Dick Kazmaier

Dick Kazmaier 1951

Dick Kazmaier

Richard William Kazmaier Jr. (November 23, 1930 – August 1, 2013) was an American football player and businessman. He is best known for winning the Heisman Trophy in 1951 while playing as a halfback for the Princeton Tigers football team. Kazmaier's performance in college football earned him a place among the sport's legends.

Early Life[edit | edit source]

Kazmaier was born in Maumee, Ohio. He attended Maumee High School, where he excelled in multiple sports, including football, basketball, and track. His athletic prowess earned him a scholarship to Princeton University.

College Career[edit | edit source]

At Princeton, Kazmaier played under head coach Charlie Caldwell. He led the Tigers to an undefeated season in 1950 and a 9-0 record in 1951. In his senior year, Kazmaier was awarded the Heisman Trophy, becoming the first Princeton player to receive the honor. He also won the Maxwell Award and was named the Associated Press Athlete of the Year.

Professional Career[edit | edit source]

Despite his collegiate success, Kazmaier chose not to pursue a career in professional football. He was selected by the Chicago Bears in the 1952 NFL Draft, but he opted to attend Harvard Business School instead. After completing his MBA, Kazmaier founded a successful sports marketing firm.

Later Life and Legacy[edit | edit source]

Kazmaier remained active in the sports community throughout his life. He served on the President's Council on Physical Fitness and Sports and was a trustee of the Heisman Trophy Trust. In 1966, he was inducted into the College Football Hall of Fame.

Kazmaier passed away on August 1, 2013, in Boston, Massachusetts.