Phil Minnick (1998) - Hall of Fame

Phil Minnick

Induction:
1998
Class:
1965

Playing at the collegiate level is a dream of every young boy and girl, and even fewer get to play at the professional level. Phil Minnick was able to excel at both levels.

During UNI collegiate career, the Iowa City native was co-captain of the football team in 1963 and 1964. The Panthers finished first in the North Central Conference in 1964 and played in the Pecan Bowl with a victory over Lamar Tech. Minnick was voted the Most Valuable Lineman in the NCC that same year and was an honorable mention all-American in 1963 and 1964.

After receiving his bachelor's degree in education, he joined the Winnipeg Blue Bombers in 1965, playing eight years - 1965-69, 1971, 1972 and 1973. His career leaped right into the limelight when in his rookie year, he recovered a Canadian Football League-record three fumbles in the Grey Cup game against Hamilton. His popularity grew, and he was named to the All-Pro CFL teams in 1966, 1967, and 1968. He was recognized as the Bombers' Most Valuable Lineman in 1966, 1967, 1968, and 1969 by being named the Club's Schenley nominee at that position. He also was awarded the Dr. Bert Oja Trophy as Outstanding Lineman in 1967, 1968, and 1969. In addition, he justifiably was named the club's Most Popular Player in 1969 as recipient of the Air Canada Trophy. He also was team captain during the 1967, 1968, and 1969 seasons.

He was elected into the CFL Hall of Fame in 1988. Throughout his career, he demonstrated that football could be played with dedication, athletic ability and intelligence.