Clarion Athletics

Robert “Bob” Leonard, better known as “Doc” by Clarion University athletes, coaches and friends, was Clarion’s Head Athletic Trainer from the 1970-71 season through the 1989-90 campaign, or for twenty years. During that time he was the only trainer for all Clarion’s sports teams, a daunting task. But Bob always put in whatever time necessary to take care of the university’s teams and athletes. He was of course responsible for preparing all athletes for practices and games, as well as diagnosis and rehabilitation of all injuries, referrals, etc. And certainly Leonard’s work made a strong contribution to Clarion’s rich athletic traditions of the 1970's and 80's. “There just aren’t enough good things to say about Bob’s loyalty, dedication and service,” said former Clarion A.D. Frank Lignelli. “He gave unlimited time and energy as a trainer and teacher and was highly respected nationally in his profession,” said former wrestling coach Bob Bubb. An Assistant Professor in Health and Physical Education from 1970-96, he retired from teaching in 1996 and resides in Shippenville with his wife Ruth. They have a son Michael and a daughter Kathleen. A Cincinnati, Ohio native, he is a graduate of Purcell High. Bob earned his B.P.E. degree at Purdue in 1957 and Masters in 1958, then moved on to Iowa and earned his Physical Therapy Certification in 1960. He was the head trainer at Union College (Schenectady, N.Y.) for 10 years (60-70) before coming to Clarion.