Rhodes Athletic Hall of Fame
As a four-year starter for the Lynx in football, Robert Echols rarely came out of the game. When he wasn’t playing quarterback or safety, he was returning kickoffs and punts. Since graduating from Southwestern in 1962 he has rarely come out of the game of life. He has served as a United States District Judge since 1992. From 1966 to 2001, Robert served in the Tennessee Army National Guard, earning the rank of Brigadier General.
Hall of Fame Coach Rick Mays served as Southwestern’s Head Football Coach from 1958 through 1960. Coach Mays quickly recognized Robert’s athletic ability and started the newcomer from South Side High School at quarterback and safety his freshman and sophomore years. During Robert’s junior year he injured his shoulder. Coach Mays couldn’t afford to take his star safety out of the game. He was one of the leading tacklers on the team. So they put a little extra padding on his shoulder and sent him back in the game. For his outstanding play and leadership, he was selected a Co-Captain of the football team his senior year in 1961.
At 5’11”, 192 lbs, Robert Echols used his arm strength as an outstanding third baseman. He had a pretty keen eye as well. He was a four-year starter with a career batting average of over .300. Robert served as Co-Captain his sophomore, junior and senior years, and was named the team’s Most Valuable Player in 1960. He was a member of the fabulous ’61 Lynx team that captured the NCAA Collegiate National Championship.
Robert’s leadership and service extended well beyond the baseball and football fields. He served as President and Secretary of the Sigma Alpha Epsilon fraternity and President of the men’s freshmen dormitory. He was a member of the German Club, Intrafraternity Council, Sanhedrin, “S” Club, and during his free time he played intramurals. He was named to Who’s Who in American Colleges and Universities. Robert was an outstanding student and was presented the Seidman Award at graduation for excellence in scholarship and athletics.
For his service to his country, his love of his teammates and coaches and his commitment to excellence and scholarship, we are proud to induct Robert Lynn Echols into the Rhodes Athletic Hall of Fame this 20th day of October, 2006.
