Hall of Fame

Induction Year: 2017

Tom Graves, Sandburg student-athlete from 1974-1978, has a list of accomplishments longer than the timeline to complete the LaGrange Road construction project. A devoted runner, Tom took the track world by storm, winning three State Championships in the 3200, one State Championship in the 1600 and two cross country State Championships. Not only did he win the most state titles in Illinois history, but also was a six-time High School All-American Athlete and the 1978 Sandburg Athlete of the Year. His fame persisted long after he graduated from Sandburg, since he held the 2 mile record from 1977 to 2001 and the cross country school record from 1976 until 2010. Even today, Sandburg runners are well-versed in Tom’s achievements.

Tom earned more state titles than conference titles, but the missing conference titles are no mistake. Being the true team player he was, Tom was known for letting the second-place runner win conference in order to share the limelight with his teammates.

It is one thing to excel in sports while in high school, but quite another to continue that level of achievement at the collegiate level. Tom attended Auburn University where he was a five time All-American in cross country and track.

The success Tom accumulated in athletics has been mirrored in his professional life. Tom received a BA in education, MS in Education, Counseling Psychology and School Administration and a Doctorate in Educational Foundations, Leadership and Technology Educational Improvement Specialist. He has dedicated his life to the high calling of teaching the next generation, and they have undeniably benefitted from a driven, hardworking leader.

Cross country at Sandburg has always been a sport for the dedicated, the hard-working, and the honorable, and Tom exemplifies each and every one of those qualities.