Steel Town Spotlights - Abdul Ford-Bey

‘Ab’ as he was known by many in the community, was a local Phoenixville legend. Following his Army service in the Vietnam War, Abdul involved himself in many of Phoenixville’s sports as a coach, referee, scorekeeper, and various other roles. He was endlessly active in PMYC’s football, field hockey, and basketball programs. On any given night you could hear Abdul’s distinct voice calling out ‘1st and 8 from the Vikings 20. Sports anchor Kevin Negandhi fondly remembers him “whistling a foul with his finger pointing, ‘No, Right there!’” Abdul also volunteered his time at Phoenixville Babe Ruth League baseball. He played a large role in the growth of thousands of Phoenixville athletes, including Hall of Fame catcher Mike Piazza, who credited Abdul with teaching him discipline, dedication, and teamwork. For his lifelong dedication to Phoenixville’s youth sports, the girls’ softball field at Marosek Park was named after him in 2012, and he was inducted into the Phoenixville Area School District Hall of Fame in 2014.