Yakima Valley College Athletics

In 1966, Dave led Yakima Valley College to the Washington State Junior College Championship.  Playing for Ellwood Crosier, Dave was named Most Valuable Player of the tournament, scoring 94 total points in the tourney, including 17 in the championship game and 26 in the semifinal.  An all-around player, Dave was credited with "numerous assists and countless steals" by the Seattle Post-Intelligencer for his tournament efforts.

Dave struck fear into the hearts of opponents.  Wenatchee Valley coach Frank Mataya said, "Our biggest problem is to stop Dave Benedict.  He really scares me.  We don't have one man who can take him on and bother him.  There's no limit to his jumping ability."

Nicknamed "The Coyote," Dave set team records in rebounding, free throws made, and free throws attempted.  He still holds the school record for rebounds in a season with 405.

Dave went on to star at Central Washington University where he was named an NAIA All-American, playing for legendary coach Dean Nicholson.  He was inducted into the NWAC Hall of Fame in 1997.