Tributes
July 27, 2026 2026-08-20 16:39Tributes
Tributes to the Hall of Fame Honorees
Below are the tributes and testimonials submitted by teammates, family members or student athletes for those being honored.
If you would like to add your tribute to any honoree or to the entire induction class, please click the button below
Click here to add your tributeI started with Z in 1962 as a boy, by the time I graduated as team captain in 1966, I was a man. I owe that to Ed. I saw him on and off for many years and then I moved out of town and lost touch. But he was always with me in my heart. I loved the man.
Tomi Gomory '66
Congratulations to all the Inductees. My four years on the Tech Track team still is remembered fondly as one of the best times of my life. I can't say enough about Coach Edwin Zarowin. Can you imagine how many young lives he touched in such an exceptional way? What an inspiration, mentor and exceptional leader.
Rest in Peace.
Clarence Brathwaite '78
Congratulations to all inductees. There are not enough words to describe the impact Coach Z had on my life, especially after Tech. His words of wisdom kicked in during my sophmore year in college. Those same words are still ringing in my ears today. Coach Z you were right. A coach, mentor, and disciplinarian. May GOD be pleased with your work. Rest In Power Coach Z.
James D. Lee '79.
Coaches Edwin Zarowin and Leonard Malech congratulations on your Hall of Fame induction. The guidance given, the confidence built, and the character instilled, honors your legacy that produced champions on the track and prepared us all to run the race of life! With heartfelt congratulations and gratitude.
Lt Col Donovan E. Bryan, USMC (Ret.), '75
When I think of Coach Malech, or Lenny to us in the mid 70’s, I am reminded of how he re-enforced teachings around critical thinking. His technique of addressing your questions with a question helped develop and build the critical thinking skills that I have carried throughout life.
Heyward Williams '76
Mr. Z may not have had a background in Cross Country and Track and Field, but part of his genius lay in knowing how to develop a team and talent. I joined the XC team as a scrub in my junior year, he didn't turn anyone away. Due to his encouragement and incentives I was on the varsity XC team senior year. While friends of mine tried to join the track team at their local high schools, but didn't "make the cut," Mr. Z understood that talent needs developing. What I learned from him served me well for decades after.
Fred Levine '66
Kay Moore Benjamin - Your insistence on excellence has always been a beacon to those who know you! We are so proud and happy to see you celebrated with this well-deserved honor. From Bklyn Tech to making history as the first Black woman to serve as UPenn Women's Track & Field Captain, you consistently led, inspired and blazed trails with grace, determination and a spirit that influenced others both on and off the track. It's been a privilege to witness your journey. Congratulations and much love from your UPenn Sisters
