Danny Rumph Tribute
Daniel "Danny" Rumph, the starting point guard for Western Kentucky and a former star at Parkway High and Maine Central Institute, passed May 8, 2005, after playing in a pickup game at his second home, Mallery RC.
An only child, he is survived by his parents, Daniel and Viola "Candy", along with other family members and loving friends.
Danny had one year remaining at Western Kentucky, where twice he was named the team's most improved player.
Rumph appeared in 92 contests in his career on the Hill, starting 33, posting 468 points, 203 assists and 196 rebounds. Last season he averaged a career-best 9.1 points, 3.3 rebounds and three assists per game while starting 29 of his 31 appearances.
A native of Philadelphia, Rumph was home visiting family after final exams when he collapsed following a pickup basketball game. An autopsy later revealed that cardiomyopathy was the cause of death.
WKU announced the establishment of the Danny Rumph Memorial Scholarship Fund in his honor.
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Remembrances
Kieran Leary: "I've known Danny since we were in 6th grade and grew up playing ball with him. He was a great guy, never got into any trouble, can't think of anyone at Mallery that didn't like or admire him. His autographed photo from WKU is on the wall at Mallery and he was looked up to by most of the kids at the rec center."
Ed "Huck" Palmer: "I had the pleasure of covering Danny a few times while he played at Parkway. Danny was a terrific player, but it wasn't just his basketball talents that caught my attention. I was more intrigued by his demeanor on the court. He always appeared to be the consummate leader and was such a level-headed kid."
Valerie Van Eaton: "After three years of watching, I know beyond a shadow of a doubt that Danny Rumph was a fine, fine young man. He improved noticeably game upon game. He never quit trying. He was a team player who knew his role, but could come to the rescue when needed."
Jerome Burt, Parkway Class 2000: "Danny Rumph was a man's man. He was my favorite basketball player and one of the toughest teammates I ever had the pleasure of guarding. I loved Danny like a brother and I miss him like one. He'll forever be Parkway's top scorer."
Zalika Woods, Parkway c/o 2001: "Danny was loved by everyone who knew him. He was definitely our Parkway Star."