Jack Trice

(American football Player) The first African-American athlete at Iowa State College (now Iowa State University).

What is Jack Trice known for?

Jack Trice was a notable alumnus of East Technical High School in Cleveland, Ohio. Born on May 12, 1902, in Hiram, Ohio, Trice was an acclaimed American football player and the first African-American athlete at Iowa State College (now Iowa State University).

Trice's early life was marked by passion for sports, and he joined the East Technical High School in Cleveland, Ohio, where he played football. He followed in the footsteps of his high school coach and teammates, moving to Iowa State College in Ames, Iowa, in 1922. Majoring in animal husbandry, Trice aimed to utilize his knowledge to help African-American farmers after graduation.

In addition to his studies, Trice was active in college sports, playing primarily as a tackle for the Iowa State Cyclones from 1922 to 1923. During his time at the college, Trice also became a member of the Alpha Phi Alpha fraternity.

While playing for the Iowa State Cyclones, Trice tragically died as a result of injuries sustained during a game against the University of Minnesota on October 6, 1923. The circumstances surrounding his death sparked speculations and debates. To honor Trice, Iowa State dismissed all classes after 3 p.m. on October 9, 1923, the day following his death.

Trice's legacy lives on today as his name graces the Jack Trice Stadium, the football stadium of Iowa State University. In his honor, the stadium was named to remember not only his contributions to the sport but his spirit and determination as well.