Kent State Unveils Statue of Thurman Munson

Munson, who died Aug. 2, 1979, at age 32, remains one of the university's most celebrated athletic alumni. The Canton native was named an All-American catcher in 1968 when he hit .413 and still holds the Kent State career batting average record of .390, achieved during the 1967 and 1968 seasons. He played alongside future MLB pitcher and broadcaster Steve Stone before being selected fourth overall by the New York Yankees in the 1968 draft.

During his 11-year MLB career, all with the Yankees, Munson compiled a .292 batting average with 113 home runs and 701 RBIs. The seven-time All-Star won American League Rookie of the Year honors in 1970 and AL MVP in 1976 — making him the only player in Yankees history to win both rookie and most valuable player honors. He also captured three consecutive Gold Glove Awards from 1973-75.

Named Yankees captain in 1976 — the first since Lou Gehrig — Munson helped lead the team to three consecutive World Series appearances from 1976-78, winning championships in 1977 and 1978.

"There are no words to adequately express my family's sincere gratitude to the special people who've made this project a reality", said Diana Munson, Thurman Munson's widow.

The statue was created by acclaimed sculptor David Deming, whose sports-themed works include statues of Jim Thome, Jim Brown, Larry Doby, Frank Robinson and Superman. Deming attended Saturday's ceremony along with members of Munson's family, donors, baseball alumni and Kent State community members.

"David Deming gave us Superman in Cleveland, but he gave me my Superman at Kent State", said Munson.

Munson died in a plane crash while practicing landings at Akron-Canton Airport as the Yankees were seeking a third straight championship. The Yankees immediately retired his No. 15 jersey and dedicated a plaque to him in Monument Park at Yankee Stadium. He was inducted into Kent State's Varsity "K" Hall of Fame in 1980.