Robert "Bob" Wampler

Robert “Bob” Wampler came to Charlottesville High School for the 1962-1963 school year. He would remain at Eastern Hancock as a Spanish and English teacher and coach until his retirement in 1991. 

Bob was a graduate of Bloomington High School and Indiana University. Bob served our country in the United States Army as an officer during the Korean War, where he was awarded the Purple Heart.

Bob began his career in education at Spencer High School, where he coached basketball from 1956-1958. Bob then taught and coached basketball and baseball at L&M High School in Greene County from 1958-1961.

Bob became head track coach at Eastern Hancock in 1969. He was the head coach for the next 16 seasons. Bob coached the Hancock County championship team in 1969. He coached 3 consecutive Big Blue River Conference championship teams from 1977 to 1979. Bob coached the two individuals that are Eastern Hancock’s only two state track meet qualifiers to date. Bob coached 22 individuals that won 26 conference championships in his 16 seasons. 5 school records set by athletes under Bob’s tenure still stand over 35 years after his retirement as coach. 

Bob was head cross country coach for 6 seasons, from 1971 to 1976. He coached the current record holder for individual wins in school history. He coached many of the most successful cross country runners in school history, with several all-conference runners and a regional qualifier. 

Bob lost a leg while serving our country during the Korean conflict. Despite this loss of a leg, Bob displayed a grit and determination in coaching that did not let this get in the way of successfully demonstrating techniques and coaching our athletes in a manner that allowed them to get the most out of their ability. 

Bob and his wife, Marjorie, had seven children, and have 5 great grandchildren that attend Eastern Hancock at this time. Bob continued to live in Greenfield after his retirement until he passed away 2003. 

On hand to receive Bob’s plaque and recognition tonight are 3 sons and 3 daughters, along with many other family members that are with us in the crowd this evening.