Hall of Fame
Bill Backes was a standout on the Kearney State track and field and football teams. A four-year letterwinner in both sports, he twice led the Lopers in rushing while being the second-best receiver at the same time. On the track, Backes was an All-American in the 400-hurdles. Â
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The Columbus native helped football win three straight Nebraska College Conference (NCC) titles and was part of the 1963 squad that made the NAIA Playoffs and was ranked in the top five nationally. During that era, the playoff field consisted of just four teams with KSC making its' inaugural appearance in 1963. Also a punt and kick returner, Backes still ranks fourth in school history in yards per carry (6.5) and is tied for eighth in career rushing touchdowns (22). For his efforts, he was a one-time All-District and two-time All-Conference selection.
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In the spring of 1963, he earned All-American honors in the 400-hurdles at the NAIA Championships in Sioux Falls. Backes finished fifth (54.70) with the speedster a key member of relay teams that helped the Lopers dominate the NCC Championships on an annual basis.
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Backes is retired and lives in Columbus with his wife, Ginny. He previously was the activity director at Southeast Community College in Milford.
