Ike Owens (American football) facts for kids
| Illinois Fighting Illini | |
|---|---|
| Position | End, defensive end |
| Personal information | |
| Born: | January 8, 1920 Columbus, Georgia |
| Died: | June 14, 1980 (aged 60) Gary, Indiana |
| Height | 6 ft 1 in (1.85 m) |
| Weight | 190 lb (86 kg) |
| Career history | |
| College |
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| High school | Theodore Roosevelt (Gary, Indiana) |
| Career highlights and awards | |
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Isiah Hudson Owens, often called Ike, was an amazing American football player. He was born on January 8, 1920, and passed away on June 14, 1980. Ike was known for his skills as an "end" player, which is like a wide receiver or defensive end today.
Contents
Ike's Early Life and College
Ike Owens was born in Columbus, Georgia, in 1920. As a boy, he moved to Gary, Indiana. There, he went to Theodore Roosevelt High School.
In 1940, Ike started college at the University of Illinois. His studies and football career were put on hold. He served for four years in the Air Corps during World War II.
Football Star at Illinois
After the war, Ike returned to the University of Illinois. He became one of the first African-American football stars at the school. He played for the Illinois Fighting Illini football team in 1941, 1946, and 1947.
His coach, Ray Eliot, thought very highly of him. Coach Eliot said Ike was one of "the greatest ends in Illinois football history." Ike earned many awards and honors during his time playing for Illinois.
Top Honors and Awards
- In 1946, the United Press (UP) chose him. He was a first-team player on the 1946 All-Big Nine Conference football team. This means he was one of the best players in his conference.
- His teammates picked him as the most valuable player. This was for the 1947 Illinois Fighting Illini football team.
- In 1947, he was again a first-team end. This time, the Associated Press (AP), UP, and International News Service (INS) selected him.
- Ike also received second-team honors. This was from the AP, INS, and Newspaper Enterprise Association. These honors were for the 1947 College Football All-America Team. This means he was recognized as one of the best players in the entire country.
Ike graduated from Illinois in June 1948. He was an honor student. He earned a degree in art and design.
Professional Football Career
In June 1948, Ike Owens signed to play professional football. He joined the Chicago Rockets team. This team was part of the All-America Football Conference.
Ike played in eight games for the Rockets in 1948. He played as a defensive end. He was released from the team in late October 1948.
Later Life
Ike Owens passed away in June 1980. He was 60 years old.
