Donald L. Perry '47

Boys' Varsity

• Football
• Baseball
• Track

Donald "Rip" Perry '47, of Falmouth, MA, will forever remain a legend in the Tabor Academy athletic program. Known for his speed, leadership and unwavering drive, Rip was the type of Tabor athlete that students today still aspire to be. On the football field, Rip was an unstoppable right halfback and fearless leader, captaining the team for two years. In 1946, Rip led the football team to its first undefeated season (7-0) in school history. Rip was the standout athlete that year, helping to secure 6 victorious shut-out wins in their 7 game season. Rip and his teammates outscored the opposing schools with a lopsided total of 206-13, with Rip accounting for 88 of his team's points. His total shattered Tabor's individual season scoring record and set the record for the highest points scored by any player in the state of Massachusetts that year. At the end of his senior year football season, Rip's teammates presented him with the Donald "Rip" Perry Trophy, which was established to honor Rip and his leadership of the football team. The trophy is still awarded today to the football player who best displays the finest team spirit, sportsmanship and outstanding athletic ability. Beyond football, Rip was an outstanding athlete in baseball and track, where he captained both teams and set several school and state records.

Following Tabor, Rip signed with the Washington Redskins. Unfortunately, his career was tragically ended after an explosive boating accident in Sippican Harbor. Thankfully Rip and his crewmates survived the accident and he went on to lead a successful life. In 1948, Rip was honored for his athleticism by the Fairhaven Varsity Club. In later years, he worked as both a Major and Minor League Scout for the Kansas City Athletics. Rip was also a leader in the local community through serving on many Marion and Cape Cod community boards and clubs.