Here's what you younger Jayhawks need to know about John Hadl.
In 1961 Coach Jack Mitchell made an unusual change by moving Lawrence native John Hadl from halfback to quarterback prior to his junior season. Hadl was also the punter, setting a KU record that still stands and one that led the nation for many years – a season punting average at 45.6 yards. He also holds the record for the longest punt of 94 yards against Oklahoma in 1960. I was there. I saw it – a quick kick that just bounced and bounced and bounced!
Hadl also holds the record for the longest kick-off return of 97-yards against Syracuse. He also set a record that stood for over 50 years with the longest pass interception return of 98-yards against TCU. He was named first-team All-American as a halfback in 1960 and a first-team All-American at quarterback in 1961. He led the Jayhawks to their first bowl victory, a 33–7 win over the Rice Owls in the Bluebonnet Bowl in Houston, Texas, signing his pro contract under the goal posts after the game. I watched the game on TV. The contract signing was carried on TV as well, as this was the beginning of the “war” to sign college footballers between the established NFL and the upstart AFL. Hadl was named the MVP of the East-West Shrine Game AND the College All-Star game, the only player to be so-honored. Of course, Hadl went on to a pro Hall of Fame career playing quarterback for the San Diego Chargers, still wearing #21.
