Elmer Oliphant

Bio

A man for all sports and an exceptional achiever in each, "Ollie" Oliphant started his college career at Purdue, where he won letters in football, basketball, baseball and track. But it was later, at Army, that his versatility posed an unusual problem for the Academy's athletic council. Until Oliphant's arrival, only two cadets, George Patton and George Beavers, had won letters in three major sports. Elmer won four, forcing the athletic council to design a special monogram which remains the only one of its kind. During a career at Purdue, Oliphant developed his swirling, wriggling style of ball-carrying. But it was his toe which provided one of Purdue's most dramatic victories. Oliphant had suffered a broken ankle early in a game with Illinois, yet returned to action and kicked a field goal that defeated the Illini, 3-0. At Army, Oliphant established Academy records for most points in a single game (45), and most points in a season (125). He gained All-America notice at both schools and was a consensus pick in 1916 and 1917. He also made All-America in basketball.

Career Highlights

• 1917 Consensus All-America
• 1916 Consensus All-America
• 1915 Second Team All-America
• 1913 All-Conference
• 1912 All-Conference