The Heisman Memorial Trophy is one of the most prestigious individual awards in American sports. But as the tradition surrounding the award grows each year, the story of the man it memorializes, John W. Heisman, often fades into the background. Heisman was a pivotal figure in the evolution of American football, a keen strategist, and a witness to the game’s transformation. He personally knew many of the gridiron’s greats and significantly influenced the sport’s development.
Born on October 23, 1869, in Cleveland, Ohio, John William Heisman spent his childhood in the oil fields of Titusville, Pennsylvania. His early football experiences were a mix of soccer and rugby. At 17, he attended Brown University in 1887, playing club football. In 1889, he transferred to the University of Pennsylvania to study law. Despite his stature (5’8” and 158lbs), he played varsity football for three years as a guard, center, tackle, and occasionally as an end.
Alt: A young John Heisman in his early years, showcasing his determination and passion for the sport.
The Start of a Coaching Legend
After facing a health scare where lightning nearly impaired his vision, Heisman completed his law degree in the spring of 1892. Immediately after graduation, he secured his first coaching position at Oberlin College, leading the team to an undefeated season in only the football program’s second year. This marked the beginning of Heisman’s legendary coaching career.
Heisman’s coaching journey included stints at Auburn, Clemson, the University of Pennsylvania, Washington & Jefferson, and Rice University. His most remarkable period was at Georgia Tech (1904-1919), where his Golden Tornadoes team became a scoring juggernaut, achieving an impressive 33-game winning streak. He left Georgia Tech after the 1919 season to coach at his alma mater, the University of Pennsylvania. After three years, he departed and spent a year at Washington & Jefferson before moving to Rice Institute in Texas. His coaching career spanned over three decades, concluding in 1927 at the age of 62.
Alt: John Heisman passionately coaching his team, demonstrating his strategic mind and leadership skills.
Life After Coaching
Moving to New York, Heisman dedicated more time to writing and advisory roles. He contributed articles to publications like American Liberty and Collier’s Magazine, and served as the football editor for the Sporting Goods Journal. His prolific work did not go unnoticed. On May 23, 1930, he was appointed as the first Athletic Director of the Downtown Athletic Club (DAC) of New York City. In this role, Heisman established the Touchdown Club of New York and the National Football Coaches Association.
At the urging of the DAC officers, Heisman developed the structure and voting system for recognizing the best college football player in the nation. Despite initial reservations about singling out an individual in a team sport, he eventually recognized the value of acknowledging exceptional team contributions. The first Downtown Athletic Club Award was presented in 1935 to Jay Berwanger of Chicago. Sadly, on October 3, 1936, before the second award ceremony, John W. Heisman passed away due to pneumonia. In honor of his legacy, the DAC officers unanimously renamed the award the Heisman Memorial Trophy.
Alt: The iconic Heisman Trophy, symbolizing excellence and achievement in college football.
Heisman’s Enduring Legacy
Throughout his coaching career, Heisman revolutionized the game of football. Perhaps his most significant contribution was the legalization of the forward pass in 1906, after years of advocating for the change with Walter Camp and the rules committee. Many of Heisman’s suggestions were adopted verbatim into the official rule book of the time.
John W. Heisman counted among his friends and admirers notable figures such as coaches Robert C. Zuppke of Illinois, Fielding Yost of Michigan, Amos A. Stagg of Chicago, Dr. J.W. Wilce of Ohio State University, and D.X. Bible of Texas A&M; the legendary sportswriter Grantland Rice; golf legend Robert Jones Jr.; and former teammate and Mayor of Philadelphia, Harry A. Mackey. Just as his life touched many, the spirit of his character continues to inspire excellence in those who receive the Heisman Memorial Trophy.
In conclusion, the Heisman Award is more than just an accolade; it represents the legacy of a man who significantly shaped the landscape of American football. John W. Heisman’s contributions as a coach, innovator, and advocate for the sport continue to resonate, making the Heisman Trophy a symbol of outstanding achievement and lasting impact. The award serves as a reminder of Heisman’s dedication to the game and his commitment to fostering excellence in college football.
