Memorial Scholarships


Each year, Cleveland Touchdown Club Charities grants four scholarships to Northeast Ohio high school seniors with a love and passion for the great game of football. In addition, the applicant must have participated in his or her high school athletic team programs in a non-athletic manner (i.e. team manager, statistician, cheerleader, sports writer, team booster, etc.).

These scholarships are given in honor of four gentlemen who have a rich history in Northeast Ohio football: Morrie Kono, John Peyton, Billy Reynolds and Dick Zunt. In 2023, we added a fifth, one-time scholarship honoring Gene Hickerson.

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Scholarship Application Process

Morrie Kono

Morrie Kono

Morrie Kono started with the Cleveland Browns in 1946; he was the team’s equipment manager from 1948 to 1974, before moving into the role of a consultant until 1979. Known for his stories and ability to keep the locker room loose, he was an integral part of the day to day operations of the team for over 30 years.

 

John Peyton

John Peyton

In high school, John Peyton did not play any team sports; however, he demonstrated his spirit and desire to help by acting as the manager of many of his high school’s teams. Peyton was a two-time past President of CTCC and passed away in 2000.

 

 

Billy Reynolds

Billy Reynolds

Billy Reynolds was a former President of CTCC, who made the club an active civic sports organization in the Greater Cleveland area and who dedicated his life to youth and athletics. A halfback for the Cleveland Browns from 1953 – 1957, he made Cleveland his home after retirement until his passing in 2002.

 

 

Dick Zunt

Dick Zunt

Dick Zunt was actively involved with CTCC. He was a long-time reporter for the Plain Dealer for over 43 years covering the local high school sports community. Zunt passed away in 2010.

 

 

Gene Hickerson - Special Scholarship for 2023

Gene Hickerson played for the Cleveland Browns from 1958-1973 as an offensive guard. He was known as the “messenger” guard and established himself as the lead blocker for three future Hall of Fame running backs, Jim Brown, Leroy Kelly and Bobby Mitchell.  He passed away in 2008.