Rhodes College Athletics

When Southwestern moved from Clarksville to Memphis in 1925 the college was looking for a few good men to fill out its football and basketball rosters. The Lynx found just the man in Dode Farnsworth, who began the tradition of Southwestern student-athletes who were scholars, leaders and multisport stars.

Dode Farnsworth arrived at Southwestern as a freshman the year the college opened its doors on North Parkway. As a student leader, Dode served as a member of the Panhellenic Council, Student Council and the prestigious “13” Club.

A member of the second class which entered Southwestern after the College moved to Memphis, Dode Farnsworth excelled in both football and basketball. On the gridiron he was an outstanding running back, and he played guard in basketball. Dode served as captain of the football and basketball teams. For his accomplishments on the field and court, Dode was voted the Best Athlete on Campus.

In recognition of his accomplishments as a student, athlete and pioneer of varsity athletics at his alma mater, Rhodes is honored to induct the late GEORGE L. “DODE” FARNSWORTH into the Rhodes Athletic Hall of Fame, this 10th day of October, 2003.