Hall of Fame
Recognized nationally as pioneer, distinguished educator, and "gentleman of highest caliber." Enshrined into five halls of fame. Inducted into Citizens Savings Helms Foundation Gymnastics Hall of Fame (1973), U. S. A. Gymnastics Hall of Fame (1996), NIU Athletics Hall of Fame (1997), state of Washington Gymnastics Hall of Fame (2004), and Washington State Athletics Hall of Fame (2006). Recipient of highest accolade from National Association of Collegiate Gymnastics Coaches the "Honor Coach" (1981), plus "Outstanding Service Award" (1968 & 1981). Served as NACGC president (1967-68). Produced 132-69-4 won-lost-tied dual record in 24 seasons as head coach. Built foundation of respected Northern Illinois program with seven winning seasons and 62-49-1 mark in ten years (1962-72). Produced three Interstate Intercollegiate Athletic Conference individual champs and nine loop runners-up (1963-66). Tutored school's first IIAC champ (Tom Hussein on still rings in 1964), posted NIU's first dual triumph vs. Big Ten (153.55-to-140.15 vs. Ohio State in 1965-66), and recruited program's first All-America (Pete Botthof). Introduced sport to Pacific Northwest at prep and college levels. Established men's varsity program at Washington State (1947). Went 70-20-3 in duals, won three Pacific Northwest team crowns, three regional AAU titles, and 48 individual champs in 14 years at WSU (1947-55, 1956-62). Voted West Region "Coach of Year" (1961-62). Captain and All-Arounder at Southern Illinois (1939-43). Pinckneyville High grad.
