Fort Lewis College Athletics

Shortly after Fort Lewis College became an agricultural junior college, Charles William McLain pioneered the school's intercollegiate athletic program.
Mr. McLain initiated basketball, football and tumbling teams in 1929, 1931 and 1932, respectively, and would later coach baseball and track teams at the junior college.

Mr. McLain's tumblers became a favorite attraction for locals, putting on demonstrations for high school students and other groups.
As a coach for the Beavers and Aggies from 1929 through 1942, Mr. McLain stressed character, dedication, team loyalty and discipline as well as fundamentals.

After serving in the military during World War II, Mr. McLain returned to Fort Lewis College to coach the Aggie cagers in 1945-46 before retiring from coaching and serving as Vice Dean and science teacher for many years. He also served as Interim Dean in 1949 before the arrival of Dr. Charles Dale Rea.