Phil Frerk, Former St. Louis Park High School Girls Basketball Coach, Passes Away at 83

January 17, 2022

Phil Frerk, a beloved figure in the St. Louis Park community and former coach of the St. Louis Park High School girls basketball team, has passed away at the age of 83. Frerk, who lived in New Hope, leaves behind a legacy of success and dedication to the sport.

During his 6½ seasons as the coach of the Orioles, Frerk led the team to two state titles and five state tournament appearances. His coaching tenure may have been brief, but his impact on the program and the players he mentored will be remembered for years to come.

Frerk, a respected teacher in the St. Louis Park system for 30 years, took on the role of head coach in 1984 after serving as an assistant for nine seasons. In his first year as head coach, he led the Orioles to the state tournament, setting the stage for the success that would follow.

In 1985, the Orioles won the Class 2A consolation title, and the following year, they emerged victorious in the Class 2A championship game against St. Paul Highland Park. Frerk’s coaching prowess continued to shine as the Orioles secured a third-place finish in the 1987 state tournament.

The Orioles faced a tough loss in the semifinals in 1989, but bounced back to claim third place by defeating International Falls. Frerk’s crowning achievement came in 1990 when the Orioles clinched the Class 2A championship with a win over Elk River.

In the middle of the 1990-91 season, Frerk made the decision to step down as head coach, passing the torch to assistant coach Bruce McLean. Despite the transition, the Orioles continued their strong performance, making their sixth state tournament appearance in seven seasons.

Reflecting on his decision, Frerk shared, “My coaching time clock said it was time for somebody else to take over. It was my decision, and there was nothing dramatic about it.” His humble approach to coaching showcased his commitment to the growth and development of his players.

Under Frerk’s guidance, the Orioles achieved an impressive 152-21 record. They consistently found themselves in the section championship game throughout his tenure, with the exception of 1988 when they fell short against Edina in the Class 2A, Section 6 championship.

Frerk’s dedication to the sport and his impact on the St. Louis Park community did not go unnoticed. He was honored with induction into the St. Louis Park High School Athletic Hall of Fame and the Minnesota Basketball Coaches Hall of Fame in 1997.

Born and raised in Slayton, Minnesota, Frerk’s contributions extended beyond coaching. He was recognized with the Classic Lake Conference Distinguished Service Award, a testament to his commitment to the success and well-being of student-athletes.

Notes

• In other basketball news, Hawley senior guard Brevin Stoa had a remarkable performance, scoring 61 points in Hawley’s 107-99 overtime loss to Central Cass (N.D.) in the Red River Roundup at Moorhead. Stoa’s total is the highest for a boys player in the state this season.
• Duluth Marshall’s girls basketball team made a mark in state history by sinking 20 three-point field goals in their 87-40 victory over Mounds Park Academy. This achievement ties for the third-highest number of three-pointers made in a game in the state’s history.
• Blake senior Grayson Okoronkwo is closing in on the school record for career points. With over 2,000 points in his career, he is near the record of 2,040 set by Carolyn Moos, a former Blake student who played at Stanford University.