Bio

A Chapman icon beyond his football playing days, Irvin "Ernie" Chapman did not experience a high level of success with the Panther leatherheads in the early 1930s. However, the son of the university's namesake was instrumental in the resurrection of Panther Football prior to the 1994 season.

Chapman played for legendary coach Ralph Welch and was a three-year letter winner for the Panthers from 1930-32 - the last varsity football team the school would field for 62 years. During those three seasons the Panthers didn't win a game, going 0-17-3. So it was particularly satisfying for Chapman - watching from the sidelines after taking part in the ceremonial coin toss - when the Panthers won their first game of the 1994 NCAA season.

*Passed away: August 2002