Hall of Fame
For more than half a century, Richard Fry’s work at Washington State as a writer, historian and mentor is unmatched. The California native began his Cougar career in 1952 writing alumni news. In 1957, he became the sports information director the Washington State Athletic Department. In 1970, Fry took over as the director of news and information services for the Cougars. Even though he was no longer employed by the WSU Athletic Department, Fry continued to be an integral part of it. He wrote stories that appeared in the vast majority of Cougar football gameday programs well into the 21st century. Fry’s masterpiece came after his retirement in 1985. His relentless research culminated three years later with The Crimson and The Gray – 100 Years with the WSU Cougars, a book that detailed the history of Cougar student-athletes, coaches and teams. It was one of three books produced for Washington State’s 100-year anniversary, and by far the most popular.
