Hall of Fame
The Irving Berlin of college fight songs and alma maters, local author and playwright, pioneer Northern Illinois men's swimming coach, and NIU Physical Eduction faculty (1959-74). Wrote lyrics of "Huskie Fight Song" which was rated among Top 25 college fight songs in ESPN national poll (2000). Responded to appeal from The Northern Star student newspaper for a snapper version of A. Neil Annas' original NIU classic "Loyalty Song" (1961). Answered with modest rewrite of "Loyalty Song" chorus and new lyrics which were first published in The Star (November 17, 1961) and finally adopted by Student Senate (April 30, 1963). Authored fight songs at North Texas alma mater, Drake, and Wyoming, plus alma maters at Chicago, Southern Arkansas, and Wyoming. Wrote music and lyrics for UNT's "Fight, North Texas" (1939). Inducted into UNT Athletics Hall of Fame (1987). Inaugurated Huskie men's swimming program (1960-61) and won first loop title three years later. Compiled 32-32 career dual-meet record, won two Interstate Intercollegiate Athletic Conference team championships (1964-65), and qualified 13 individuals for NCAA College Division Championships in eight seasons (1960-68). Posted 7-2 dual mark, dominated IIAC meet by 31.5 points, and put four qualifiers into NCAA (1963-64). Repeated loop crown and won nine individuals NCAA berths including 400-yard freestyle relay unit that placed third in nation (1964-65). Lettered in basketball (2) at North Texas. Texas state junior division diving champ (1927). Holliday (TX) native.
