This is a special weekend. One of our own, Jerry Kramer ’58, is being inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in Canton, Ohio. Jerry becomes the first University of Idaho graduate to earn this incredible honor. It’s an exciting moment for all of us to see a member of our Tribe from the North finally get to wear the exclusive gold jacket that comes with Hall of Fame membership. The pride of Sandpoint High, Jerry joined the Vandals in 1954. He played offense and defense on his way to All-America status and a Senior Bowl selection. A member of Sigma Nu fraternity, he even found time to set a school record in the shot put. Jerry’s No. 64 is retired at U of I, and he’s a charter member of our own hall of fame. Drafted by the Green Bay Packers in 1958, Jerry earned five All-Pro selections while winning five NFL championships and two Super Bowl titles in the 1960s. He was a part of a legendary Packers team under coach Vince Lombardi and threw a block that cinched the 1967 NFL Championship for his team. He describes this season in detail in his acclaimed book, “Instant Replay,” which thrilled me as a Packers fan growing up in the Midwest, and that holds up as worthy reading for sports fans everywhere. We’re going to come together to support Jerry’s induction this Saturday with watch parties in Moscow, Spokane, Coeur d'Alene, Nampa, Meridian and Colorado. He will also be the guest of honor at the annual Inland Empire Vandal Celebration on Thursday, Aug. 23. We’re also hoping to host Jerry at a fall football game and are finalizing those plans. Throughout his college and pro career, and following his playing days, Jerry has exemplified sportsmanship, hard work and humility. His accomplishments set a standard of excellence for Vandals everywhere, and we are proud to see his excellence enshrined for all time on Saturday. Congratulations, Jerry, and …. | |