Hall of Fame
Regarded as one of school's finest guards during 25-year coaching tenure of HOFer George "Chick" Evans. Compared to College Football Hall of Fame tackle Tony Blazine (Illinois Wesleyan in 1931-34) who played for NFL Chicago Cardinals and New York Giants. Became second oldest player named on NIU All-Century Team (1999). Followed program's first NFL player (HB Reino Nori in 1935) as NIU's second of nine all-time Little 19 / IIAC Player of Year award recipients (1922-25, 1928-65). Earned three "NI" letters in football (1936-38). Served as team captain and MVP from 201 Club on 6-1-1 Little 19 Conference champions as senior. Selected Little 19 Player of Year (1938) and made First-Team All-Little 19 twice (1936, 1938). Narrowly missed spot in Chicago Tribune College All-Star Game against NFL New York Giants at Soldier Field (1939). Started on same O-line with long-time friend and future HOF NIU head coach Howard Fletcher (1938). Made tackle in end zone for safety in 2-0 title-clinching triumph vs. Illinois State (11-12-38). Spent 39 years in teaching, plus coached football and golf at Arlington High (1946-75). Led AHS to IHSA state title in boys golf (1956). Helped recruit Arlington star QB and future HOFer George Bork during Fletcher era (1960). Served with U. S. Army during World War II in European Theatre, played football at Fort Knox (and vs. Camp Grant's Nori), and once rousted Gen. George S. Patton out of his staff car to identify himself. Born and raised in DeKalb. Played football at DeKalb High (Deceased).
