Hall of Fame
Ed Merrick came to Fork Union in 1932 and played football, basketball and baseball all three years.
In 1936, he entered the University of Richmond where he started off once again playing three sports. It wasn't long before he was regarded as "The greatest football center ever to play for the University of Richmond." He was named All-State in football in 1938 and 1939 as well as being voted the Outstanding Tackle in 1938, 1939, and 1940. Merrick was named to the All-Southern Team three years and was the first college player from the state of Virginia ever selected to the College All-Star Game.
He played with the Richmond Rebels in the Dixie League and was named to the 1st Team All-Dixie League. Merrick stared coaching the University of Richmond Freshman Football Team in 1940. He enter the U.S. Air Force in 1942 and left in 1946 as a major after receiving the Soldier's Medal for Heroism and five Battle Stars.
In 1946 he returned to FUMA as Head Football Coach and compiled a 41-10 record, defeating Columbia Military Academy's undefeated team in the Orchid Bowl in 1950.
During Merrick's 14 year reign as Head Football Coach at the University of Richmond (1951-65), his teams played the toughest schedule in the history of the University against football powers Alabama, Tennessee, Florida, West Virginia and Syracuse. He was State Coach of the Year in 1956 and State and South Carolina Coach of the Year in 1958.
He is a Charter Member of the University of Richmond's Hall of Fame.
Â
