Frank "Doc" Wargo (1978) - Hall of Fame - University of Akron Athletics

Frank "Doc" Wargo

Induction:
1978
Class:
1928

1924-28
End/Fullback/Punter

Frank Wargo is what you might call “home bred.” He never strayed too far from his hometown of Akron and spent a major portion of his career in the southern section of the city. He took an avid interest in athletics and excelled at football, basketball, and track at Akron South High School.

During those early days, he picked up the nickname “Doc” which stayed with him throughout his life. It is said the moniker came about, because he used to carry his athletic equipment in a little black bag.

Wargo did attempt to leave Akron in 1923, but after one semester at Washington and Jefferson, he transferred to Akron. He played end in 1924 and 1925 for James Coleman. That latter year, despite UA’s 1-7 record, Wargo was selected second-team All-Ohio.

In 1926, as captain he led the Zippers to their first winning season in seven years, 5-5-2. During this senior campaign, Wargo was shifted to fullback and provided the needed punch with his steady line plunging and punting.

As a punter he was exceptional—booting the pigskin 39 times for an average of 42.1 yards in 1926.

For a time Wargo continued his playing days for the South Akron Awnings, a semi-pro team. However, in 1929 he succeeded his former coach, “Smiley” Weltner at South High. In 18 years, Wargo guided the Cavaliers to City titles in football in 1934, 1938, 1939, and 1944 and in basketball in 1936, 1940, 1942, 1946, and 1947. During his coaching career he tutored such greats as UA Hall of Famers Fritz Nagy, and Gordon Larson, Wyndol Gray, Ara Parseghian, and many others.