Rex Capro, Class of 1973
It’s no surprise that Rex was an outstanding swimmer. Bob Ballou, the marvelous coach who laid the groundwork for Peddie’s nationally-heralded swimming program of today, introduced him to Peddie. Under Coach Ballou’s tutelage, Rex developed into a not a one, two or three, but a four-time All-American breaststroker!
Fortunately for Peddie athletics, Rex didn’t spend all his time in the pool. He culminated three years of varsity football as a first-team All-State prep school fullback. With numerous 100+-yard games to his credit, he also excelled as a linebacker, routinely playing both offense and defense for the entire game.
Rex began his lacrosse career as a sophomore. Most first-year players – especially when playing in the days of wooden sticks – spend that year learning the nuances of stick handling. Rex, instead, used his to become a recognition, going on to make first-team All State in his senior year. With classmate co-captain David Bair and Jeff Mohr ’74, Rex formed Peddie’s formidable defense for three years. In ’73, they became the only entire All-State Peddie close defense. Rex then went on to captain Rutgers’ lacrosse team in 1977.
Surely Rex’s exceptional ability came from God. But it was Rex, himself, who added indomitable enthusiasm, uncompromising commitment and outstanding sportsmanship to become the consummate contributor to Peddie football, swimming and lacrosse – all three, Throwback indeed!