Wendell Williams (1995) - Hall of Fame

Wendell Williams

Induction:
1995
Class:
1963

A native of Mt. Pleasant, Iowa, Wendell Williams is been considered one of the best defensive guards in Northern Iowa history.

Williams played football for the Panthers from 1958-61 and wrestled from 1960-62. He graduated in 1963 with a degree in Physical Education and later received his Masters and his Administration Certification in 1981.

Football was his primary sport as a Panther. He earned his first varsity letter as a sophomore, playing guard and wearing No. 60. In 1960, he helped UNI to nine straight victories and the North Central Conference Championship while being named first team all-conference and to other all-league teams. In 1961, as the school changed its name from Iowa State Teachers College to State College of Iowa, Williams was named All-American. As a team co-captain, he was named first team guard on the Little All-America Team by the Associated Press, as well as repeating his All-North Central Conference selection.

Williams went on to coach high school football for a number of area schools. He was named 1A District Coach of the Year in 1964 after his Gladbrook High School team won the conference championship. He then moved to Cedar Falls High School as a defensive coach from 1967-73, during which the school compiled a 41-21 record. After moving to Charles City, he became the head football coach from 1974-80 and was also an assistant wrestling coach.