Throughout history, 45 individuals have held the position of President of the United States, several of whom were recognized as athletes before entering politics.
At least 11 U.S. Presidents excelled in college sports at a high level, participating in a variety of athletic competitions. Over the years, many Presidents have shown a strong interest in athletics, often honoring student-athletes by hosting national championship teams at the White House.
The intersection of politics and sports has been evident, particularly as the NCAA navigates the evolving landscape of Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) regulations. A significant figure in the realm of college athletics was Theodore Roosevelt, who, while not a competitor himself, played a vital role in establishing the NCAA. His intervention came during a time when Harvard’s athletic director considered abolishing football, ultimately leading to the formation of the Intercollegiate Athletic Association, which was renamed NCAA in 1910.
Presidents Who Played College Sports
Roosevelt’s influence set a precedent for subsequent presidents regarding NCAA athletics. Football appears to be the most popular sport among this group, although others like baseball, wrestling, swimming, sailing, and tennis are also represented. Below is a look at 11 U.S. Presidents who engaged in college athletics, along with their achievements and school affiliations.
William Taft
Taft, known for being one of the heaviest U.S. Presidents, achieved notable success in wrestling at Yale University, competing in the 225-pound class on an intramural team and becoming the school’s first heavyweight champion.
Woodrow Wilson
Wilson played one season of baseball at Davidson as an outfielder, although his academic pursuits often took precedence over sports. He was recognized for his performance as a pinch hitter and defender before transferring to Princeton after just one year.
Dwight Eisenhower
Eisenhower, the 34th president, played college football at Army, serving as both a halfback and linebacker for two seasons until an injury ended his playing days. He later received the inaugural Theodore Roosevelt Award in 1967 and even coached the Army junior varsity team.
John F. Kennedy
While at Harvard, Kennedy participated in various sports, including football, swimming, and golf, ultimately excelling in sailing. He was part of a sailing crew that won an Eastern Collegiate Championship and was honored by the Harvard Varsity Club years later.
Ronald Reagan
Reagan played three seasons of football at Eureka College, contributing to the athletics program by also excelling in track and field. He was inducted into Eureka’s Athletics Hall of Fame and had a brief stint as a sports radio announcer before his acting career.
Donald Trump
Trump played squash and tennis during his time at Fordham University before transferring to the University of Pennsylvania. He has shared his perspectives on college sports, advocating for the protection of non-revenue sports through various initiatives.
