Frank Rockwell (1982) - Hall of Fame - University of Akron Athletics

Frank Rockwell

Induction:
1982

1895-1900
Football
Right End, Tackle, Halfback and Fullback
Recognized as one of the school’s earliest athletic stars, Frank Rockwell competed in both football and baseball from 1895-1900 for Buchtel College (BC), forerunner of the University of Akron. That first season, Rockwell not only played and was captain, but served as the acting coach along with Archie Eves for the 1895 football team when the squad found itself without a mentor. The team finished with a 3-2 record with Frank playing five different positions over the course of the season—at right end, both tackle spots, halfback and fullback. And as was the norm for the era, he played the entire game—offensively and defensively. Rockwell was known primarily for his defensive prowess and as a hard tackler. In 1896 he again captained the football team though they would compete only one game. Following 1896, Buchtel College witnessed two lean years when they couldn’t field enough players to establish a varsity team. Over that period, Frank could be found refereeing freshman and city games. Football and Rockwell returned to the Hilltop in 1899 for three games, the came back in full force in 1900 for a five-game season. As per usual, Frank played both ways in a multitude of positions and even served as a punt returner. In his career ending game he scored a touchdown and sparked the defense to a 21-0 decision over Kirkwood A.C. to establish BC as the top football team in the city. As with football, Frank’s ability to play a variety of positions was his key to success in baseball. He competed for BC in the three years the school provided a squad—1895, 1897, and 1899. Defense was again his specialty as he played at third base, and in both left and center fields.