William Carey University

A graduate of Valley High School in Lucasville, Ohio, Carl Merritt played at Carey for Hall of Famer John Stephenson from 1975-1978. Carl, along with fellow inductee Dave Bush, helped anchor a Crusader pitching staff that led to 168 wins over four seasons and a school record 53 wins in 1978. The legendary 1978 team won 28 straight games, captured the Southern States Athletic Conference Championship, and advanced to the NAIA World Series. Carl, along with his brothers Harold and Mark, wife and former Miss WCU Beverly, and son Ryan all graduated from WCU. After spending 21 years in coaching, Carl moved into administration, rose through the ranks, and is now superintendent of the Poplarville School District.