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University of Nebraska - Kearney Athletics

Hall of Fame

Travis Vallin

  • Class
    1991
  • Induction
    2017
  • Sport(s)
    Football, Track & Field
Travis Vallin was a standout on the football and track teams from 1987-1991. He remains one of the most prolific receivers and return man in Loper football history as well as being a track record holder.
 
On the gridiron, Vallin was part of the transition not only from NAIA to NCAA Division II but also from an offense that started to emphasize the pass more. He and fellow Hall of Famer, Doug Banks, were a big reason for the switch. Vallin ended his career with 108 receptions for 1,866 yards and 13 TD's. At the time of graduation, he ranked second only to Banks in career receiving yards.
 
Averaging 21.8 yards per catch in 1989, Vallin helped the Lopers win six games in 1987 and 1990. His senior campaign, UNK's first in Division II, saw victories over South Dakota State, West Texas A&M and Northwest Missouri State.
 
Bringing back 60 kickoffs for 1,381 yards (23.0 avg.) in his career, Vallin amassed 162 return yards and a touchdown in the 1990 win over the Bearcats. This versatile skill set led him to a free agent deal with the NFL's Cincinnati Bengals.
 
On the track, the 1987 USA Today Male Kansas Athlete of the Year still holds the Loper record in the 400 hurdles (51.95), set at the 1991 NCAA Outdoor Championships. He also ranks eighth at 400 meters (48.36).
 
Vallin earned NAIA All-Americans honors in the 400 hurdles by finishing sixth in 1989. He then became UNK's first-ever male D2 outdoor All-American as he finished third in the 400 hurdles in 1991.
 
In the classroom, he was named a 1989 NAIA Scholar Athlete. Earning an Airway Science Management degree, Vallin was the Colorado Aeronautics Director for 20 years. He now is Principal Owner of Jviation, an airport engineering firm in Denver.
 
Vallin and his wife, Deb, live in Watkins, Colorado. Son, Tyler, plays football at Colorado Mesa with daughter Kayla being a former basketball player at Kansas Wesleyan.
 
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