University of Nebraska - Kearney Athletics

Recognition: Athlete

Jim Irwin was a four-year letterman in football who earned All-American honors as an end his senior year while leading the Antelopes to the national semi-finals against Prairie View, Texas, in 1963. The team compiled a 9-0 regular season record and was ranked third in the country. During his football career, Irwin set game, season and career school records for receiving. His achievements landed him a professional contract with the Los Angeles Rams in 1964. He lettered three years as a discus thrower in track.