ALBEMARLE HIGH SCHOOL ALUMNI ASSOCIATION

HALL OF FAME 

Harry Edward Null

Harry Edward “Ed” Null was the first Athletic Director for Albemarle High School, a position he held from the opening of the school in 1953 until his retirement.  In the early years of Albemarle, he was also the Varsity Football Coach, Head Varsity Boys Basketball Coach, Track Coach and taught Health and Physical Education classes.  He led the 1957 football team to an undefeated season and the first championship in any sport.  He mentored many successful young coaches including Bobby Johnson, Joe Downing, Julian King, Willie Raines and Tony Laquintano. From Staunton, Virginia, Mr. Null graduated from Hampden-Sydney College, where he played football.

Mr. Null was everyone’s friend and he was a friend to everyone.  He always made time for a kind word to all students and was a father figure for many Albemarle High School boys.  Mr. Null always coached with calmness and patience.  His players and coaches loved and respected him.  This writer enjoyed his days at AHS being coached by Mr. Null in football, basketball as a team manager and track.  As one Albemarle faculty member and parent wrote, “My oldest son and his teammates loved Coach Ed Null, and were saddened, as were all of us, by his early death.   I valued the decency and strength of character he exhibited to the young men lucky enough to have him as coach, friend and mentor.”

Ed Null’s coaching ability was tops.  His 1953 team was the first opportunity for many of his players to participate in organized football. Many did not know how to put on pads much less know the fundamentals of the game. With this beginning he led the team to, an undefeated championship team in five years. Mr. Null passed away in 1981.

Ed Null
Hampden-Sydney College - 1940