Hall of Fame
A beloved figure in the Columbia Athletics program for over 40 years, Ken Torrey’s influence on the department can be still be felt in many ways. From his main duties as the liaison with physical education and athletics to his role in the creation of the Lions’ squash program, few have made the impact as Torrey.
Torrey came to Columbia in 1973 as director of intramural and club sports, quickly rose the administrative ranks and was appointed Chairperson of the Department of Physical Education in 1996, a post he held for the remainder of his career until he retired in 2016.
While fulfilling his duties, Torrey also began the Columbia club squash team. His success during his 14-year run as head coach and continued support of the club beyond, was instrumental in the formation of the varsity program, which was established in 2011.
Upon creation, an endowment was formed in his name and the official title of the head coaching position is the Kenneth W. Torrey Head Coach of Squash.
Torrey was an All-American centerfielder at SUNY Cortland and set the Red Dragons’ single-season record with 10 triples in 1970, a record that still stands today. In 2017, he was inducted into the inaugural SUNY Cortland Baseball Legends Club.
