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Bernie Shively

Guard

Inducted 1982

Date of Birth

5/26/1902

Birthplace

Oliver, IL

School

University of Illinois (1924-1926)

Bio

When football talk turns to Illinois, it is natural to think of Red Grange. But all too often, we overlook the linemen whose essential blocks, enable ball carriers to break into the open. Bernie Shively was one of those linemen to lead Red Grange on his way to spectacular scores. Shively was an agile, athletic guard who was quick and powerful. Bernie Shively played varsity football three years at Illinois, two with Grange and one afterward. That year, 1926, Bernie won consensus All-America honors. This recognition of Shively's skills says, "doing an outstanding job on offense and defense." Bernie joined the University of Kentucky staff as assistant football coach. In 1938, he became Kentucky's director of athletics, a post he held until his death on December 10, 1967.