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HOF_Russell Soper

Russell Soper

  • Class
    1923
  • Induction
    1972
  • Sport(s)
    Football
Russell Soper (1921-23) was an outstanding offensive lineman for South Dakota football. Soper gained the distinction of captaining USD's first NCC team in 1922. A guard and tackle during his three-year Coyote career, Soper also earned all-state honors in 1920 and 1921.

Born in Dell Rapids, South Dakota, Soper lettered four-years at Sioux City (Iowa) Central High School, graduating in 1919, before attending USD. He served both World War I and World War II, being discharged as a lieutenant colonel after the second war. Soper served as general manager of Rob-Ross Foods Co. of Sioux City for 11 years before becoming president in 1957. He retired in 1964. 

Photo is from the USD Athletics Archives. 
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