Gary Whitlow

Garry Whitlow graduated from Taylorville High School in 1954 after completing a stellar athletic career in basketball and baseball.     A three year letter winner on the Tornadoes basketball team and starter during his senior years, Garry Whitlow was known for his dedication, leadership and athletic ability on the court. He scored a career total of 476 points (402 his senior year) and was select as Honorable Mention on the All State Basketball Team in 1954.    During baseball season, Whitlow was an outstanding second baseman and started on the 1952 State Tournament Team his sophomore year.    But it was at Beloit College the Garry Whitlow matured into a stellar guard on the Basketball team. A three year starter, he finished his career with 972 points, 408 his senior year for a 19.4 point average. Small, even in the 1950’s, Whitlow stood 5’9” and sparked the Bucs in many games with his speed, deadly accuracy and fire. Coach Bill Knapton, said of Whitlow, “Gary was a Division I player, there’s no question. He was absolutely outstanding. He was only 5’9” and quicker than a cat. He could lead and he could play.” He was considered the best guard the Knapton had coached in his 40 year career. Whitlow also played shortstop on the Buccaneers baseball team as a starter for three years.    Following his playing career, Garry Whitlow Coached Varsity Baseball and Freshman Basketball at Zion Benton High school from 1958-1961. In 1961 he coached varsity basketball and track at Stockton, Illinois. He also was an IHSA basketball referee for thirteen years for 1963 to 1976.