Frank Lomax (1987) - Hall of Fame - University of Akron Athletics

Frank Lomax

Induction:
1987
Class:
1962

1959-62
Football
‘62

Nowadays, recruiting junior college athletes is commonplace in building strong programs. The Hall of Famer’s claim to fame is that he is the first junior college transfer on record to play football for UA. However, in this case, Frank Lomax III an Akron native and North High graduate, wasn’t recruited. After quarterbacking, Edward Waters Junior College of Jacksonville, FL to a 9-1-1 record, Lomax transferred to UA in 1958. After sitting out one season, he became one of the best “walk-ons” to play for Head Coach Joe McMullen in 1959 and ’60. A two-way performer, Lomax excelled in offense in 1959 as he led the Zips in scoring with 42 points to earn the Most Outstanding Junior (Class) Award. Of note, was Lomax’s debut performance as a Zip gridder, in the season opening 29-23 win at Mount Union, Lomax scored an all-time UA record-tying tour touchdowns, including the game winner-a 70 yard kickoff return with 1:17 to go in the game. The following season, Lomax lead UA in rushing but, excelled enough as a safety to become the only Zip player to earn first team All- Ohio Conference. Needless to say, Lomax was voted UA’s Most Outstanding Back and earned honorable mention Williamson Little All-America honors.