Augustana College Athletics

Jack Whan, a native Rock Islander, arrived at Augustana highly touted as an athlete. He more than justified his coaches’ expectations by the time he graduated in June of 1955. A track sprinter and an end in football, Jack will be best remembered as a sticky fingered receiver who caught the impossible, usually with one hand. The sports media in the area described him as “spectacular”, “glue-fingered”, “sure-handed” and “game-breaker”.

In his first year his teammates named him as the team’s “Most Outstanding Freshman” and conference coaches voted him honorable mention all-conference in the CCI by virtue of the fact that he was the league’s leading receiver. As a sophomore Jack set a conference record for receptions and was named second team all-CCI.

Jack’s junior year was perhaps his best. He was a unanimous first team all-conference selection at end. In his final season his teammates recognizing his contribution and importance to the team, honored him with the distinction of “Most Valuable Senior”. During that senior year he again led the CCI in receptions, tying his 1952 record and once again was an all-conference selection.

Following his graduation he entered the Rock Island school system and served as teach and coach for many years. He ended his career with a distinguished term as the director of athletics.