Phil Walden
Post-High School Career
PIL Hall of Fame Merit Award Recipient, 2006
Phil Walden was an influential educator and coach in his hometown of Portland, and he served his community in a manner that went above and beyond the call of duty. His long teaching career included stops at several Portland schools including James John, Holliday, Woodlawn, Marysville and Sunnyside.
Phil founded Albina Sports Basketball and the Albina Roadrunners track club, which he funded himself on many occasions. His exemplary service was recognized with many awards and accolades including the Portland World Arts Foundation MLK Jr. Award, State Farm Insurance Neighborhood Award, Bethel AME Church Award, Kaiser Hospital Master Athlete Award, USA (Portland) National Physique and Fitness Award and the first Self Enhancement Incorporated Black History Maker Award.
Phil was also honored with awards from The Bridge Builder Youth Program, Portland Trailblazers, Jefferson High School, Model Cities Program, Albina Ministerial Alliance and the Black Employment Division of the Portland Federal Executive Board.
Phil was best known to many as the founder and coach of the Albina Roadrunners which has served young people in the Portland area for half a century. He became a father figure to Oregon athletes, black and white alike, when times were tough, paying entry fees, buying equipment, transporting and counseling athletes who needed help. He was the mentor of many current Oregon coaches.
The city of Portland twice named days in honor of Phil Walden for his service to the youth of Portland.
Commentary
The Portland Interscholastic League Hall of Merit Award, was officially renamed the Roy Love PIL Hall of Fame Distinguished Service Award in 2017. The award honors the profound legacy of Roy Love, an outstanding Cleveland High School and Portland State University pitcher who later served as the head baseball coach and athletic director for the Vikings. He dedicated his life to Portland athletics, was instrumental in establishing the PIL Hall of Fame and served as its president.
This prestigious award celebrates individuals who have demonstrated extraordinary commitment and made lasting contributions to the PIL community. By bearing Roy Love's name, it serves as a perpetual reminder of the integrity, vision and selflessness required to champion and preserve the rich history of student-athletics in Portland.
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