Richard Shore Smith (1998) - Hall of Fame - University of Oregon Athletics

Richard Shore Smith

Induction:
1998

Dick was a pioneer football star for Oregon, lettering four times for the Lemon-Yellows from 1896 to 1899. He was team captain his last three years. Eligibility rules were relaxed in those days, so he continued playing college football at Columbia University, where he attended law school. Smith enjoyed such success playing for the Lions, he became the first Westerner ever named to an All-America squad, earning that status all three of his law school years.

Although he was beginning his legal practice, he coached the Oregon varsity gridders in the 1904 season to five wins, including victories over OAC and the Sun Dodgers of Washington. When a coaching vacancy arose before the 1925 season, he stepped in for the year. Smith worked through mid-afternoon practicing law, then laced on his cleats and practiced football players. Today, an endowed Richard Shore Smith scholarship goes to a varsity athlete each season.