1955 Walter Schmidt

Walter “Walt” Schmidt – Class of 1955

Walter Schmidt, a 1955 graduate of Upper Perkiomen High School, was a standout multi-sport athlete for the Indians. A key contributor in both football and baseball, Walt played center and linebacker on the gridiron, earning varsity time as a freshman during the team’s Perkiomen Valley Championship season in 1953. On the diamond, he served as catcher and famously caught Barry Fetterman’s no-hitter against Schwenksville to secure the League Championship.

Following high school, Walt continued his athletic career at the University of Kansas, excelling in both football and baseball. He was a member of the freshman football team that defeated the inaugural Air Force Academy program, and his exceptional versatility earned him a place in the KU Hall of Fame. Walt, Olympian Al Oerter, and basketball legend Wilt Chamberlain remain the only Kansas athletes to letter in two sports for two years. Walt is also recognized in the College Football Hall of Fame for his extraordinary accomplishment of playing every position in a game and starting at every position over the course of a single season.

After earning his degree in 1959, Walt returned home to serve the Upper Perkiomen School District as a teacher for 39 years. He also dedicated himself to coaching, helping the football team to the Bux-Mont League Championship in 1966, baseball and softball to multiple league titles.

Walt is married to Ann, whom he met during his years at the University of Kansas. Together they are the proud parents of four daughters: Suzanne, Kathleen, Nancy, and Eileen.