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Donn Moomaw

Center

Inducted 1973

Date of Birth

10/15/1931

Birthplace

Santa Ana, CA

School

University of California, Los Angeles (1950-1952)

Bio

Long after Donn Moomaw left the gridiron at UCLA, the Presbyterian minister might have been heard preaching a sermon entitled, "Whither Thou Goest I Shall Go." It would have been a familiar theme to the greatest center-linebacker in UCLA football history, as Moomaw had a great ability to diagnose play development. At the time, his 11 career pass interceptions tied him with Bob Waterfield on UCLA's all-time interception list. At 6-4 and 220 pounds, Moomaw was strong, rangy and agile. His finest season came when he was a senior in 1952. His defensive strength paced the Bruins to an 8-1 record, the campaign marred only by a bitter 14-12 loss to rival Southern California in a game which decided the Pacific Coast Conference title. Moomaw's personal acclaim skyrocketed. The Associated Press and United Press International selected Moomaw as the nation's Lineman of the Year, and he was named MVP in the North-South All-Star Game in Miami. He placed fourth in the Heisman vote. UCLA fans had a chant where one group of fans would yell, "moo". This was answered by another group yelling, "maw." Following a successful professional career in the Canadian Football League, Moomaw completed his theological studies and became a Presbyterian minister.