Hall of Fame Inductee - 1944-45 Boys Basketball Team

The Blue Devil team made the war years something special. Under the direction of Hall of Famer, Derrick "Boots" Bush, the Devils compiled a record of 28-5 and went on to claim third place in the state of Illinois. Quincy captured the Liberty regional title, coasting to a 50-29 win over cross town rival, Quincy Notre Dame. From there the Devils defeated Dallas City for the sectional title by a final of 42-37. They beat Springfield in the first round of the state tournament and ran by Peoria Central in the quarterfinals. Champaign ended Quincy's state title hopes by beating the Devils 50-32 in the semi-finals. Quincy came back in the consolation game to defeat Moline 49-47, which was good for third place. This senior laden team (six in all) was led in scoring by Don Bickhaus, Dick Heitholt and Auris McGee. Twins El and Mel Tappe combined to score over 250 points, while Harold Gibson, Don Stroot, Bob Tostberg and Art Wilson saw significant time. This season was unique that it was the only year that Bush would serve as head basketball coach at Quincy High.

Team Members

El Tappe
Mel Tappe
Dick Heitholt
Auris McGee
Don Bickhaus
Harold Gibson
Don Stroot
Bob Tostberg
Art Wilson
Tom Lymenstull
Keith Straley

Coaches

Derrick "Boots" Bush - Head Coach
Don Sloan - Assistant
Rex Griep - Assistant

Managers

Jim Adams
Richard Donald