Hall of Fame Inductee - Eric Bush

If there was ever a prototypical high school football hero, his name would be Eric Bush. This three sport athlete made football recruiters from around the country sit up and take notice during the mid-1980's. And for good reason. After accounting for over 2,000 yards and 26 touchdowns while guiding his team to a 7-2 record and a spot in the Illinois State playoffs, Bush won virtually every award possible. In addition to being chosen as the team's Most Valuable Player, and the Herald-Whig Player of the Year, Bush was selected as best in the state by the Champaign News Gazette. But it didn't stop there. Bush was designated as one of the top 100 players by the Sporting News he was named to the Bally and Adidas All American High School Football teams, and was chosen as the starting quarterback in the thirteenth annual Shrine All-Star football game. After being recruited by more than 50 schools nationwide Bush chose the University of Michigan where he played both football and baseball. But there were others interested in Eric Bush. He was chosen as the 54th pick in the baseball draft by the defending champion New York Mets. And why not? As a senior for Quincy High, Bush batted .518 with 11 home runs and 55 runs batted in. And he was successful on 24 of 25 steal attempts. But Bush turned down a lucrative signing bonus from the Mets to play football for Bo Schembechler. Unfortunately injuries cut Bush's career short. He was moved to cornerback and special teams as a sophomore after an injury to his throwing hand. Another injury his junior year ended his playing days. In all Bush earned a total of three varsity letters and played in two Rose Bowls while at the University of Michigan. He now resides in Minneapolis, Minnesota.