Fred Standifer- Athlete/Coach

Fred had a long and distinguished career as an athlete, coach and educator in Ventura.  Fred graduated from Ventura High School in 1956.  As a senior, he was the first Max Houlihan Award winner.  Fred attended Ventura College from 1957-1958 where he was a three sport star, participating in football, baseball, and track.  Fred played football and ran track both years at VC and played a half year of baseball.

A rare two way player, Fred was a running back and defensive back in football, and was selected Western State Conference Honorable Mention his sophomore year.  He was also voted Team Captain.  In track, Fred ran hurdles, the 440 yard dash and pole vaulted.  Fred transferred to UCSB in 1959, where he continued playing football and ran track.

After graduating from UCSB, Fred returned to Ventura High School in 1962 as an assistant football coach for the sophomore team.  that team went 10-0 and won the league championship.  Fred served 28 years as a high school basketball official in Ventura.  he was a track starter for six years, and a teacher and coach at Ventura High School from 1962 to 1998.  Fred coached three sports in high school for eleven years, was a head football coach for three years, and was an assistant football coach for 34 years. Fred was a head track coach for 28 years (five of his atheltes made it to the State meet in hurdles).  Fred also taught Physical Education, Health Education, and Driver's Education.

Throughtout his illustrious athletic career, Fred was viewed by his peers and athletes as a role model and leader.