Births on May 2

Bill Horr, American football player, discus thrower, and coach (d. 1955)

Marquis Franklin "Bill" Horr (May 2, 1880 – July 1, 1955) was a truly versatile American athlete and coach whose career spanned the nascent years of modern college football and the revival of the Olympic Games. Born at the cusp of the 20th century, Horr distinguished himself across multiple demanding disciplines, leaving a notable legacy in both gridiron competition and track and field.

A Collegiate Dual-Threat: Football and Track at Syracuse

Horr's athletic prowess first shone brightly during his time at Syracuse University, where he was a formidable presence on the football field. Playing as a tackle, a position requiring immense strength and strategic acumen, he earned the prestigious honor of being selected as an All-American in 1908. This recognition placed him among the nation's elite college football players during an era when the sport was rapidly evolving and capturing the public's imagination. Beyond the football field, Horr also showcased his diverse talents as a competitor in track and field for Syracuse, laying the groundwork for his future international acclaim.

Olympic Glory in London, 1908

The pinnacle of Bill Horr's athletic career arrived at the 1908 Summer Olympics held in London, United Kingdom. It was here that he demonstrated exceptional skill in the discus throw, a discipline with deep roots in ancient athletic traditions. Horr achieved a remarkable feat by securing two medals in the event. He earned a silver medal in the "Greek Style" discus throw, an event that perhaps sought to harken back to the classical throwing techniques, and a bronze medal in the "freestyle" discus throw, which more closely resembled the modern rotational technique that allows for greater distance. His dual medal success in a single Olympic event underscored his mastery of the sport's varied approaches.

Transition to Coaching: Leading College Programs

Following his stellar playing career and Olympic achievements, Horr transitioned to the sidelines, bringing his deep understanding of football to coaching. His journey as a head football coach began at Northwestern University in 1909. Subsequently, he took the helm at Purdue University, serving as head coach from 1910 through the 1912 season. Over these formative years in college football coaching, Bill Horr compiled a career record of 9–14–2. While this record might appear modest by contemporary standards, it represents his contribution during a foundational period where coaching philosophies and team structures were still very much in development across the burgeoning landscape of collegiate athletics.

Frequently Asked Questions about Bill Horr

Who was Marquis Franklin "Bill" Horr?

Marquis Franklin "Bill" Horr was an American athlete and coach known for his accomplishments as a college football player, an Olympic track and field medalist, and a head football coach at two major universities.

What were Bill Horr's main athletic achievements?

He was an All-American tackle in college football at Syracuse University in 1908. In track and field, he won a silver medal in the Greek Style discus throw and a bronze medal in the freestyle discus throw at the 1908 Summer Olympics in London.

Which universities did Bill Horr coach?

Bill Horr served as the head football coach at Northwestern University in 1909 and at Purdue University from 1910 to 1912.

What was the significance of his All-American selection?

Being an All-American in 1908 recognized him as one of the top college football players in the United States during a crucial period of the sport's development and increasing popularity.

What is the difference between "Greek Style" and "Freestyle" discus throw, as competed in 1908?

At the 1908 Olympics, the "Greek Style" discus likely aimed to replicate ancient throwing techniques, possibly with less rotation or a more static start. The "freestyle" discus, conversely, allowed for the dynamic, full-body rotation that is characteristic of the modern discus throw, designed to maximize distance.

What was Bill Horr's overall coaching record?

Across his coaching tenures at Northwestern and Purdue, Bill Horr compiled a career head coaching record of 9 wins, 14 losses, and 2 ties.