Gridiron Greats
Bruce Smith
Bruce P. Smith, nicknamed “Boo,” won the 1941 Heisman Trophy for the University of Minnesota. With the Gophers, Smith was a two-way starter on undefeated National Championship teams in 1940 and 1941. He even starred in a movie version of his life, Smith of Minnesota. During World War II, Smith was a fighter pilot for the U.S. Navy and briefly played in the NFL. Smith was diagnosed with terminal cancer at age 47 and spent time visiting children with the disease, which earned him a nomination for sainthood by a local priest.
March 10, 1983
Dear Jack,
Thank you for your nice letter. I shall try to answer all the questions you asked me.
First I want to say that you are right about Sinkwich and Hillenbrand – they are both very nice boys and very good football players. I saw Sinkwich in Washington a week ago, and he was still limping from his sprained ankle.
I do not know where Tom Harmon is stationed right now, but if I find out I
I shall let you know.
Yes, I did win the Heisman trophy last year, but I still think I didn’t deserve it.
I played left halfback at Minnesota and Great Lakes, but I do not know how many yards I gained.
You were wrong about our quarterback. His name is Johnny Popov, but he is a right halfback not a quarterback. You were right when you said he is good.
The Iowa Pre Flight School is in Iowa City, Iowa. Yes, Bernie Bierman is still there.
Jack, when I was your age, I was the same as you – writing to football players. It was my ambition to play in high school and then in college. I want to wish you lots of luck in football.
Your pal,
Bruce Smith
