Tribute to Elroy "Crazylegs" Hirsch
TRIBUTE TO ELROY "CRAZYLEGS" HIRSCH -- (Extensions of Remarks - February 10, 2004)
SPEECH OF
HON. TAMMY BALDWIN
OF WISCONSIN
IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES
TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 10, 2004
Ms. BALDWIN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to the great life of Elroy "Crazylegs" Hirsch. On January 28, 2004, Wisconsin lost a true state icon, but Crazylegs leaves his rich legacy in the hearts of all Wisconsinites.
Elroy Hirsch was born in Wausau, WI and grew into an incredible high school athlete while playing football and basketball at Wausau High School. He was such an accomplished high school player that in 1998 he was inducted into the National High School Hall of Fame.
After high school, he became a standout halfback for the University of Wisconsin Badgers during the 1942 season. The Badgers finished the 1942 season 8-1-1 and were ranked third nationally by the AP. Hirsch was key to the 1942 victory over top-ranked Ohio State by throwing one touchdown pass and recording more than 200 total offensive yards. It was during this season that he earned the name "Crazylegs" after a reporter wrote that "his crazy legs were gyrating in six different directions all at the same time."
Due to his assignment with the United States Marine Corps, Hirsch continued his collegiate athletic career with the University of Michigan, and went on to play professionally for the Chicago Rockets from 1946-1948 and then with the Los Angeles Rams from 1949-1957. After a record setting career with the NFL, he was named to the NFL's All-Time All-Star team.
Following his time as General Manger with the Los Angeles Rams, Hirsch returned to Wisconsin and the university where he started his collegiate athletic career. When he arrived as Athletic Director, the Badgers' athletic program was struggling. He was committed and successful in turning around the athletic program in his 18-year role at the University of Wisconsin. During the years following his retirement, Hirsch was the Wisconsin Badgers biggest fan.
Despite living in various communities across the United States during his accomplished career, it was evident that his home was truly with the people of Wisconsin and Wisconsin athletics, as with every autograph he signed "always a Badger."