Historic Dave Klicker Track Dedication

Hundreds flocked to Walla Walla High School Saturday, April 22 for the Dave Klicker Track Dedication. Dave's wife Ardell and children Mike and Kriss were in attendance to celebrate this special event.

Walla Walla Public Schools is proud to call Dave Klicker one of its own. The legacy of Mr. Klicker spans multiple generations as an athlete, teacher, coach and mentor. He was born in Walla Walla in 1935, and his spirit and desire for competition surfaced at a young age. As a boy, he developed a deep love for academics and athletics.

He played football, basketball and baseball as a student at Walla Walla High School. He made a switch to track and field for his spring sport during his sophomore year. This turned out to be a wise choice as his accomplishments are largely unmatched. He won a state title in the 100-yard high hurdles and helped lead the school to its only state title in Track and Field in 1953.

He went on to Whitman College where he continued to dominate the competition. He won an NAIA national title in the 400-meter hurdles at the end of his junior season. He was national runner-up in the same event in 1958. He also starred in the 220-yard dash, 120-yard high hurdles, 220-yard low hurdles, long jump, high jump and was anchor on Whitman’s victorious mile relay team.

After Whitman, Mr. Klicker continued to train for the 1960 Olympics, but lost his spot at the U.S. Olympic Trials due to changes in qualifying procedures. He later ran in the Pan- American Games. Mr. Klicker also served his country as a member of the United States Navy.

After Dave’s illustrious athletic career came to an end, he began his 28 year teaching tenure in Walla Walla Public Schools. During his time in education, Dave coached the Pioneer Junior High School Track and Field team to 11 district titles. He also coached football, basketball and wrestling at Pioneer. He continued as an assistant coach for Walla Walla High School and Whitman College after his retirement. Mr. Klicker is a member of the Walla Walla High School and Whitman College Athletic Hall of Fame. He passed away in 2006 after 43 years of service to the Walla Walla Valley. He will always be remembered for a lifetime of athletic and educational excellence in support of Walla Walla students and athletes.