The Archbishop Rummel Athletic Hall of Fame welcomed five new inductees on Thursday night, celebrating athletes and coaches who have made significant contributions across four different sports. The diverse class of 2024 highlights the school’s rich athletic history and the lasting impact these individuals have had on their respective programs. Friends, family, and alumni gathered on campus to honor the achievements of these remarkable figures.
Golfing Greatness: Timothy Byrd’s Unforgettable Swing
Timothy Byrd left an indelible mark on Rummel’s golf program.
- Record-Breaker: Led the team to its first-ever Regional Championship.
- Top Ranking: Recognized as the No. 1 junior golfer in Louisiana by USA Today’s Golfweek.
- Leadership: Served as team captain during his junior and senior years.
- Collegiate Career: Earned a golf scholarship to Louisiana Tech.
Byrd’s dedication and skill set a new standard for future golfers at Rummel.
Diamond Dominance: Martin LaRocca Shines in Baseball
LaRocca’s baseball prowess was evident from the start.
He guided the Raiders to the 1997 Class 5A state championship as a sophomore. In his junior year, he hit .391 and pitched a perfect game against Woodlawn of Baton Rouge. His senior stats were impressive: a .367 batting average, seven home runs, and 28 RBIs. On the mound, he boasted an 11-2 record with a 1.19 ERA. Drafted by the Baltimore Orioles, LaRocca chose to play college ball at Meridian Community College and later at the University of Alabama.
Bowling into History: Charles Noble’s Strikes and Spares
Not only did Noble lead Rummel to its first state bowling championship in 2012, but he also repeated the feat in 2013.
His achievements include:
- High Averages: Posted a 223 average his senior year, the highest in Louisiana.
- Undefeated Seasons: Contributed to a 32-0 record over his last two seasons.
- Scholar Athlete: Received a scholarship to bowl at Spring Hill College.
- Leadership: Four-year starter who helped the team win four consecutive Catholic League titles.
Noble’s excellence paved the way for bowling’s prominence at the school.
Remembering Derron Parquet: A Football Legacy
Parquet remains one of Rummel’s all-time leading rushers with 3,912 yards.
He started for three consecutive seasons, and his senior year was nothing short of spectacular. Rushing for 2,216 yards—the most in a single season at Rummel—and scoring 25 touchdowns, he set records that still stand today. Parquet was the first player signed by LSU’s then-new coach Nick Saban in 2000. Though he passed away in 2017, his legacy continues to inspire future athletes.
Coach George Ryan: The Strategist Behind the Success
George Ryan dedicated 23 years to coaching football at Rummel.
His tenure included:
- Serving as a top defensive assistant and later as defensive coordinator from 1971 to 1982.
- Being part of nine playoff teams and three Catholic League championship squads.
- Leading the team to a district championship in 1985 as head coach.
- Assisting in baseball and track and field coaching roles.
Ryan’s strategic mind and commitment played a crucial role in shaping Rummel’s athletic excellence.
