Spring 1982 - Athletic Training History

JOSEPH N. ABRAHAMMay 4, 1919 - December 26, 1981Joseph N. Abraham, 62, Head Trainer and retired Athletic Director of Hobart College,died in Geneva General Hospital on December 26.A member of the Hobart faculty since 1945 when he became an instructor in physicaleducation, he became chairman of the department in 1955, full professor in 1968,and, from 1979 to 1981, served as athletic director.Born in Wilkes-Barre, Pennsylvania, and graduated from Geneva High School, he receiveda bachelor of science and masters degree from Ithaca College. He began his career asa physical instructor at Windham Central School and later served in the Army Air Corpsduring World War II.One of the founding fathers of the Eastern Athletic Trainers Association, he served assecretary-treasurer for the past 17 years. In 1970, he was named to the Helms Hall ofFame, and in 1976, received the Thomas Sheehan Award for his contributions to athletictraining in New York State.Honors included selection as a trainer for the U.S. Olympic team to the 1968 and 1972summer games and to the 1980 Lake Placid winter games. He was chosen five times as atrainer for the annual North-South All-Star Lacrosse game.In November, Abraham was honored with a testimonial dinner by Hobart College andAthletic Association, at which time he received an award "for support and outstandingleadership." On December 24, Joseph Abraham was presented the honorary degree ofDoctor of Humane Letters.Surviving are his wife, Mary; one son, Dr. William Abraham; one daughter, Mrs. JoanneDwyer; two grandsons; and three brothers, Anthony, Daniel, and Floyd.A recent note in the Eastern Athletic Trainers Association newsletter regarding Joebears repeating:"We may never fully realize all that he has done for us over the years,and surely there was no fanfare surrounding the effort. Others preceded,there will be others still to follow, however none can duplicate hispresence. We are deeply indebted to him for his time, patience, and sacrifice."52 Athletic Training • Spring 1982