Linwood B. Sexton ’48 wore jersey No. 66 as a record-breaking halfback for the University of Wichita Shockers. During his four seasons at WU, he became the career rushing leader with 1,995 yards and was recognized as an All-Missouri Valley Conference halfback in 1945, 1946 and 1947, despite not being allowed to compete in all the games, because of his race.
After college, he played pro ball with the Los Angeles Dons. A charter inductee of the Shocker Sports Hall of Fame, he is also a member of the MVC Hall of Fame and the Kansas Sports Hall of Fame.
As famed as he is for his athletic prowess and honors, it was his grace under the pressure of racial discrimination that forged his most beloved status as a Shocker great. In 1946, after being banned from playing at West Texas State, his teammates autographed the game ball and brought it home to Wichita for him.
In 1977, he was honored with the WSU Alumni Achievement Award.
This former elementary school teacher, retired Hiland Dairy sales manager, and civil rights leader died March 29, 2017 in Wichita.
