Douglas F. Melville, Sr., Class of 1950

Doug’s outstanding contribution to Peddie athletics is summarized by his earning eight varsity letters in his sophomore, junior and senior years- an uncommon feat in and of itself. But this, indeed, only begins to tell his story!

In the fall of his sophomore year, the only season in which he did not win a varsity letter, he captained the JV football team. Then young Melville went onto become a varsity starter in both basketball and baseball. A sophomore starter in not just one but two sports? Yes, indeed!

To prove that his starting roles as a 10th grader were no fluke, he again started for the basketball and baseball teams his junior year. But this was only after he had also earned a starting position on the varsity football team.

However, two years as a standout underclassman athlete merely set the stage for a banner senior year. It began with his not only starting on the football team but also receiving New Jersey All-Prep honors for his play. Then came basketball where his contributions as a three-year starter earned him the Sports’ Award as his team’s most valuable player award. For most athletes, that would have been hard to top, but not for Doug.

In the spring of his senior year, he captained the baseball team. On March 27, 1950, he had what still stands as one of the most formidable displays of individual offensive power in Peddie baseball annals. Against the Big Red of Lawrenceville no less, Doug hit a single, a triple and two home runs. To top the day off, he then stole home. Peddie’s 6-4 win was largely a result of his explosive play. It is no surprise that Doug received the baseball award following the basketball award, his second such recognition in two consecutive seasons.