1997 HALL OF FAME INDUCTEE | REX WAYNE JACKSON
Wrestling has often been a forgotten sport at Milligan College, but the efforts and abilities of Milligan wrestlers will always be remembered, especially those of Rex Wayne Jackson.
Jackson attended Milligan College from 1962 to 1967 and was a founding member of the wrestling team. He wrestled for all his college years and was undefeated in dual meet competitions in the 177-pound weight class.
Jackson's tournament record was also phenomenal. He won second place in the Second Annual Chattanooga Intercollegiate Invitational his freshman year and first place the following two years. He also won first in the Southern Open Invitational three years in a row, the Southeastern Intercollegiate Wrestling Tournament two years in a row and the Georgia Tech Open Invitational in 1967. Jackson was voted Most Outstanding Wrestler in the 1964-65 season.
Jackson's enthusiasm and encouragement influenced the entire wrestling team. He often helped recruit and coach less experienced wrestlers and substituted for Coach Crowder when his teaching responsibilities kept him off the mat. Jackson was a team player and would often compete at whatever weight class would help the team as a whole. He often wrestled at heavyweight, compromising his chance of winning.
At the Milligan College annual awards banquet in 1967, Jackson received the award for Most Valuable Wrestler and the first and only award given for Outstanding Leadership Wrestling at Milligan College.
Jackson's accomplishments at Milligan did not end with wrestling. He also demonstrated leadership within the student body as a member of the Civitan Club, the Fellowship of Christian Athletes, student council, and dorm council. He was also named in "Who's Who in American Colleges and Universities."
After graduation, Jackson was the head wrestling coach at the University of Georgia from 1967 to 1969. He then had a successful career in the public schools of San Diego, California.
Dr. Crowder described Jackson as sensitive, kind, helpful to the needs of others and not only a splendid athlete but also a gentleman. Jackson did all he could to get the best from every man on the team. He is remembered as encouraging to opponents and highly praised by coaches.
Rex Jackson, under Coach Crowder's leadership, is considered the cornerstone of Milligan College wrestling. The Athletics Hall of Fame is proud to honor this fantastic athlete and student.