Dennis Eckles
Dennis Eckles was a key player for the famed St. Michael’s High School basketball teams that won back-to-back state titles in 1963 and 1964.
Eckles helped the team to three consecutive state finals appearances and records of 19-7, 22-3 and 24-4. His senior year he led the team in rebounds and scored 365 points, averaging 13 points per game. He was named first team All-Erie Diocese.
He was selected to play in the Buhl Club Tournament in 1964.
Denny was also a three-year letterman in football, starting at quarterback and outside linebacker. His senior year he led the team to a 6-2 record, with both losses coming 7-6. He was named First Team All-Erie Diocese in football as well.
An outstanding golfer, he has carried a 2 handicap. He competed in the DuPont World Amateur Golf Tournament from 1992-97 and competed in the USGA Seniors, U.S. Open Qualifier and Seniors Amateur Qualifiers (4 times).
He taught junior golf at Greenville Country Club for 11 years and received the country club’s Appreciation Award for his dedication to junior golf. He was instrumental in starting the Keystone Blind Association Charity Golf Tournament which raised more than $100,000 the last eight years. He received the KBA Community Service Award in 1997.
He serves on the Greenville Business and Industry Day Committee and is also a member of the Mercer County Hall of Fame Board of Directors.
He is past board member and president of Greenville County Club.
During his sports career he also played Little League baseball, Babe Ruth baseball, Independent League basketball, softball and flag football.