The First Wave All-American

Born on May 27, 1904, in New Orleans, Louisiana, Lester Lautenschlaeger became a foundational figure in Tulane University's football history. A standout quarterback for the Green Wave from 1922 through the 1925 season, Lautenschlaeger's aggressive and playmaking style captivated fans and earned him national recognition.

**College Career

Lautenschlaeger was a four-year starter for Tulane, culminating in a remarkable 1925 season. As captain, he led the team to a 9-0-1 record, with the sole blemish a 6-6 tie against Mississippi. The season was highlighted by a dominant 77-0 victory over Louisiana College in the opener, where Lautenschlaeger himself scored four touchdowns. His exceptional performance throughout the year earned him the distinction of being Tulane's first-ever All-American, selected as a third-team All-American by Grantland Rice for Collier's Weekly. In his final two seasons, Tulane boasted an impressive 17-1-1 record against all opponents except Mississippi State, showcasing Lautenschlaeger's pivotal role in the team's success. He was also a captain of the Tulane baseball team, demonstrating his all-around athletic prowess.

**Football Legacy

Lautenschlaeger's impact extended beyond his playing days at Tulane. Following graduation and earning his law degree, he returned to his alma mater to serve as an assistant football coach for ten seasons (1929-1935). He even co-coached Tulane's first Sugar Bowl team in 1935. His contributions to Tulane athletics are forever enshrined with his induction into the Tulane Athletics Hall of Fame in 1977. Furthermore, his significant achievements in the sport led to his election into the College Football Hall of Fame in 1975 and the Louisiana Sports Hall of Fame in 1983. Lautenschlaeger's legacy as a trailblazing athlete and influential coach cemented his place as a Tulane icon. He further served his community as a Louisiana State Representative (1928-1932) and the Director of the New Orleans Department of Recreation for 23 years.

**Accolades, Awards, and Career Stats:

✦ College Football Hall of Fame Inductee (1975)

✦ Third-team All-American (1925)

✦ Tulane Athletics Hall of Fame Inductee (1977)

✦ Louisiana Sports Hall of Fame Inductee (1983)

✦ Captain of the 1925 Tulane Green Wave football team

✦ Led Tulane to a 9-0-1 record in 1925

✦ Scored four touchdowns in a single game against Louisiana College (1925)

✦ Assistant Football Coach at Tulane University (1929-1935)

✦ Louisiana State Representative (1928-1932)

✦ Director of the New Orleans Department of Recreation (1947-1970)