Harold ‘Hal’ Frey passed away on Monday, Oct. 20, 2014, at the age of 90. Frey was a pioneer in USA Gymnastics history. His impressive reputation and rapport with those involved in U.S. gymnastics helped him convince the gymnastics community to embrace the switch from Amateur Athletic Union to the United States Gymnastics Federation (later USA Gymnastics) as the governing body for gymnastics in the United States.
Frey competed at Pennsylvania State University and served as team captain for three seasons, leading the team to two National Amateur Athletic Union championships. As an individual, Frey won an AAU floor exercise title and earned medals on vault three times during his time at Penn State. He finished fourth in the all-around twice in the AAU.
Frey coached at the University of Illinois-Chicago for 10 years, collecting three Midwest Open Championships and four undefeated seasons. Frey then went on to coach at the University of California-Berkeley, where he posted an astonishing 13 undefeated seasons, including winning streaks of 89 and 56. At Berkeley, Frey coached two national champions and one world champion. Frey judged for 58 years, scoring meets from NCAA Championships to the Olympic Games.
Frey is survived by his wife and their children.
Service: A celebration of life service will be held at a later date. Per Hal’s wishes, cremation has taken place. Contributions in his name may be made to the following fund that is already established at the University of California – Berkeley: The Dr. Harold Frey Scholarship for Men’s Gymnastics, Cal Athletics Department – Attn: Kevin McCormick, 195 Haas Pavilion, Berkeley, Calif. 94720-4422. Please be sure to send a note directing your donation to the Dr. Harold Frey Scholarship for Men’s Gymnastics fund. The family would like to extend a special and heartfelt thank you to everyone who has been a part of Hal’s wonderful life. Deep in our hearts, Hal will always stay, loved and remembered every day.