As a member of the second graduating class from Philip Barbour High School in 1965, R. Scott Criss was noted for his strong academic achievements and exceptional attendance record. He was active in high school organizations such as Club 90, while also serving for a year as his class president and being elected to the offices of treasurer and president as a member of the PB Key Club. A multi-talented athlete, he also lettered in five sports during his four years of high school eligibility.
It was on the gridiron perhaps that Scott created his most memorable moments. In fact, he holds the distinction of scoring the first touchdown on the new “Colt Stadium” turf during the football program’s inaugural campaign in the fall of 1963. The following season, Scott helped lead Philip Barbour to its best regular season record of 8-2, a high water mark that stood for more than half a century until tied by the 2017 squad. The 1964 team, under Coach George Byrer, also posted a record five shutouts during that banner season.
Following his career at PBHS, Scott Criss enrolled at West Virginia University in 1965 and earned a spot on the Mountaineer football roster as a walk-on. His gritty play, skill and determination led to his receiving a grant-in-aid football scholarship from 1966 to 1968. Known for his ability to be the first downfield on kickoffs, he was honored as a team captain during his senior season.
Mr. Criss also excelled in his studies throughout college as part of the challenging WVU School of Pharmacy. He became the first Mountaineer football player ever to graduate from the pharmacy program. Scott then used his training to launch a career as a respected local pharmacist for more than 43 years until his retirement a few years ago.
It was on the gridiron perhaps that Scott created his most memorable moments. In fact, he holds the distinction of scoring the first touchdown on the new “Colt Stadium” turf during the football program’s inaugural campaign in the fall of 1963. The following season, Scott helped lead Philip Barbour to its best regular season record of 8-2, a high water mark that stood for more than half a century until tied by the 2017 squad. The 1964 team, under Coach George Byrer, also posted a record five shutouts during that banner season.
Following his career at PBHS, Scott Criss enrolled at West Virginia University in 1965 and earned a spot on the Mountaineer football roster as a walk-on. His gritty play, skill and determination led to his receiving a grant-in-aid football scholarship from 1966 to 1968. Known for his ability to be the first downfield on kickoffs, he was honored as a team captain during his senior season.
Mr. Criss also excelled in his studies throughout college as part of the challenging WVU School of Pharmacy. He became the first Mountaineer football player ever to graduate from the pharmacy program. Scott then used his training to launch a career as a respected local pharmacist for more than 43 years until his retirement a few years ago.