Jim Grabowski, Class of June 1962

After graduating from Taft Jim enrolled at the University of Illinois where he continued playing fullback for the University of Illinois football team. He played in the 1964 Rose Bowl and was given the Most Valuable player award. He was twice named All American and twice named Academic All American. In 1965 Jim was named Big 10 Player of the Year and Sporting News Player of the Year.

In 1966 Jim graduated from University of Illinois and became the No. 1 draft choice for the Green Bay Packers. Jim played in Super Bowls I and II. He stayed with the Packers until 1971 when he became a Chicago Bear.  He remained with the Bears for the 1971 and 1972 seasons.

For 15 years, Jim Grabowski was seen and heard on television and radio broadcasts announcing University of Illinois and other Big 10 Conference games. He is presently the President of Motivation Merchandise Corp., a sales promotion company.

Jim married 1962 Taft alumna and cheerleader Kathy Meyer.