J. Huber "Hube" Wagner (January 5, 1891 – March 1979) was an American football player who played college football at the University of Pittsburgh from 1910 until 1913 before becoming a prominent surgeon in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.

Hube Wagner
refer to caption
Wagner playing at Pitt in 1913
Personal information
Born:January 5, 1891
Monaca, Pennsylvania
Died:March 1979 (aged 88)
Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
Career information
High school:Monaca (PA)
College:Pittsburgh
Position:End
Career history

Formative years

edit

While still a student at Monaca High School, Wagner was hailed by the media for being one of Pennsylvania's most versatile football players. He then made the varsity squad as a freshman at the University of Pittsburgh, where he was an end player. That season Pitt posted a 9–0 record. Although Wagner was primarily used as an end at Pitt moving forward, Pitt's coach Joe Thompson developed him into a utility player, using him at every other position except quarterback. In 1913, Wagner captained the Pitt team and received All-American honors.

In 1915, he was recruited by Jack Cusack, the manager of the Canton Bulldogs to play for the Bulldogs against their rivals the Massillon Tigers.

Medical career

edit

After graduation, Wagner became a prominent surgeon in Pittsburgh, treating patients until his retirement in 1975. He also served twelve years on the University of Pittsburgh's board of trustees.

Awards and other honors

edit

Wagner was elected to the College Football Hall of Fame in 1973.

References

edit
  • Beaver County Sportsman's Hall of Fame
  • PFRA Research. "Thrope Arrives" (PDF). Coffin Corner. Professional Football Researchers Association: 1–5. Archived from the original (PDF) on March 11, 2012.