CLARKSON
ATHLETICS HALL of FAME

JACK PHILLIPS '43
Inaugural Class of 1992 Inductee

Jack Phillips, perhaps more than anyone else, sums up the essence of athletic tradition at Clarkson. Since 1939, when he first starred in baseball and basketball, Phillips' connection with Clarkson has spanned more than half a century, culminating with the award of professor emeritus status in 1988. In between he established himself as a legitimate major leaguer during nine years with the New York Yankees, Pittsburgh Pirates, and Detroit Tigers, including his appearance in the 1947 World Series with the winning Yankees.

Most important for Clarkson was Phillips' role as a coach for 24 years. To literally hundreds of players he was a wise and inspirational mentor, a canny strategist in a thinking man's game, a winner who put sportsmanship and fair play ahead of scores. From the autumn of 1965, when he took over for his old coach, the legendary Hank Hodge, until his retirement at the conclusion of the 1988 spring campaign, Phillips instilled in the Knights a love of the game and a deep loyalty to Clarkson, while fans in the Clarkson community enjoyed a memorable and colorful era on Snell Field.

A native of Marilla, New York, Phillips majored in business administration and became one of Clarkson's finest student athletes. In baseball, he was both a pitcher and a first baseman on the great 1943 team that went 19-1. In basketball, he was the starting center and leading scorer for the 1942-43 team that was 14-1 (losing only the national powerhouse St. John's).

During his coaching career at Clarkson. Phillips guided the Golden Knights to 170 victories. Since retiring as baseball coach, he has continued to serve part time as a golf coach. At Clarkson, he has embodied the qualities and values that link athletic and education. After a 7-5 loss in 1986, Dick Rockwell, head coach of national powerhouse LeMoyne College, offered the following tribute: "Jack knows as much about the game as anyone in college coaching. He hasn't always had the best players to work with, but he does a super job with them. If I have to lose, I'd rather lose to him. A kid who plays for Jack is a better person for it."

The Clarkson University Athletic Hall of Fame was founded to honor and perpetuate the memory of those individuals who, either through participation, support or interest have 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 Jack Phillips into the Athletic Hall of Fame.

 

William O' Flaherty
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Hall of Fame Chairman
October 31, 1992