Ron McNeely
Class of 1999
Ron McNeely’s baseball journey began in Macon, Georgia, but it was in Huntsville where his athletic career truly flourished. After moving to North Alabama, McNeely attended Lee High School, where he quickly developed into one of the most accomplished baseball players in the area.
McNeely played a key role on Lee’s 1971 state championship baseball team, helping lead the Generals to one of the most memorable seasons in the program’s history. The following year his individual talents were widely recognized when he was selected to the Alabama All-State Baseball Team in 1972. His outstanding performance at the high school level earned him a baseball scholarship to Memphis State University.
At Memphis State, McNeely established himself as one of the premier hitters in college baseball. During his collegiate career he set eleven school records and earned All-American honors twice. His greatest statistical achievement came in 1976 when he led all NCAA Division I players in hitting, demonstrating exceptional consistency and skill at the plate.
After completing his collegiate career, McNeely was drafted by the Oakland Athletics organization. He played four seasons in the Athletics’ minor league system from 1976 through 1980. In his first professional season, McNeely achieved one of the most remarkable accomplishments of his career, leading all minor league hitters with a .403 batting average.
McNeely’s success at Memphis State was later recognized with his induction into the Memphis State Athletic Hall of Fame in 1992. Despite the many honors he earned throughout his career, McNeely often credited his father for helping shape his love of the game.
“My father always made time to play catch with me,” McNeely once said. “He coached me until I was fourteen but never pressured me to excel. He was simply always there to support me.”
Through dedication, family support and exceptional talent, Ron McNeely built a baseball career that remains an important part of Huntsville’s rich athletic history.
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