Heidelberg Athletics Hall of Fame
Gerald Zimmerman, a 1957 graduate of Heidelberg College, was born in Dayton and was a standout football player for four years at Chaminade High School.
He came to Heidelberg and lettered four straight years, was All-Ohio Athletic Conference, captain, and was selected as Little All-American in 1954.
Zimmerman, or "Jug," as he was known, started as a freshman for the Student Princes at the linebacker spot and was an inspiration to all who played with him as he weighed only 165 pounds (soaking wet).
Lured to Heidelberg by former player and later Heidelberg coach, John Spezzaferro, Zimmerman earned conference honors as a sophomore after being the only freshman on the varsity squad at Heidelberg that numbered 45 and started at linebacker.
During his final three seasons he played linebacker on defense and guard on offense, and despite his size, was one of the most feared players by those on the other side of the line. Zimmerman played at Heidelberg during a time that the Student Princes lost only three games in four years.
While in high school at Dayton Chaminade from 1948-52 he was a four-year letterman and All-City two seasons under head coach Fuzzy Faust.
Successful in the home building and remodeling business for over 30 years, Zimmerman has also been active in coaching Little League Baseball for several years as well as in the Full Gospel Business Men's International Fellowship.
Zimmerman is especially proud of the fact that his son, Chuck, also played for Heidelberg College from 1983-86 and lettered four years.
(This profile appeared in the 1996 Hall of Fame Banquet program.)
