Frank W. Keaney

Inducted: 1966
Born: 1886 - Died:
1967

Frank W. Keaney, 1886-1967,the legendary coach at University of Rhode Island, came to Kingston from Everett (MA) High School to coach all sports, serve as athletic director, and teach chemistry. An indefatigable promoter of the scholar-athlete, he was responsible, more than any other, for an athletic program that would bring URI a measure of national prominence. His fast-break style of basketball produced the “point-a-minute” Ram teams of the 1930s and 1940s and helped to revolutionize the game. Keaney’s 28-year reign as coach of the Rams resulted in a .764 winning percentage. The URI gymnasium, completed in 1953, was dedicated in his honor.

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