Iowa State’s Jack Trice Stadium remains only major college football stadium named for a Black man

George Trice is grateful that his cousin Jack Trice’s tragic story continues to be remembered, even a century after his death on the football field. However, George Trice believes there is still more to be done.

Jack Trice, Iowa State’s first Black athlete, carried a heavy burden when he made his first varsity start in 1923. In a letter written the day before the game, he expressed that the honor of his race, family, and himself was at stake.

During that game, Trice was trampled and tragically died two days later. Despite his passing, his memory lives on. In 1988, Iowa State named their field after Jack Trice, making it the first major college stadium to be named after a Black individual. Recently, the university honored Jack Trice during a game against TCU by wearing special uniforms from his era and unveiling a new sculpture titled “Breaking Barriers.”

Although George Trice appreciates the efforts made to honor his cousin, he believes the athletic department has fallen short. As the executive director of the Trice Legacy Foundation, he aims to increase minority enrollment at Iowa colleges but feels that the athletic department does not support their cause. Furthermore, the department owns the trademark for Jack Trice-related memorabilia, leaving George Trice’s family without any benefits.

Many major college stadiums are named after corporations, donors, or former coaches, while Black athletes are honored in other ways. George Trice’s hope is that Black athletes will receive the recognition they deserve as they continue to make contributions to their respective sports.

However, the lack of Black coaches in major college football complicates the issue. With only a small number of Black Division FBS coaches, the longevity required for such recognition has not been reached. George Trice understands this challenge and believes that change will likely take generations.

Despite the challenges, George Trice remains hopeful that progress will be made in the future.

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