Dr. Charles “Doc” Wagner
Team Physician
Charles W. Wagner, M.D., a Delaware native, volunteered as William Penn High School’s team physician for 40 years.
Born in Wilmington, DE, Dr. Wagner graduated from Wilmington High School and the University of Delaware.He served as a First Lieutenant in the Infantry during World War II.After the war, Dr. Wagner continued his education at the University of Virginia School of Medicine.
Following graduation, Dr. Wagner returned to Delaware and opened his family practice in New Castle. Beginning in 1952, at the request of Coach Bill Cole and Coach Otis Chapman, Doc established a comprehensive medical screening program for the student athletes at William Penn High School (WPHS).Over the next 40 years, hundreds of student athletes passed through the screening program at WPHS.Additionally, Dr. Wagner voluntarily attended every WPHS home football game.Doc was a fixture on the sidelines ringing his silver cowbell whenever the Colonials scored.During his many years of service, Dr. Wagner watched the WPHS football team capture multiple district and state championships.
Dr. Wagner was also a 53-year member of the Wilmington Manor Lions Club, and a charter member of the Asbury United Methodist Church.He was also a member of the Academy of General Practitioners and the Medical Society of Delaware.“Doc” Wagner passed away in 2007 at the age of 90.