Lawrence Glenn Wisenbaker is a former American football player, coach, and athletic director. He played college football at the University of Oklahoma, where he was a member of the 1956 national championship team. Wisenbaker was drafted by the Chicago Bears in the 1958 NFL Draft, but he did not play in the NFL.
After his playing career, Wisenbaker became a coach. He was the head coach at Bethany Nazarene College from 1962 to 1967, and at East Central University from 1968 to 1972. Wisenbaker was also the athletic director at East Central University from 1972 to 1987.
Wisenbaker was inducted into the Oklahoma Sports Hall of Fame in 1988. He is a member of the Bethany Nazarene College Athletic Hall of Fame and the East Central University Athletic Hall of Fame.
Lawrence Glenn Wisenbaker
Lawrence Glenn Wisenbaker was an American football player, coach, and athletic director. Here are 8 key aspects of his life and career:
- Played college football at the University of Oklahoma
- Member of the 1956 national championship team
- Drafted by the Chicago Bears in the 1958 NFL Draft
- Head coach at Bethany Nazarene College from 1962 to 1967
- Head coach at East Central University from 1968 to 1972
- Athletic director at East Central University from 1972 to 1987
- Inducted into the Oklahoma Sports Hall of Fame in 1988
- Member of the Bethany Nazarene College Athletic Hall of Fame and the East Central University Athletic Hall of Fame
Wisenbaker was a successful player, coach, and athletic director. He made a significant contribution to the sport of football. He was a respected figure in the Oklahoma sports community and beyond.
1. Played college football at the University of Oklahoma
Lawrence Glenn Wisenbaker played college football at the University of Oklahoma. This was a significant period in his life and career, as it laid the foundation for his future success as a player, coach, and athletic director. At Oklahoma, Wisenbaker was a member of the 1956 national championship team. He was also a standout player on the Sooners' 1957 team, which finished the season with a 9-2 record.
- Leadership and teamwork: As a member of the Sooners' football team, Wisenbaker learned the importance of leadership and teamwork. He was a key member of the team's defense, and he helped lead the Sooners to a national championship in 1956.
- Work ethic and dedication: Wisenbaker was a hard worker and dedicated to his craft. He spent countless hours practicing and studying the game of football. His work ethic and dedication paid off, as he became one of the best players in the country.
- Competitive spirit: Wisenbaker was a fierce competitor. He always played to win, and he never gave up. His competitive spirit helped him to succeed on the field and in life.
- Preparation and execution: Wisenbaker was a master of preparation and execution. He always knew his opponent's strengths and weaknesses, and he developed a game plan to exploit those weaknesses. His preparation and execution helped him to win games and championships.
Wisenbaker's experience at the University of Oklahoma was invaluable to his development as a player, coach, and athletic director. He learned the importance of hard work, dedication, and teamwork. He also developed a competitive spirit and a strong work ethic. These qualities served him well throughout his career.
2. Member of the 1956 national championship team
Lawrence Glenn Wisenbaker was a member of the 1956 national championship team at the University of Oklahoma. This was a significant achievement, as the Sooners finished the season with a perfect 10-0 record and defeated the University of Maryland in the Sugar Bowl to claim the national title. Wisenbaker was a key member of the team's defense, and he played a major role in the Sooners' success.
Being a member of the 1956 national championship team had a profound impact on Wisenbaker's life and career. It gave him a sense of pride and accomplishment, and it helped him to develop a winning attitude. He also learned the importance of teamwork and dedication, and he developed a strong work ethic.
Wisenbaker's experience as a member of the 1956 national championship team was invaluable to his development as a player, coach, and athletic director. He learned the qualities that are necessary to be successful in life, and he developed a strong foundation for his future success.
3. Drafted by the Chicago Bears in the 1958 NFL Draft
Lawrence Glenn Wisenbaker was drafted by the Chicago Bears in the 1958 NFL Draft. This was a significant event in his life and career, as it gave him the opportunity to play professional football. However, Wisenbaker did not end up playing in the NFL. Instead, he chose to pursue a career in coaching and athletic administration.
- Unfulfilled potential: Wisenbaker was a talented football player, and many people believed that he had the potential to be a successful NFL player. However, he never got the chance to prove himself at the professional level. This is a reminder that even the most talented athletes can have their careers cut short due to injury or other circumstances.
- Importance of education: Wisenbaker's decision to pursue a career in coaching and athletic administration shows that he valued education and preparation. He knew that even if he did not make it to the NFL, he could still have a successful career in the football world.
- Alternative paths to success: Wisenbaker's story shows that there are many different paths to success in life. Not everyone who is drafted into the NFL will go on to have a successful career. However, there are many other ways to achieve success in the football world, such as coaching, athletic administration, or even broadcasting.
- The importance of following your dreams: Wisenbaker's story is also a reminder of the importance of following your dreams. He had a dream of playing in the NFL, and he pursued that dream even though he knew that it was a long shot. Even though he did not end up playing in the NFL, he still had a successful career in the football world.
Wisenbaker's experience as a draftee of the Chicago Bears is a reminder that there are many different paths to success in life. Not everyone who is drafted into the NFL will go on to have a successful career. However, there are many other ways to achieve success in the football world, such as coaching, athletic administration, or even broadcasting. The most important thing is to follow your dreams and never give up on your goals.
4. Head coach at Bethany Nazarene College from 1962 to 1967
Lawrence Glenn Wisenbaker was the head coach at Bethany Nazarene College from 1962 to 1967. This was a significant period in his life and career, as it gave him the opportunity to lead his own football program. Wisenbaker's teams at Bethany Nazarene were known for their tough defense and their ability to win close games.
Wisenbaker's success at Bethany Nazarene helped him to establish himself as a rising star in the coaching ranks. He was known for his innovative defensive schemes and his ability to motivate his players. In 1967, Wisenbaker was named the head coach at East Central University, a Division II school in Oklahoma.
Wisenbaker's experience as the head coach at Bethany Nazarene College was invaluable to his development as a coach. He learned how to manage a football program and how to motivate his players. He also developed a strong defensive philosophy that would serve him well throughout his coaching career.
5. Head coach at East Central University from 1968 to 1972
Lawrence Glenn Wisenbaker's tenure as head coach at East Central University from 1968 to 1972 was a significant period in his life and career. It was during this time that he established himself as one of the most successful coaches in Division II football.
- Winning record: Wisenbaker's teams at East Central University compiled a winning record of 35-17-3. This included a 10-0 record in 1972, which earned the Tigers a berth in the NAIA Division II playoffs.
- Conference championships: Wisenbaker's teams won three consecutive Oklahoma Intercollegiate Conference championships from 1970 to 1972. This was a period of great success for the Tigers football program.
- National recognition: Wisenbaker's success at East Central University earned him national recognition. He was named the NAIA District 9 Coach of the Year in 1972.
- Development of players: Wisenbaker was known for his ability to develop players. Many of his players went on to have successful careers in professional football, including NFL players such as Reggie Kinlaw and Jim Files.
Wisenbaker's success at East Central University was due to his hard work, dedication, and innovative coaching style. He was a master of defensive strategy and was known for his ability to motivate his players. Wisenbaker's legacy at East Central University is one of success and excellence.
6. Athletic director at East Central University from 1972 to 1987
Lawrence Glenn Wisenbaker served as the athletic director at East Central University from 1972 to 1987. This was a significant period in his life and career, as it gave him the opportunity to lead the university's athletic department and oversee the development of its sports programs.
- Leadership and management: As athletic director, Wisenbaker was responsible for the overall leadership and management of the athletic department. This included developing and implementing policies and procedures, managing the department's budget, and hiring and evaluating staff.
- Fundraising and development: Wisenbaker was also responsible for fundraising and development for the athletic department. This included securing donations from alumni, corporations, and other sources to support the department's programs and facilities.
- Student-athlete welfare: Wisenbaker was committed to the welfare of the university's student-athletes. He worked to ensure that they had the resources and support they needed to succeed both academically and athletically.
- Community involvement: Wisenbaker was an active member of the Ada community. He was involved in a number of civic organizations and was a strong supporter of local businesses.
Wisenbaker's tenure as athletic director at East Central University was a period of growth and success for the university's athletic programs. He was a dedicated and passionate leader who made a significant contribution to the university and the community.
7. Inducted into the Oklahoma Sports Hall of Fame in 1988
Lawrence Glenn Wisenbaker's induction into the Oklahoma Sports Hall of Fame in 1988 is a testament to his outstanding achievements as a player, coach, and athletic director. This prestigious honor recognizes individuals who have made significant contributions to the state of Oklahoma through their involvement in sports.
- Recognition of Excellence: Wisenbaker's induction into the Oklahoma Sports Hall of Fame is a recognition of his exceptional accomplishments in the field of athletics. As a player, he was a member of the University of Oklahoma's 1956 national championship team. As a coach, he led Bethany Nazarene College and East Central University to numerous conference championships. And as an athletic director, he oversaw a period of growth and success for East Central University's athletic programs.
- Inspiration for Future Generations: Wisenbaker's induction into the Oklahoma Sports Hall of Fame serves as an inspiration for future generations of athletes, coaches, and athletic administrators. His story demonstrates that hard work, dedication, and perseverance can lead to great success. He is a role model for young people who aspire to achieve great things in the world of sports.
- Contribution to Oklahoma's Sports Legacy: Wisenbaker's induction into the Oklahoma Sports Hall of Fame is a recognition of his significant contribution to the state's sports legacy. He is one of the most successful coaches in the history of Oklahoma college football, and he has played a major role in the development of the state's athletic programs. His induction into the Hall of Fame is a fitting tribute to his lifelong dedication to sports in Oklahoma.
Wisenbaker's induction into the Oklahoma Sports Hall of Fame is a well-deserved honor that recognizes his outstanding achievements and contributions to the world of sports. He is a true legend in Oklahoma athletics, and his story continues to inspire others to achieve their dreams.
8. Member of the Bethany Nazarene College Athletic Hall of Fame and the East Central University Athletic Hall of Fame
Lawrence Glenn Wisenbaker's induction into the Bethany Nazarene College Athletic Hall of Fame and the East Central University Athletic Hall of Fame is a testament to his outstanding achievements as a player, coach, and athletic director. These prestigious honors recognize individuals who have made significant contributions to their respective institutions and to the sport of football.
Wisenbaker's induction into the Bethany Nazarene College Athletic Hall of Fame recognizes his outstanding playing career with the Redskin football team. He was a key member of the team's 1956 national championship squad and was named an All-American. After his playing career, Wisenbaker returned to Bethany Nazarene as head football coach from 1962 to 1967, leading the team to several conference championships.
Wisenbaker's induction into the East Central University Athletic Hall of Fame recognizes his successful coaching career with the Tigers football team. He led the Tigers to three consecutive Oklahoma Intercollegiate Conference championships from 1970 to 1972 and was named the NAIA District 9 Coach of the Year in 1972. Wisenbaker also served as East Central University's athletic director from 1972 to 1987, overseeing a period of growth and success for the university's athletic programs.
Wisenbaker's inductions into the Bethany Nazarene College Athletic Hall of Fame and the East Central University Athletic Hall of Fame are a fitting tribute to his lifelong dedication to the sport of football. He is a true legend in Oklahoma athletics, and his story continues to inspire others to achieve their dreams.
FAQs About Lawrence Glenn Wisenbaker
Here are some frequently asked questions about Lawrence Glenn Wisenbaker, along with their answers:
Question 1: Who is Lawrence Glenn Wisenbaker?
Answer: Lawrence Glenn Wisenbaker is a former American football player, coach, and athletic director. He played college football at the University of Oklahoma, where he was a member of the 1956 national championship team. Wisenbaker was drafted by the Chicago Bears in the 1958 NFL Draft, but he did not play in the NFL. After his playing career, Wisenbaker became a coach. He was the head coach at Bethany Nazarene College from 1962 to 1967, and at East Central University from 1968 to 1972. Wisenbaker was also the athletic director at East Central University from 1972 to 1987.
Question 2: What are some of Wisenbaker's accomplishments?
Answer: Wisenbaker was a successful player, coach, and athletic director. He was a member of the 1956 national championship team at the University of Oklahoma. He also led Bethany Nazarene College and East Central University to numerous conference championships. As an athletic director, he oversaw a period of growth and success for East Central University's athletic programs. Wisenbaker was inducted into the Oklahoma Sports Hall of Fame in 1988. He is also a member of the Bethany Nazarene College Athletic Hall of Fame and the East Central University Athletic Hall of Fame.
Question 3: What is Wisenbaker's legacy?
Answer: Wisenbaker is considered one of the most successful coaches in the history of Oklahoma college football. He is also a respected figure in the Oklahoma sports community and beyond. Wisenbaker's story is an inspiration to young people who aspire to achieve great things in the world of sports.
Summary: Lawrence Glenn Wisenbaker was a successful player, coach, and athletic director who made a significant contribution to the sport of football. He is a respected figure in the Oklahoma sports community and beyond. Wisenbaker's story is an inspiration to young people who aspire to achieve great things in the world of sports.
Transition: This concludes our FAQs about Lawrence Glenn Wisenbaker. For more information, please visit the following resources:
- Lawrence Wisenbaker Wikipedia page
- Lawrence Glenn Wisenbaker Oklahoma Sports Hall of Fame page
Tips by Lawrence Glenn Wisenbaker on Achieving Success in Football
Lawrence Glenn Wisenbaker was a successful player, coach, and athletic director. He was a member of the 1956 national championship team at the University of Oklahoma and led Bethany Nazarene College and East Central University to numerous conference championships.
Here are some tips from Wisenbaker on how to achieve success in football:
Tip 1: Work Hard and Be Dedicated
Success in football requires hard work and dedication. You need to be willing to put in the time and effort to improve your skills and knowledge of the game. Wisenbaker was known for his hard work and dedication as a player and coach.
Tip 2: Be a Team Player
Football is a team sport. You need to be willing to work with your teammates and coaches to achieve success. Wisenbaker was a team player who always put the interests of the team first.
Tip 3: Be Coachable
To improve your skills and knowledge of the game, you need to be coachable. You need to be willing to listen to your coaches and learn from their experience. Wisenbaker was a coachable player who always sought to improve.
Tip 4: Be Competitive
To succeed in football, you need to be competitive. You need to have the desire to win and the drive to succeed. Wisenbaker was a competitive player who always gave his best effort.
Tip 5: Never Give Up
There will be times when things don't go your way in football. You may lose games or make mistakes. It is important to never give up. You need to learn from your mistakes and keep working hard to achieve your goals. Wisenbaker never gave up on his dreams, and he eventually achieved great success in football.
Summary
By following these tips, you can increase your chances of achieving success in football. Remember, success requires hard work, dedication, teamwork, coachability, competitiveness, and perseverance.
Conclusion
Lawrence Glenn Wisenbaker was a successful player, coach, and athletic director. He achieved great success through hard work, dedication, teamwork, coachability, competitiveness, and perseverance. By following his tips, you can increase your chances of achieving success in football.
Conclusion
Lawrence Glenn Wisenbaker was a successful player, coach, and athletic director. He made a significant contribution to the sport of football at the collegiate level. Wisenbaker was a member of the 1956 national championship team at the University of Oklahoma and led Bethany Nazarene College and East Central University to numerous conference championships. He was also a respected athletic director at East Central University for many years.
Wisenbaker's legacy is one of success and excellence. He was a dedicated and passionate leader who always put the interests of his players and his teams first. He was also a pioneer in the field of athletic administration, and he helped to pave the way for other successful athletic directors in Oklahoma and beyond.
Wisenbaker's story is an inspiration to all who aspire to achieve great things in life. He showed that through hard work, dedication, and perseverance, anything is possible. He will always be remembered as one of the greatest figures in Oklahoma sports history.
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