VIDEO: MARY FRANCES HEISHMAN HALL OF FAME INDUCTION CEREMONY
Dr. Mary Frances Heishman played three sports – basketball, field hockey and tennis – during her time as a student at Bridgewater College. It was during her years as a coach at her alma mater where she made a lasting impression as one of the most successful coaches in the College’s history.
Heishman coached lacrosse at Bridgewater from 1971-87, finishing with a 119-113-5 record. She was named ODAC Coach of the Year in 1987.
It was on the volleyball court where Heishman became one of the most successful coaches in the nation. She established the volleyball program in 1975 and coached until 2008, compiling a record of 653 wins and 268 losses. The 653 wins ranks eighth all-time in Division III.
Her teams had 27 winning seasons, captured five ODAC titles and made three trips to NCAA tournament play. Coach Heishman was named ODAC Coach of the Year seven times and South Region Coach of the Year in 1988 when the Eagles finished with a 33-2 record. She coached seven ODAC Players of the Year and 37 first-team All-ODAC players.
Following graduation from BC, Heishman received a master’s in health and physical education from James Madison University. She earned a doctorate in motor learning with specialties in sports psychology and health from the University of Virginia.
Heishman also serves as a professor in the College’s Department of Health and Exercise Science. In 2010 she was awarded the Martha B. Thornton Faculty Recognition Award.
Heishman is very active in her church and community. She is an active member of the Montezuma Church of the Brethren where she has served on numerous committees and boards. Her community activities include involvement in clinics for Challenger Little League, the Special Olympics swimming program and the Southern Region Wheelchair Games.
In recognition of her exceptional career as both a teacher and coach and her leadership within the church and community, Mary Frances Heishman is an excellent choice for induction into the Bridgewater College Athletic Hall of Fame.
