Chester Kuschmider’s passing in Frederick, Maryland, has left a deep silence across the Maryland School for the Deaf. He was more than a coach. He was a steady presence for students who often needed one most.
For years, he worked closely with young athletes at MSD. He showed up early, stayed late, and treated every practice like it mattered. Students say he never rushed anyone and always made time to explain things clearly and calmly.
At the Maryland School for the Deaf, he became a central figure in sports. Baseball, football, softball, and other school activities all carried his influence. As head coach of the MSD Orioles baseball team, he helped shape competitive squads that earned respect in deaf athletics.
What stood out most was how he built confidence in students. Former players often said he taught them discipline without pressure and teamwork without fear. He pushed them to improve, but never made them feel small when they failed.
In 2016, his work went beyond sports when he and coach Jenna Hubble helped guide students from Rockville High School to a national academic victory at Gallaudet University’s competition. It showed another side of him, focused on learning and academic growth.
Outside the field and classroom support, he was also known for creativity. He contributed artwork and murals around campus, leaving behind visual pieces that still reflect his connection to the school community.
Now, students, staff, parents, and alumni are sharing memories of him. Many describe him as patient, kind, and consistent. The kind of person who made school feel safer just by being there.
His absence is heavy, but his influence remains in the routines, habits, and confidence of the students he trained. At MSD, his legacy is not spoken as a memory alone. It is still visible in how people carry themselves.
