Boiler bits

Everybody knows Purdue was the college home of Milwaukee Bucks star Glenn Robinson. But did you know legendary coach John Wooden was an All-American basketball player for the Boilermakers? Here's some other fun facts about Purdue:

CRADLE OF ASTRONAUTS:

That's one small step for man, one giant leap for the Boilermakers. Before you become a spaceman, the best college choice appears to be Purdue. A list of 22 astronauts attended the school, including the first (Neil Armstrong) and last (Eugene Cernan) to walk on the moon. Other ex-Boilers include the late Gus Grissom and Roger Chaffee.

FUTURE PROS:

Sure, Purdue has a reputation for producing pro quarterbacks. But that isn't the only position where Boilermakers have excelled. Cornerback Rod Woodson is a future Hall of Famer and was named to the National Football League's all-time team in 1994. Defensive back Chris Dishman moved this season from the Houston Oilers to Washington. Fullback Mike Alstott is a force with the rejuvenated Tampa Bay Bucs. Tennessee's Mel Gray holds the NFL record for most kickoff return yards and combined return yards.

SPREADING IT OUT:

Purdue's roster includes players from 18 states. The Boilermakers pick up recruits from traditional hotspots Texas, California, Florida and Ohio. But they also have players from Kansas, Nebraska, Virginia and North Carolina.

THE GATEWAY TO EVERYWHERE:

West Lafayette, Ind., is within five hours of several major cities, including Chicago, Indianapolis, Detroit, St. Louis, Milwaukee, Cincinnati and Cleveland. The city has its own points of pride. In 1994, it was among Money's magazine's top 10 cities. Greater Lafayette has a low unemployment rate, inexpensive hotel rooms and enough movie theaters to show the latest hits.

Categories (3):Illini Sports, Football, Sports

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