyle (2017) in the Hall of Fame.
After graduation, Ryan went to the University of Missouri and has been working at Boeing for the past 8 years. Ryan is married to Abby, and has 3 children, Brooks- (4), Hayes (2), and Palmer (3 months).
After graduation, Ryan went to the University of Missouri and has been working at Boeing for the past 8 years. Ryan is married to Abby, and has 3 children, Brooks- (4), Hayes (2), and Palmer (3 months).
Brett Graves 2011
Brett Graves is the son of Scott and Mary Graves. He is a graduate of the 2011 team that went 32-3 and were state champions. When he graduated he left with a ton of records. Besides at one time owning our career hit record he was the ace of our staff. When he was not dealing on the mound he played shortstop and first base for the Vikings. #5 was a 3 years starter for the Vikings. He accepted a scholarship to play at the University of Missouri and was drafted by the Oakland A's after his junior year and entered into the minors where he is currently still pitching for the Stockton Ports.
Here is where he sits on our records page in our hitting categories: Brett is second in career hits with 137, career average .455.and career runs 116. He is 3rd in OBA career .547. and singles in career 97. Brett is 4th in season average with a .477.doubles in a career 29, HBP in career 17, and walks in a career. He is 5th in hits in a season 52, triples in a season 3, and stolen bases for his career with 42. Brett is 6th in runs in a season 45, home runs in a season 6, doubles in a son with 12, and stolen bases in a season 19. He is 9th in runs in a season 40, and walks in a season with 15, 11th in at bats in a season 111, 13th in season average .444.
Here is where Brett sits on our pitching records: 2nd in wins for a season with 9 and career starts with 24. He is also 4th in wins for a career with 15 and appearances for his career with 32. Defensively he appears on our record page as well as he is 3rd with assists in a career with 173, 4th with assists in a season, and 11th in assists in a season with 54.
Brett was recently married to his high school sweetheart Maddie. The wedding had quite a baseball representation especially from the 2011 team.
Here is where he sits on our records page in our hitting categories: Brett is second in career hits with 137, career average .455.and career runs 116. He is 3rd in OBA career .547. and singles in career 97. Brett is 4th in season average with a .477.doubles in a career 29, HBP in career 17, and walks in a career. He is 5th in hits in a season 52, triples in a season 3, and stolen bases for his career with 42. Brett is 6th in runs in a season 45, home runs in a season 6, doubles in a son with 12, and stolen bases in a season 19. He is 9th in runs in a season 40, and walks in a season with 15, 11th in at bats in a season 111, 13th in season average .444.
Here is where Brett sits on our pitching records: 2nd in wins for a season with 9 and career starts with 24. He is also 4th in wins for a career with 15 and appearances for his career with 32. Defensively he appears on our record page as well as he is 3rd with assists in a career with 173, 4th with assists in a season, and 11th in assists in a season with 54.
Brett was recently married to his high school sweetheart Maddie. The wedding had quite a baseball representation especially from the 2011 team.
Zack Gronek 2008
Zack Gronek graduated from Francis Howell in 2008. He was a two year starting pitcher with an 11-1 record in those two years. As the ace and workhorse of the staff in his senior year, Zack compiled an 8-0 record with a 2.21 ERA and four complet games in seven starts. He pitched a team high 50 2/3 innings with 33 strikeouts and 14 walks. He was the winning pitcher in the state final four semi final game for the team that finished 2nd in state in 2008.
After gdraduating, Zack went on to become the most decorated pitcher in the history of the Missouri University of Science and Technology baseball program. He finished his D-2 college career with a record of 26-10 while setting 12 team pitching records, including wins, innings pitched, and strikeouts.
Missouri S&T has won a total of three post season games in their history. Gronek was the winning pitcher in each of those contests, including their only NCAA victory. In that game, Zack threw a five hit shutout with seven strikeouts in a 2-0 victory over defending national champion Southern Indiana.
In 2008, Gronek received 1st team All State honors as well as being named to the GAC All-Academic team. In college, Zack ws awarded 1st team All FLVC and All Region honors twice each.
After serving one year as a student assistant on the Missouri S&T coaching staff, Gronek graduated with a degree in Mechanical Engineering.
After gdraduating, Zack went on to become the most decorated pitcher in the history of the Missouri University of Science and Technology baseball program. He finished his D-2 college career with a record of 26-10 while setting 12 team pitching records, including wins, innings pitched, and strikeouts.
Missouri S&T has won a total of three post season games in their history. Gronek was the winning pitcher in each of those contests, including their only NCAA victory. In that game, Zack threw a five hit shutout with seven strikeouts in a 2-0 victory over defending national champion Southern Indiana.
In 2008, Gronek received 1st team All State honors as well as being named to the GAC All-Academic team. In college, Zack ws awarded 1st team All FLVC and All Region honors twice each.
After serving one year as a student assistant on the Missouri S&T coaching staff, Gronek graduated with a degree in Mechanical Engineering.
Ralph "Buck" Hachman 1964
Buck Hachmann graduated from Francis Howell in 1964. He was the ace of the staff that went to the final four in 1963. He was a hard throwing lefty that could be counted on going out getting a W for the Vikings. The most memorable experience that he had was the 1963 season where the team was able to place in the top four schools in Missouri. In those days there were not any classifications and all schools that participated in baseball where in one state tournament, where one team would prevail in the state. He was very proud of what the team was able to accomplish that year.
Buck would like to mention their head coach, Ron Leonard. Baseball was not Coach Leonards preferable sport, but he had very good coaching instincts. He was an individual that never over coached his team, but allowed the team to play with their natural ability, without pressure. Buck was proud of his coach and his team. When they needed a hit, a strikeout, a home run or a stolen base, they were able to accomplish the task and always at the right time. In places where they did not have the talent, they had the desire and that was always enough encouragement to go around from the whole team! They had a lot of fun and created great memories for their whole lives.
After High School, Buck went to Southeast Missouri State. He won the MVP award in 1966 and 1968. '68 was his final year and his best as he finished the year with a 7-0 record. He had plans in continuing his baseball career and had several offers until he was drafted by the US army and ended his dream. Those are the things that he is thankful for, the good years of friends, fun, and the memories that baseball provided.
Buck would like to mention their head coach, Ron Leonard. Baseball was not Coach Leonards preferable sport, but he had very good coaching instincts. He was an individual that never over coached his team, but allowed the team to play with their natural ability, without pressure. Buck was proud of his coach and his team. When they needed a hit, a strikeout, a home run or a stolen base, they were able to accomplish the task and always at the right time. In places where they did not have the talent, they had the desire and that was always enough encouragement to go around from the whole team! They had a lot of fun and created great memories for their whole lives.
After High School, Buck went to Southeast Missouri State. He won the MVP award in 1966 and 1968. '68 was his final year and his best as he finished the year with a 7-0 record. He had plans in continuing his baseball career and had several offers until he was drafted by the US army and ended his dream. Those are the things that he is thankful for, the good years of friends, fun, and the memories that baseball provided.
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