Michigan Jewish Sports Hall of Fame

Leonard Karpeles

Born January 11, 1911 in East Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. Played semi-professional baseball at age 14. Starred in football and basketball at East High School in Youngstown, Ohio. Quarterback on University of Pittsburgh Rose Bowl team in 1931. Moved to Detroit in 1932 and began long career of excellence in various racquet sports. From 1935 through mid-1960s, won various tennis, squash, and table tennis tournaments throughout metro Detroit and Michigan. Became racquet sports teaching professional at Tam O’Shanter Country Club and Southfield Athletic Club. Coached Michael Yellen to five consecutive national racquetball championships. Inducted 1992