Perhaps it’s all genetic or maybe Phil Mulkey’s athletic talents were developed by hanging out with his Dad at track workouts and meets at an early age. Perhaps Phil’s competitive fire came from racing, jumping and throwing against his younger brother Tim? Whatever the source, Phil Mulkey’s passion for training and competing provided Rhodes with one of it’s all-time great athletes.
Like most decathaletes, Phil Mulkey was extremely versatile. Beyond his versatility was an intense desire to train at a high level and to contribute to his team in any event he was needed. In a dual meet with Vanderbilt his senior year Phil participated in nine events and almost single handedly won the meet for the Lynx.
Phil was a four-time national qualifier in the decathalon during his career at Rhodes. He placed 10th in the decathalon at the NCAA meet as a freshman and sophomore and 8th in his junior and senior years. In 1977 he received the Freeman Marr Award for being the Most Valuable Athlete on the track and field team. His personal best of 6393 points ranks 2nd on Rhodes all-time decathalon scoring list.
Phil also was an outstanding football player starting in the defensive secondary for three years. He was selected to the All College Athletic Conference team as a strong safety in 1975. Phil was member of Lynx defensive squads which ranked in the top three in the nation in 1974 and 1975. He also served as a Resident Advisor during his junior and senior years.
To this day Phil Mulkey provides the same dedication, loyalty and hard work he displayed as an athlete as a faithful and supportive alumnus of Rhodes. For the distinction he brought his alma mater, the friendships he forged with his teammates and coaches, the excellence he achieved on the track and gridiron, Rhodes is honored to induct Philip Patrick Mulkey to the Rhodes Athletic Hall of Fame this 7th day of October, 2005.
