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The University of Mississippi Athletics
Ole Miss to Dedicate Walk of Champions Arch on Saturday
6/21/1999 | Football
September 9, 1998
OXFORD, Miss. - 1962 ... The year stands as a benchmark of change in the life of The University of Mississippi.
And legendary Rebel Head Coach John Vaught and his football team seemed destined to provide a rallying point for the University community. Not only did they put together the only perfect season in the history of Ole Miss football, but they also captured the Litkenhous Ratings national title and their fifth Southeastern Conference championship.
Those associated with the 1962 team donated funds for a "Walk of Champions" arch which will be dedicated at noon Saturday, Sept. 12, at the entrance to the Grove near the Student Union plaza. The names of the coaches, players, trainers and managers who won the hearts of Rebel fans with their spirit and tenacity are listed on plaques.
The site of the Walk of Champions is the route of the football team's traditional "walk through the Grove" on game days. The 1962 team members present Saturday will pass through the arch first and then led the 1998 Rebels in their march across campus through faithful, cheering fans, arriving finally at the field house.
The purpose of the arch is to remind athletes in all sports that they play for national championships, SEC championships and Ole Miss pride, said Samuel W. Owen, a member of the 1962 team and a Nashville businessman, who will speak at the dedication ceremonies, along with Chancellor Robert C. Khayat and Director of Intercollegiate Athletics John Shafer.
"Joe Wilkins, Larry Leo' Johnson and I first discussed the idea of an arch last fall while we were visiting in the Grove, and we agreed to pursue it," said Owen. "We want the arch to stand as a symbol of what can be accomplished with teamwork, loyalty and trust. Our team stuck together and accomplished some unbelievable achievements under the most trying of times. If we didn't love Ole Miss, of course, we couldn't have done it."
The 1962 season consisted of victories over Memphis (21-7), Kentucky (14-0), Houston (40-7), Tulane (21-0), Vanderbilt (35-0), LSU (15-7), Chattanooga (52-7), Tennessee (19-6) and Mississippi State (13-6). The season came to a sparkling climax on New Year's Day when Ole Miss defeated Arkansas 17-13 in the Sugar Bowl. Quarterback Glynn Griffing's 257 total offensive yards set the bowl record. Serving as co-captain with Griffing was wingback Louis Guy.
Chancellor Khayat said the Walk of Champions and the team of 1962 will forever stand as symbols to present and future Ole Miss students of what can be accomplished--not only in athletics but also in life--when people come together with common goals. "These men illustrate what can happen when there is teamwork, loyalty, dedication and sacrifice," Khayat said.
"Theirs was an unforgettable season during an unforgettable time in the life of this University. We are thankful for their extraordinary example and for the Walk of Champions arch, which will enhance the student-athletes' popular walk through the Grove," said the chancellor. "The team of 1962 will always hold a very special place in our hearts and memories."
Head Football Coach Tommy Tuberville said, "This structure is an excellent addition to what has become one of college football's finest traditions. The 1962 team holds a special place in our history. It is only fitting that members of this squad have chosen to provide the University with such an important symbol that can be enjoyed for years to come."
To complement the arch, Alumni Affairs is coordinating a project to replace the sidewalk used by the football team -- across the heart of the Grove to University Avenue -- with one created from engraved red bricks. Approximately 17,000 bricks will be needed to complete the project. Ole Miss students, alumni and friends can purchase bricks for $250 each, with net proceeds earmarked for student academic and athletic scholarships, as well as far academic enrichment. Interested individuals can contact Alumni Affairs at (601) 232-7375.
