CHS Teacher and Coach Inducted into Hall of Fame

Named after its former Executive Director, the YMCA of Frederick County’s Alvin G. Quinn Sports Hall of Fame recognizes individuals who have made a significant impact on athletics in Frederick County.

On January 31, the YMCA inducted nine new recipients into the Sports Hall of Fame during a ceremony at New Spire Arts in Frederick. Among them was current Catoctin High School (CHS) teacher and former baseball coach Mike Franklin.

Franklin has long been known for inspiring students both on and off the field during his tenure at Catoctin. In addition to being named Teacher of the Year in 2016 and 2019, he served as Head Baseball Coach from 2000 to 2024. Under his leadership, the Cougars captured two state championships. He was also named NFHS Maryland Baseball Coach of the Year in 2021 and MSABC Coach of the Year in 2013 and 2021.

His work in the community extends far beyond the diamond. Franklin founded the Robbie Siedel III Baseball Tournament to honor his former player, who lost his life in Iraq. He has coached travel baseball and softball, and, most recently, girls flag football, and served as a mentor for the CHS Roar Club and Special Olympics events. He is also the author of the best-selling books Changing the Game: How Teachers Enthusiastically Build Powerful Student Relationships and Amazing School Culture and Teacher Fuel, which have inspired educators and coaches nationwide.

Upon learning of his induction, Franklin reflected on the honor and those who helped shape his journey.

“I’d like people to know that coaching awards are not really just for the individuals getting them,” Franklin said. “If you have a family, coaching is an ‘all-in’ affair. You are going to miss so much time with your spouse and kids, and their support and understanding are essential. So, it’s important to recognize and share the light. All praise and glory go to my Lord and Savior. God gave me the opportunity to spend my life in our community with amazing kids and amazing families. The support I’ve had at CHS is second to none. Having mentors like Doug Williams and the amazing athletic directors and administrators while I’ve been here has helped me with any success I might have had. I am so grateful for the Catoctin community. I’ve been here for 30 years—it’s the best school on earth.”

He added, “This was truly humbling and a terrific honor. I looked up to so many of the individuals in that Hall of Fame as a coach. They are the gold standard.”

Inducted along with Franklin were Lucas McCollum, Barbara Taylor, Jim Dorsch, Charles B. Davis Sr., Vikas Gowda, Wayne Main, Cheryl Linscott, Colby Johnson, and Alex Rodriguez.

For more information, visit https://frederick-hof.org.

(above) Catoctin high School Teacher and Coach, Mike Franklin (far right) was inducted into the YMCA of Frederick County’s Alvin G. Quinn Sports Hall of Fame along with nine other recipients