Hobart and William Smith Colleges Athletics

Dr. Major Wilson Gasper '23 was an outstanding four sport athlete at Hobart. A member of the football, basketball, track and lacrosse teams he earned 13 varsity letters. In 1922 he quarterbacked one of the nation's major college football upsets when the Statesmen downed NYU 20-0. That same year he was named to the New York State All-College first-team. Gasper, who was noted for his olympic class speed, was named to the nation's first All-America lacrosse team in 1923. A member of the Chimera and Druid honor societies he was a Rhodes Scholar nominee. While earning his medical degree he introduced the game of lacrosse to the University of Michigan. Later he was stationed in Europe as regimental surgeon of the 304th infantry during World War II and held rank of Lieutenant Colonel. From 1942-46 he served under General George Patton in the Third Army. He was awarded the Purple Heart and Bronze Star for heroism.