Hall of Fame: Art McLarney - PTHS - Class of 1928
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Forever a Hometown Hero
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Art McLarney, a standout athlete from Port Townsend High School’s Class of 1928, left an indelible mark on baseball and basketball, excelling at Washington State University before advancing to professional sports and a distinguished coaching career. Born at Fort Worden, McLarney was a multi-sport star at PTHS, playing on the undefeated 1925 basketball team as a freshman and leading the 1927 football team as a starting halfback. Coached by Leo Ziel, the team finished with an 8-1 record, outscoring opponents 244-18.
At WSU, McLarney continued his athletic success, earning All-American honors in baseball and selection to the Pacific Coast Conference all-star second team in basketball. His talents earned him a spot with the New York Giants in 1932, where he debuted on August 23. The Associated Press described him as a “sensational shortstop” and “brilliant fielder.” However, his MLB career was brief, spanning nine games with a .174 batting average. Defensively, he excelled, recording 13 putouts and 17 assists. McLarney continued in the minor leagues, playing for the Williamsport Grays (.237 AVG, 33 games) and Seattle Indians (.268 AVG, 68 games). By 1934, his playing career wound down, and he transitioned into coaching. He managed the semi-pro Bellingham team and took on teaching and coaching roles at Roosevelt High School in Seattle, serving as a PE teacher, head basketball and track coach, and assistant football coach. |
In 1946, McLarney joined the University of Washington as an assistant football and basketball coach and was named head baseball coach in 1947. That same year, he was promoted to head coach of the Huskies basketball team, leading them to a league championship and NCAA Tournament appearance in his first season.
His three-season coaching record was: • 1947–48: 23-11, league champions • 1948–49: 11-15, 5th place • 1949–50: 19-10, tied for 2nd place Overall, McLarney compiled a 53-36 record (.596 win percentage) with a 24-24 conference record. Simultaneously, he coached the UW baseball team, posting records of 9-7 (1948), 8-7 (1949), and 6-9 (1950). He resigned in 1950 at age 42 due to stress. In 1959, McLarney returned to Fort Worden as Recreation Director at the Fort Worden Diagnostic & Treatment Center. His dedication to sports continued, as he led youth basketball clinics in the community. For his contributions to athletics, he was inducted into the Washington State University Athletic Hall of Fame in 1981. Art McLarney passed away on December 20, 1984, his 76th birthday, and was laid to rest at Laurel Grove Cemetery. His legacy as an athlete, coach, teacher, and mentor remains a lasting inspiration in Port Townsend and beyond. |