Monsky, Leroy

Leroy G. Monsky

One of the greatest lineman in the history of the University of Alabaman, Monsky was considered by Alabama coaches Frank Thomas and Hank Crisp as the "smartest and best guard we ever coached." Grantland Rice wrote, "Leroy Monsky, amazingly fast for his size and power, was outstanding on both offense and defense and was a key man in the Alabama attack which specializes in the use of the guards...led many a charge that put Alabama in front after a strenuous tussle. His fighting courage was the deciding factor in most of these games."

Birth and Death Dates:
b. April 21, 1916 - d. August 12, 1981

Career Highlights:
Voted to Alabama's All-Time Team, Monsky was one of the best linemen in the country in the mid-1930s. After an outstanding high school career where he was All-State, All-Southern and All-American in football, Leroy was as dominant in college. In 1936, he was consensus All-SEC and Alabama finished the season ranked No. 4 with a record of 8-0-1, outscoring their opponents 168-35.

In 1937, Monsky was team captain as the Crimson Tide won the SEC and finished the regular season 9-0-0, outscoring their opponents 212-33. In the Rose Bowl, No. 4 Alabama faced a tough Cal team (ranked No. 2), who defeated the Tide, 13-0. Monsky later said of the game, "I was hit in the eye during a practice session which required 13 stitches. I had to wear a special helmet to protect the injury and it affected my vision. The game was hard fought. We actually fumbled it away. No excuses, though. California had a swell ball club."

That season, Leroy was named Grantland Rice, AP, "All-American Board" first team All-America. He also won the Jacobs Award as the best blocker in the Southeastern Conference. Following the season, he played in the College All-Star Game in Chicago. In 1979, Monsky was inducted into the Alabama Sports Hall of Fame.

Origin:
Montgomery, Alabama

Career Dates:
Monsky played guard at the University of Alabama from 1935-1937.

Physical description:
5'10 1/2", 185 pounds

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