Bob Brownson
Bob played football, basketball, and tennis at Ashland High School, and football at Ashland College, but made his mark in coaching. While still in college he led Jeromesville to a 22-2 basketball record. Moving on to New London he compiled an undefeated football team in 1951 and was named Ohio Coach of the Year in Class A schools. He moved to Portsmouth and his 1953 undefeated team gained him Coach of the Year honors in Class AA. In 1954 Bob returned to Ashland College as football mentor, enjoyed a 7-0 season with his “Hungry Hounds” team, and was named Ohio College Coach of the Year. In four years he had completed the “grand slam” of coaching. In his four years as Ashland head coach he compiled a 21-10-1 record.
In 1959 he became Athletic Director, serving till 1971 in that capacity till teaching duties and health caused him to relinquish the post. Bob graduated from Ashland College cum laude and was the first recipient of the Dr. Jacobs award as an outstanding faculty member. He served on the Y.M.C.A. board of directors, and was a prolific after-dinner speaker with over 500 engagements. His widow, Louise, still marvels at her husband’s ability to motivate people, not only on the field but in the classroom, where students clamored to take his courses.
Brownson was an avid hunter, often taking to the field with some of his athletes. He died in 1975 at the age of 52.
Nominator: Fred Martinelli
Presenter: Ellsworth Cox
