Jack Springer

Jack H. Springer was inducted into the inaugural College of Applied Human Sciences Hall of Fame in 2025. He was previously inducted into the College of Physical Activity and Sport Sciences Hall of Fame in 1991.

A native of Sistersville, W.Va., Springer was born in 1917 and played football at Sistersville High School under Floyd “Ben” Schwartzwalder. He enrolled at West Virginia University in 1937, where he participated in ROTC, track, football, and campus organizations including Sigma Chi and Fi Batar Cappar. After graduating in 1941, Springer served five years in the U.S. Army, earning battle stars for his service in Normandy, northern France, and the Rhineland, and receiving the Bronze Star as an athletic officer in the Army’s Special Services.

Springer began his postwar career as a teacher and coach in Virginia, working in high schools for eight years before moving to Statesville, N.C., in 1954 to become Director of Recreation and Parks. He served in that role for 28 years, earning the North Carolina Recreation and Parks Society’s Fellow Award in 1969 and its Meritorious Service Award in 1981. Statesville named its 24 horseshoe courts in his honor in 1983.

Springer held leadership roles with the local Shriner's Club and Cancer Association and supported youth sports throughout the community. He also remained connected to his roots, organizing a West Virginia Club in Statesville and serving as president of the Charlotte Chapter of the WVU Alumni Association.

Springer passed away on December 6, 1991.