John DEWITT

While at Princeton, John DeWitt played on the football team for three years (1901-03) and was captain in his last year. In 1902 and 1903 he was named to Walter Camp’s All-American team as a guard. He was described by experts as one of the most versatile football players of his time – he played the line, kicked, and occasionally filled a backfield spot. As a hammer thrower, DeWitt won the IC4A for four successive years (1901-04), setting a meet record of 164-10 (50.24) in 1902 which remained unsurpassed until 1915. Later in the season he had the best throw of his career and the best mark in the world in 1902 when he threw 168-7 (51.38) at Celtic Park to beat the great John Flanagan by almost six feet. In 1903, DeWitt again topped the world ranking lists.

Personal Bests: DT – 115-10 (35.30) (1901); HT – 168-7 (51.38) (1902).