Former Hamilton College football player and track and field athlete Jeff Hewitt '74 returned to campus and was recognized for his athletic accomplishments by the department of athletics during Hamilton's Reunion Weekend on Saturday, June 5.
Hewitt was selected a College Division honorable mention All-American by the Associated Press in 1973 and went on to the National Football League, where he played 10 games for the Dallas Cowboys in 1974. He is believed to be the first and only Hamilton student-athlete to sign a professional football contract. Hewitt also played in a handful of games in the Canadian Football League in 1975.
The Jamesville-DeWitt High School graduate excelled at defensive tackle and fullback for the football team, and the weight events in track and field. Hewitt was named the 1974 recipient of the Gelas Memorial Prize, which is given to the athlete that exhibits the greatest development in strength of character, leadership and athletic ability during his college career. He also earned the Block H Trophy for his eight varsity letters and most valuable player awards in both football and track.
Hewitt was named the football team's captain for his senior year, when he averaged approximately 10 unassisted tackles per game despite drawing two and sometimes three blockers. Hewitt was known for his tremendous quickness and relentless pass rush, as well as his all-around athleticism. On offense, he was a devastating blocker from his fullback position.
