Joseph Meduri

Joseph Anthony Meduri graduated from Ravenna High School in 1951 after successfully participating in football, basketball and baseball. Upon graduation, Joe received a scholarship to play football at Western Reserve University. After one season Joe left college and enlisted in the U.S. Marines to do his part in the Korean conflict. While in the Marines Joe played football at the Cherry Point Training Base. It was there that he had the opportunity to play against some of the top players in the country as a running back. His superiors recognized his attitude of participation in all Marine activities and they proceeded to promote him to sergeant before sending him to Korea, where he served admirably. Upon his return from active duty from the Marines, Joe and his brother started the Meduri Brothers Produce Company that is still family run today. His unselfish dedication of his time and talent to the youth of Ravenna has been made visible through the history of PeeWee Rams football, CYO basketball and Hot Stove baseball programs. Though Mr. Meduri retired from the program in 1977, his activities formed the foundation for its continuation. He directed the booster program that provided the necessary funding and then coached for the initial seventeen years of existence. The program grew steadily and was able to maintain the initial intent of giving all boys the opportunity to participate, regardless of background, stature, athletic abilities or financial status. Many of Mr. Meduri’s football students continued to play for Ravenna High School, college and professional football teams, though this was never the driving intent of his efforts. The legend, Joe Meduri, and the intent of the program that he helped develop lives on.