Legacy of Leonard “Moose” Hardman Lives On
ZANESVILLE, OH – A beloved sports icon, Leonard “Moose” Rolland Hardman, recently passed away at the age of 94. Hardman earned his nickname, “Moose” during his powerful presence as a member of the 1946-1947 Central Ohio League Football Championship Squads at Zanesville. He also took the mound as a pitcher on a men’s fastpitch softball team.
More than just a player, Hardman dedicated over three decades to coaching. In a unique tribute to Hardman’s legacy, his family requested basketball donations instead of traditional floral arrangements with the hope to spark a love for sports in the younger generation. Two hundred basketballs were collected by the family, and they are still coming.
The family says the response has been overwhelming.
“I didn’t know what to expect. I thought maybe 100. But to get over 200, as well as some donations that we haven’t put to use yet, that is pretty overwhelming,” Abby Fitz, Hardman’s Grandchild said.
On January 30th, some of these basketballs found a new home in every classroom of Bishop Fenwick, but that’s just the beginning. The remaining basketballs will be donated to other schools in the region. This act serves as a fitting tribute to Hardman’s lifelong love for sports and as an inspiration for the next generation of athletes.
“He was a big membership to basketball since he was a little kid,” Liam Mitchell, Hardman’s Great Grandchild said.
“I just want to say thank you from the bottom of my heart. It’s a wonderful tribute and we’re going to put these to good use and let our kids have some fun with them,” Kelly Sagan, Zanesville Catholic Schools Executive Director said.
As these basketballs roll into classrooms, they carry with them the spirit and enthusiasm of Hardman, and his legacy will continue to bounce through the halls inspiring young athletes for years to come.
