CLARKSON
ATHLETICS HALL of FAME

WALLY EASTON '31
Class of 1995 Inductee

Clarkson hockey boasts a long and proud tradition of success, dating back to the early years of the twentieth century. Much of the Golden Knights' prosperity can be linked with the many excellent goaltenders who have starred between the pipes for the Green and Gold. Setting the lofty standard for Clarkson's fortunes in goal was an all-star net-minder from Rnefrew, Ontario.

Wally Easton became Clarkson's first All-American goaltender and the Green and Gold's earliest two-time winner of the prestigious award. He was a four-year starter for Clarkson from 1927-31 and compiled a .898 save percentage en route to a 39-5 career record.

During his junior and senior years (1929-31) when he was selected an all-star, Clarkson posted a 19-3 overall record for new head coach Jack Roos's squads as Easton posted a 1.50 goals against average. Easton who played a large role in helping to lay the foundation of excellence for Clarkson hockey, still holds the Knights' records for the most career shutouts with 16, and best goals against average for a season (1.33) and career (1.59).

He was honored as an All-America after his junior and senior seasons by College Humor Magazine, the recognized authority of selecting hockey and basketball teams. Easton was cited for this honor as a player who "Fought and played hard, kept up his team's morale, and lasted out the savage attacks of opponents' offenses." Easton's collegiate career came to a fitting conclusion during his senior year as the Tech men, with their All-American between the pipes, shutout the Syracuse All-Stars 13-0 before a winter crowd of 2500 fans at Syracuse Coliseum to conclude an 11-1 season.

Coach Roos gave much of the praise for Clarkson's successful season to Easton, calling him the "most valuable goalie in the East." Described as a nimble and shifty man whose goal keeping played a great part in holding Tech's opponents to low scores, Easton made numerous saves, and the manner and ease with which he kept the puck from behind the goal was a source of constant thrill to the spectators.

The Clarkson University Athletic Hall of Fame was founded in 1992 to honor and perpetuate the memory of those individuals who, either through participation, support or interest has made outstanding contributions to Clarkson athletics. And who have helped to bring recognition, honor and distinction to the University. It is with great pride that Clarkson inducts Wally Easton into the Athletic Hall of Fame.

 

William O' Flaherty
___________________
Hall of Fame Chairman
November 18, 1995