Terry Dillon facts for kids
| Date of birth: | August 18, 1941 |
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| Place of birth: | Waukesha, Wisconsin, U.S. |
| Date of death: | May 28, 1964 (aged 22) |
| Place of death: | Missoula, Montana, U.S. |
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Career information
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| Position(s): | Defensive back |
| College: | Montana |
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Organizations
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Career stats
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| Playing stats at NFL.com | |
Terrance Gilbert Dillon (born August 18, 1941 – died May 28, 1964) was an American football player. He played as a defensive back in the National Football League (NFL). Terry, as he was known, played for the Minnesota Vikings in the 1963 season. He was also chosen by the Oakland Raiders in the 1963 American Football League Draft.
Who Was Terry Dillon?
Terry Dillon was born in Waukesha, Wisconsin. He was a talented athlete from a young age. He went to the University of Montana for college. There, he played football for the Montana Grizzlies.
His Football Career
After college, Terry Dillon joined the professional football world. He was drafted by two different leagues. The Minnesota Vikings picked him for the NFL. The Oakland Raiders also drafted him for the American Football League.
Terry played as a defensive back. This position is important in football. Defensive backs try to stop the opposing team from scoring. They defend against passes and help tackle players. Terry played for the Minnesota Vikings during the 1963 NFL season.
A Tragic Accident
On May 28, 1964, Terry Dillon was working on a bridge. The bridge was being built near Missoula, Montana. Part of the temporary platform broke. Terry fell about 50 feet into the Clark Fork River.
Witnesses said Terry was a strong swimmer. He tried to swim to the riverbank. He fought against the strong current. However, he disappeared after swimming about 200 yards. His body was found later on July 17. A fisherman found him about 17 miles downstream.
Remembering Terry Dillon
Terry Dillon was a respected teammate. His dedication and spirit were remembered. In 1965, the Minnesota Vikings created an award in his honor. It was called the "Terry Dillon" award.
Minnesota Vikings linebacker Rip Hawkins was the first person to receive this award. The award is given to a player who shows dedication, self-sacrifice, and great ability. It helps keep Terry Dillon's memory alive.
