Larry Eckenrode Memorial Scholarship

LARRY ECKENRODE MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP

Larry Eckenrode graduated from high school in Los Angeles and played eight years of professional baseball, mostly in the Los Angeles Dodgers organization. In 1965, Eckenrode married Peggy McCain, whom he had met while playing minor league ball in Pocatello. After completing his final year in pro ball, he returned to Pocatello and attended ISU in the late 60’s and early 70’s. Three daughters were born to the Eckenrodes: Brooke in 1970, Brynn in 1974 and Liesl in 1977.

For a majority of the years 1972-1978, Eckenrode was the voice of Bengal sports and broadcast ISU football and basketball games. An employee of KSEI, he was a long-time supporter of Bengal athletics and it is his strong association with ISU sports which people remember. His honors include being selected as the State Sportscaster of the Year in 1976 and 1977, and being chosen as the 1976 Pocatello Jaycees Young Man of the Year. He was also named to receive the Idaho State Broadcasters Association Best Sportscaster in 1976, 1981-82 best sports segment featuring the ISU Bengals, and the 1982 best feature news story. Additionally, Eckenrode coached American Legion baseball in 1981 and 1982.

General Manager of KSEI at the time of his death, Eckenrode died of a heart attack on August 15, 1982 at the age of 37. A memorial scholarship was established by family and friends to recognize Eckenrode and his contributions to the ISU athletic program.