IN TRIBUTE TO BEN AND TIM
On January 23, 1992, Ben Yupcavage and Tim Russell, both Hershey High School athletes, were tragically killed in an automobile accident. In their memory, the Yupcavage and Russell families established the Tim Russell – Ben Yupcavage Memorial Scholarship Fund. Now in its 29th year, the event which has become known as “Ben & Tim Day”, has maintained this scholarship fund in loving memory of and as a tribute to Ben and Tim.
Tim Russell exemplified the spirit of the sport of running as a leader, an inspiration and friend. He was as gracious in winning as he was in defeat. As a person and athlete, he possessed and demonstrated qualities that set an example for others to emulate and follow.
As a freshman, Tim became a key part of and contributor to his Cross Country Team which placed as State AA Runner Up Champions in 1989. For the next two years, Tim held the distinction of being the team’s number one runner and led the team to the State Cross Country Championship Title in 1990.
Ben, known to many as “Yuppy”, was a serious student, musician and soccer player. Active on and off the soccer field, Ben was an honor roll student and member of the Student Council, the Yearbook and Production staff and HHS Brass Ensemble. His love for soccer started in the first grade and continued through to varsity soccer at Hershey High where he was a standout player fiercely proud of his team and loyal to his teammates.
Off the field, Ben could be found encouraging his brother on the JV Soccer Team, assisting his little sister’s team and coach in addition to refereeing games for younger township teams. In soccer, as well as academics, Ben set a standard and displayed a passion to be admired by all who knew him.
The Yupcavage and Russell families extend their deepest appreciation to the dedicated organizers and generous sponsors of each year’s event and to countless friends and neighbors who come each year to honor and remember Ben and Tim. It is this dedication and support that enables the scholarships given in their memory to deserving Hershey High School students.
