Football History

Wear Schoonover, born March 18, 1910, in Pocahontas, Arkansas, established himself as a dominant two-way end at the University of Arkansas, becoming a true pioneer for Southwest Conference football.

Schoonover was the first Arkansas athlete elected to the National Football Foundation's Hall of Fame in 1967

-College Career:

Schoonover's career with the Arkansas Razorbacks was nothing short of spectacular. As a two-way end, he excelled on both offense and defense, showcasing exceptional athleticism and versatility. In 1929, a season that cemented his legendary status, Schoonover remarkably did not miss a single second of play across a nine-game schedule. His impact was undeniable, hauling in seven touchdown passes and scoring a total of 42 points, contributing significantly to the Razorbacks' impressive 7-2 record. He was a game-changer, evidenced by his pivotal performance against Texas A&M, where his receptions set up two Arkansas touchdowns, and he then blocked the game-winning extra point in a thrilling 14-13 victory. Later that same year, against Centenary, Schoonover showcased his defensive prowess by intercepting an incredible five passes, returning one for a sensational 92-yard touchdown. His outstanding performance throughout the 1929 season earned him the distinction of being the first official All-America football player in the Southwest Conference.

-Road to the Pro Game:

Wear Schoonover's collegiate career concluded before the professional game had fully taken its modern form. While the NFL existed in its early stages, opportunities and the structure of professional football were significantly different than today. There is no readily available information indicating that Schoonover pursued a professional football career after his time at Arkansas. His lasting impact would be made through his collegiate achievements.

-Football Legacy:

Schoonover's football legacy is firmly rooted in his remarkable achievements at the University of Arkansas. He stands as a foundational figure in the history of Razorbacks football and the Southwest Conference. His status as the first official All-American from the conference underscores his groundbreaking talent and the recognition he brought to the region's football program. His two-way excellence, his clutch plays in crucial games, and his record-setting performance against Centenary have become legendary within Arkansas football lore. Being the first Arkansas athlete elected to the National Football Foundation's Hall of Fame in 1967 further solidifies his enduring impact and his place as a true icon of the sport in the state.

-Accolades, Awards and Career Stats:

-First Official All-America Selection in the Southwest Conference (1929).

-Seven Touchdown Receptions in 1929.

-42 Points Scored in 1929.

-Five Interceptions in a Single Game vs. Centenary (1929), including a 92-yard touchdown return.

-Blocked Game-Winning Extra Point vs. Texas A&M (1929).

-Inducted into the College Football Hall of Fame (1967).

Wear Schoonover's exceptional talent and groundbreaking achievements have cemented his place as a legendary figure in the history of Arkansas Razorbacks football and the Southwest Conference.

Born April 2, 1917, in Detroit, Michigan, Hugh "Duke" Gallarneau forged a notable football legacy that spanned college dominance and a professional career, interrupted by distinguished military service.

This fantastic player played in an NFL Championship game all five seasons he played in the NFL.

Despite being a well-rounded athlete, Gallarneau did not play organized football until he enrolled at Stanford University (1938-1940). His initial seasons with the Cardinal coincided with challenging times for the program. However, the arrival of head coach Clark Shaughnessy in 1940 marked a turning point. Shaughnessy introduced the potent T-formation offense, which ideally suited Gallarneau's talents. As co-captain, Gallarneau spearheaded Stanford's remarkable undefeated 10-0 season in 1940. His exceptional play as a halfback earned him All-American honors. It culminated in a decisive Rose Bowl victory over Nebraska, where he scored two touchdowns, showcasing his versatility with both a rushing and a receiving score.  

Gallarneau's stellar collegiate performance naturally led him to the professional ranks. He joined the legendary Chicago Bears in 1941, contributing to their success in the early 1940s. However, his burgeoning pro career was put on hold by the outbreak of World War II. Demonstrating his commitment and leadership, Gallarneau enlisted in the United States Marine Corps. His bravery and dedication saw him rise to the rank of major and participate in an astounding seven island invasions in the Pacific theater. Following the war, Gallarneau returned to the Chicago Bears, playing from 1945 to 1947, further solidifying his reputation as a talented and resilient player.  

Hugh Gallarneau's football legacy is defined by his pivotal role in Stanford's transformative 1940 season and his successful professional career with the Bears, bookending his courageous service in World War II. His versatility as a halfback, capable of running and receiving effectively, made him a key offensive weapon. While detailed career statistics from his era are less comprehensive, his All-American selection in 1940 stands as a significant accolade, recognizing him as one of the nation's top collegiate players. His contributions to Stanford's Rose Bowl victory further underscore his impact. The National Football Foundation fittingly honored Hugh Gallarneau with induction into the College Football Hall of Fame in 1982, recognizing his exceptional collegiate career and enduring impact on the sport. His story is a testament to athletic excellence, leadership, and unwavering dedication to his sport and country.