Randy McRoberts graduated from Havre de Grace High School in 1982 and went to work in printing and production for the Harford Democrat. Shortly after starting, Randy’s interest in athletics led to an opportunity to increase his value to the paper by gathering information for the sports reporters. Eventually, Randy was asked to become a sports reporter. Within a year or so, The Aegis and the Democrat merged under Homestead Publishing.
In your years following Havre de Grace athletics, who were the movers and shakers in the area?
Answer: Sports reporter Ted Hendricks helped organize youth leagues, coached, and promoted results. At the high school level, Shawn Baker and Johnny Brooks led the way for several state finals appearances and championships in football and track.
What are the games or matches that stand out in your mind?
Answer: Havre de Grace vs. Edgewood and Aberdeen in basketball — those games were always played in front of sold-out crowds.
Havre de Grace vs. C. Milton Wright football was another great rivalry. Havre de Grace was a 1A school, while C. Milton Wright was 3A — two powerful teams of different sizes. The games were always barn burners.
Who would you consider the best athletes from Harford County?
Answer: Obviously, Cal Ripken comes to mind, but E.J. Henderson was really spectacular. On the football field, he ruled, but on the basketball court he quietly ran the floor, letting others get all the attention. I never saw Irv Pankey or Dudley Bradley play, and I barely remember Karl Edwards, but I’d say they were all at the top of their games.
Which coaches stand out as builders who were committed to the sport in the area — not just their own programs?
Answer: That’s pretty easy: Dick Slutzky, Gary Siler, and you (Keith Watson). All three of you gave your time and energy to raise the quality of wrestling across the county more than any other coaches in any other sport.
Randy is retired and lives in Conway, South Carolina, where he plays and officiates softball and spends time with his grandchildren.
