Mark Roy Manges was born on January 10, 1956. He took an interest in football from a young age, laying the foundation for what would be an impactful career in the sport. His journey in football began at Fort Hill High School, where he played as a young quarterback and showcased his burgeoning talent.
College Career
Early Years and Rise to Fame
After a successful stint in high school football, Manges was recruited to play for the Maryland Terrapins, the college football team representing the University of Maryland. His tenure with the Terrapins spanned from 1974 to 1977, during which he became a key player for the team. His skills on the field did not go unnoticed. In October 1976, he appeared on the cover of Sports Illustrated, marking a significant milestone in his burgeoning career.
Accolades and Injuries
Manges received several honors during his time with the Terrapins. He was named to the All-ACC first-team, an acknowledgment of his high-level play within the Atlantic Coast Conference. At the beginning of his senior year in 1977, he was even considered a contender for the prestigious Heisman Trophy. However, his path to football stardom hit a roadblock when he broke his hand in the third game of the season. The injury sidelined him for the rest of the year, impacting his chances for the Heisman Trophy and potentially affecting his future in professional football.
Professional Career
Entry into the NFL
Mark Roy Manges was selected in the fourth round of the 1978 NFL Draft by the Los Angeles Rams with the 105th overall pick. This was a significant moment, marking his transition from college football to the professional level. However, his stint in the National Football League (NFL) was short-lived. Manges played in only one game in the NFL, and that was with the St. Louis Cardinals.
Transition to the CFL
After his brief NFL experience, Manges moved on to the Canadian Football League (CFL). In 1979, he played one game for the Hamilton Tiger-Cats, the professional Canadian football team based in Hamilton, Ontario. His career in the CFL was as short as his time in the NFL, but it added another chapter to his life in professional football.
Personal Life and Death
Later Years and Community Involvement
After retiring from professional football, Manges remained active in his community. He served as a member of the Fort Hill High School Scholarship Fund Board of Directors. Manges also became a color commentator for Fort Hill Sentinel football games, broadcasting for WTBO in Cumberland, MD.
Passing
Mark Roy Manges died at his home on September 22, 2023, at the age of 67. His passing marked the end of a life deeply connected to football, from his early days at Fort Hill High School to his stints in the NFL and CFL.
Mark Roy Manges was more than just a football player. He was a figure who, despite facing setbacks like injuries, managed to make an impact both on and off the field. Whether as a promising quarterback for the Maryland Terrapins or as a community leader in his later years, he left an indelible mark. His life story serves as an inspiration for aspiring athletes and community members alike.
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