Oosterbaan, Bennie Gaylord, 1906-

Athlete and football coach at the University of Michigan.

From the description of Bennie Gaylord Oosterbaan papers, 1921-1981. (University of Michigan). WorldCat record id: 34421131

Bennie G. Oosterbaan was born in Muskegon, Mich., in 1906. He graduated from the University of Michigan where he was a three-sport varsity star: in football, basketball and baseball. As an end on the football team, Oosterbaan led the Big Ten in touchdowns in 1925 with eight and was a three-time all-American and was named to an all-time all-American team. He was an all-American in basketball in 1927 and 1928.

Oosterbaan became an assistant football coach in 1928 and head coach in 1948, when Michigan went 9-0 and was ranked No. 1. During his 11 years as coach, Michigan won three Big Ten championships and achieved a Rose Bowl victory in 1951 over California, 14-6. His teams compiled a 66-33-4 record. Oosterbaan was also head basketball coach, 1938-1946, leading Michigan to an overall record of 81-72.

In 1959, Oosterbaan became Michigan's director of athletic alumni relations and held that position until he retired in 1972. He died October 25, 1990.

From the guide to the Bennie Gaylord Oosterbaan papers, 1902-1981, (Bentley Historical Library, University of Michigan)