In memory: Paul Schechter (1943-2019)

2017 Tribute Video
2017 Tribute Video - Extended Cut

FRESNO, Calif. – Fresno State Hall of Fame trainer Paul Schechter has passed away at the age of 75. It was announced by family and friends on Friday.

Schechter served as the head athletics trainer for 27 years at Fresno State (1974-2001), which included overseeing the football team in both the Jim Sweeney and Pat Hill eras.

"He was a good man," said Hill. "He was a really good trainer but very demanding. He made sure the student-athletes got the best care and got them back on the field quickly because of his hard work and dedication."

Schechter's impact was made on hundreds of Bulldogs, including current head coach Jeff Tedford who was a player and coach during his time on staff.

"Paul left an indelible mark on a lot of people's lives in this community and beyond," said Tedford. "He was a huge part of what set the foundation for Bulldog football. He genuinely cared about all the people around him and cared deeply about this program. I love Paul, he will be missed."

His impact on Fresno State Athletics did not stop in the training room. Schechter's contributions also included educating students and spearheading fundraising efforts for new facilities for the betterment of the department as a whole.

"Paul is who really helped develop Fresno State football and Fresno State Athletics for many years, even before me," said Hill. "There were a lot of men and women who were fortunate to be mentored by Paul. His legacy at Fresno State is huge. I know we need new facilities on the west side of Cedar and I believe this community will provide those for our student-athletes, however, if it wasn't for the hard work and dedication of Paul Schechter, the facilities built and finalized would of never come to fruition without him. He did so many things for the University."

The New York City native contributed in many ways to the Bulldogs' success and to the worldwide practice of sports medicine. During his career, he was also the head athletic trainer at three Olympic Trials (1964, '68 and '72) and was the athletics trainer for the United States track and field team at the Military World Games in 1968, 1971 and 1973.

Upon his retirement, he was selected to the National Athletics Training Association District 8 Hall of Fame in 2001 and was elected to the Far West Athletic Trainers Association Hall of Fame in 2002. The FWATA also honored him with its Special Service (1998) and Distinguished Service awards (1992).

In 2016, Schechter was enshrined at the 58th Annual Fresno Athletic Hall of Fame Awards Dinner, alongside Fresno State counterparts Ron Adams, Yvette Roberts and Billy Volek.

A staple presence at Fresno State's annual Night of Champions Gala held in May each year, Schechter was in attendance last month to present to the 2018-19 co-winners Kyle Riddering and Ronnie Rivers the Paul Schechter Courage Award. An award given each year to a student-athlete who shows courage in overcoming great obstacles whether physical or otherwise sponsored by Sierra Pacific Orthopedic Center.

After high school on the East Coast, Schechter moved west to attend Cal Poly San Luis Obispo, and it was there that he made the switch from athlete to trainer. Schechter earned a master's degree in education administration and put that toward great service to Fresno State and the community.

"Fresno State Athletics: The Pride of the Valley" – The Bulldog Foundation creates championship experiences for Fresno State student-athletes as they strive for excellence in the classroom, in competition, and in life. To become a BDF member, please call 559-278-7160.

Fresno State Athletics

In memory: Paul Schechter (1943-2019)

Players Mentioned

Kyle Riddering

Ronnie Rivers

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