Clarence “Doc” Spears stands out as a remarkable figure in the history of college football. Born in DeWitt, Arkansas, in 1894, Spears balanced an interest in both sports and medicine. He made significant contributions to football, earning his place in the Hall of Fame.
As an All-American guard at Dartmouth College, he showcased incredible strength, leading to his selection as a consensus All-American in 1914 and 1915.
Spears’ career didn’t stop there; he became one of the most respected coaches in the game, with stints at notable institutions such as Dartmouth and West Virginia University. Torn between his love for football and medicine, he chose to focus on football long enough to leave a lasting legacy. His influence stretched across various states, including significant achievements in Minnesota, where he also coached.
Apart from his athletic achievements, Clarence Spears‘ net worth is of interest to many who follow the financial aspects of sports legends. His career in football and his other ventures contributed to his lasting legacy. This dynamic between his dual interests in sports and medicine makes Spears’ story one worth exploring further, both for his impact on the field and his contributions to college football’s rich history.
Who Is Clarence Spears?
Clarence Spears, also known as “Doc” Spears, was a famous American football player and coach, and his contributions to the sport have left a lasting impact. This section covers details about his upbringing, places of residence, family life, and children.
Where Did Clarence Spears Grow Up?
Clarence Spears was born in DeWitt, Arkansas, on July 24, 1894. His early years were spent in this small town, which shaped much of his character and outlook on life.
After spending a significant part of his youth in DeWitt, Arkansas, Spears attended Kewanee High School in Illinois. This move marked the start of his journey in football, laying the foundation for his future career. His high school years in Kewanee were crucial in developing his football skills and academic abilities.
Where Did Clarence Spears Live?
Throughout his life, Clarence Spears lived in various places due to his career in football.
After high school in Kewanee, Illinois, he attended Dartmouth College, where he gained fame as an All-America guard. Following his college years, Spears moved frequently as he assumed coaching positions at several colleges.
He eventually settled in Jupiter, Florida, where he lived until his death on February 1, 1964. His time in Jupiter marked his final years, where he enjoyed a quiet life after retiring from his coaching career.
Who Is Clarence Spears Married To?
Clarence Spears married Annette Rhodes, sharing many years together. The couple had a strong relationship, balancing Spears’s demanding career in football with a nurturing home life.
Annette played a key role in supporting her husband’s professional endeavors, standing by him through the numerous moves associated with his coaching career. Their marriage is often remembered for its stability and dedication, which was evident in both their personal and professional lives.
Does Clarence Spears Have Children?
Clarence Spears did have children; however, specific details about his children are not widely documented. He maintained a private family life away from the limelight of his football career.
Spears’s focus on both his professional achievements and family commitments showcases his ability to balance multiple roles effectively. His children, though not in the public eye, were undoubtedly influenced by their father’s dedication and work ethic.
Clarence Spears College Football Career
Clarence Spears left an indelible mark on college football both as a player and a coach. His contributions to the game and the accolades he earned highlight his esteemed career.
Where Did Clarence Spears Play College Football?
Clarence Spears began his college football journey at Knox College in Illinois.
He later transferred to Dartmouth College, where he played as a guard. Spears’s time at Dartmouth was significant, playing from 1912 to 1915. He was known for his robust playing style and was a key member of the team. Additionally, his performance garnered national attention, making him an All-American guard.
Did Clarence Spears Coach College Football?
Following his playing days, Spears transitioned into coaching. His coaching career began at Dartmouth in 1917, where he served as head coach for four seasons. He helped the team achieve a notable record during his tenure.
Spears then coached at several other institutions, including West Virginia University, the University of Wisconsin, and the University of Minnesota. His career also included stints with the University of Oregon and the University of Toledo, guiding these teams to improved performances.
What Awards Did Clarence Spears Accomplish In College Football?
As a player, Spears was recognized as an All-American guard during his time at Dartmouth. His exceptional performance in college football eventually led to his induction into the College Football Hall of Fame in 1955.
This prestigious honor underscores his impact on the sport, celebrating his achievements and contributions as both a player and a coach. His legacy is preserved alongside other football greats, acknowledging his dedication and influence in college football history.
What Bowl Games Did Clarence Spears Win In College Football?
During Spears’s tenure as a coach, he led various teams to significant victories. Notably, while at the University of Toledo, he scheduled a season-ending “bowl game” against St. Mary’s in San Antonio, Texas.
Although details of bowl wins during his coaching career are sparse, his ability to schedule and participate in such games demonstrates his forward-thinking approach to football scheduling and competition.
Clarence Spears Professional Football Career
Clarence Spears made significant contributions to football both as a player and a coach. His career spanning several roles, including his extensive coaching tenure, earned him numerous accolades and recognition in the sport.
Did Clarence Spears Play In The NFL?
No, Clarence Spears did not play in the NFL. His notable playing career was rooted in college football. Spears was a standout guard at Dartmouth College, where he helped the team achieve a 15-2-1 record. He first played for Knox College in Illinois before transferring to Dartmouth. His performance at Dartmouth played a significant role in his induction into the College Football Hall of Fame. Rather than pursuing a professional playing career, he shifted his focus to coaching and later to practicing medicine.
Did Clarence Spears Coach In The NFL?
Clarence Spears did not coach in the NFL. Instead, his coaching career was prominent in college football. After his playing days, he served as the head football coach for several university teams. Spears coached at Dartmouth College, West Virginia University (WVU), University of Wisconsin, University of Minnesota, and University of Oregon among others.
At WVU, he owned the highest winning percentage of any Mountaineer football coach with at least a four-year tenure, compiling a 30-6-3 record. His 30-year coaching career ended in 1945 when he retired to practice medicine in Michigan.
What Awards Did Clarence Spears Accomplish In Professional Football?
Clarence Spears earned several notable awards and honors throughout his football career. He was inducted into the College Football Hall of Fame in 1955, recognizing his outstanding contributions as a player and coach.
At WVU, his impressive coaching record secured his spot in the WVU Sports Hall of Fame in 1997. Beyond individual accolades, Spears’ guidance helped many of his players achieve All-American status, further cementing his legacy as a celebrated football coach.
Did Clarence Spears Win A Super Bowl?
Clarence Spears did not win a Super Bowl. His career peaked before the establishment of the Super Bowl, which was first played in 1967. Spears’ contributions to football are cemented in his college coaching success and his influence in developing the sport at that level. As a head coach, he led teams to numerous victories and shaped many players’ careers, but his era preceded the advent of the Super Bowl, limiting his professional accolades to those achievable in his time.
What Is Clarence Spears Up To Now?
Clarence “Doc” Spears, known for his remarkable career in football coaching and medicine, left a lasting impact on both fields. Here’s an update on his current life and activities.
Is Clarence Spears Still Involved In Football?
Clarence Spears passed away on February 1, 1964. During his lifetime, he was influential in football, coaching at various colleges including Dartmouth, West Virginia University, and Knox College. He left a significant mark, especially at West Virginia University, where he achieved an impressive record of 30-6-3 between 1921 and 1924. Since his passing, Clarence Spears has not been involved in football as a coach or player.
Does Clarence Spears Do Private Speaking Engagements?
Given that Clarence Spears passed away in 1964, he does not participate in private speaking engagements. During his lifetime, he was very much in demand for his knowledge and experiences in football and medicine. Though he would have likely been a captivating speaker, sharing his dual passions for football and medicine, it is not possible for him to engage in such activities.
Does Clarence Spears Have A Podcast?
Clarence Spears did not live in the era of podcasts. Therefore, he has no involvement in podcasting. Though he was known for his knowledge in football and medicine, and likely would have shared valuable insights had the technology existed, there are no records of any audio recordings or broadcasts where he discusses his contributions to sports or medicine.
Has Clarence Spears Gone Into Broadcasting?
Clarence Spears did not transition into broadcasting during his lifetime. Although he had extensive knowledge of football and might have provided thoughtful commentary on the sport, he chose to focus on coaching and medicine. He did not pursue a career in radio or television broadcasting. Today, archives and historical references remain the primary sources of information about his career and contributions.
What Is Clarence Spears Net Worth?
Clarence Spears, also known as “Doc” Spears, made significant contributions to college football both as a player and coach. Despite his fame, estimating his net worth isn’t straightforward.
During his era, football coaches and players did not earn as much as they do today. Therefore, Spears’ net worth would have been modest compared to modern athletes.
Income Sources:
- Spears earned a salary as a football coach at several universities including Dartmouth, West Virginia University, and other institutions.
- He was also a practicing doctor, which supplemented his income.
Given these factors and comparing contemporaneous earnings, it’s unlikely Spears amassed significant wealth by today’s standards.
Estimation Process:
Based on historical data, college football coaches in the early 20th century earned modest salaries. Combining this with his earnings as a doctor, Spears’ net worth would have been middle-class by the standards of his time.
For more details about Clarence Spears’ career and contributions, you can visit his profile on the National Football Foundation website or College Football Hall of Fame.