George Fach, Barry Condran, and Dave Rhen
There are three of them: George, Barry and Dave. From Middletown grads to #1 fans. They have claimed their seats on the front row of the bleachers and even have their own designated cafeteria table at halftime.
George Fach (’65), Barry Condran (’64), and Dave Rhen (’65) attended Middletown schools their entire way through graduation with the exception of the year Barry attended 2nd grade in a one-room school on the hill behind Doc’s Rolling Rink. Five years ago, Barry and George noticed they were both attending sporting events regularly and decided to strike up a deal. George became the driver and Barry took on the role as navigator. Later when they started running into Dave at basketball games it officially became a trio.
Thanks to their Gold Card Senior Passes, their social calendars are exceedingly full with the exception of the summer months. Between the three of them, one or more of the faithful fans can be found on the front row at almost every athletic event in the sports of football, basketball, softball, volleyball, baseball, track and field, and tennis. You’ll find them at MAMS at every Junior High girls’ and boys’ event, and at MAHS for every JV and Varsity girls’ and boys’ game. “If there’s a game scheduled, we’re there,” said Barry. Barry and George even travel to away games. And if that isn’t enough, “When it doesn’t interfere with a game here,” Barry stated, “George and I go see Katie Fitzpatrick (Class of ‘20) play at Lebanon Valley College. We’ve been to five of her games this year.”
Their perfect attendance does not go unnoticed. The athletes know the faithful trio well and have come to respect their presence on the front row. Prior to a game you’ll see players greeting them with hugs and high-fives. During games you’ll see smiles on players’ faces when they hear a coaching tip or a shout of encouragement coming from their senior fans. The support even spilled out beyond the walls of the gymnasium when Barry and George treated the varsity girls’ basketball team to pizza after one of their practices.
If you need help spotting them at a game, simply look for the colorful Converse sneakers. Barry owns 27 pairs of Converse kicks in a variety of colors. Sometimes you’ll spot him in a mismatched pair of blue and gold and he’ll tell you, “I have a matching pair at home.”
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