"After transferring from the University of Colorado, Rod Poppe became an impact player on Valparaiso University's 1953 and 1954 football teams.

A halfback, Poppe averaged 6.8 yards per carry. In 1954, he was voted team captain and earned team MVP and all-conference honors. He also was a two-year letterwinner in baseball.

Poppe's greatest recognition in sports came from his 37 years as teacher, football, basketball and baseball coach, athletics director and school administrator at his former high school in Marengo, Ill. He was the head football coach for 23 years and compiled a record of 144-54-4, which included a 45-game winning streak. Retired since June of 1994, Poppe was honored by having the Marengo High School outdoor athletic complex named "Rod Poppe Fields." An endowed scholarship in his name assists McHenry (Ill.) County students who attend VU.