From St. Joseph, Missouri, Anton “A.J.” Stankowski was a fierce competitor despite his small 5-foot-6, 132-lb. frame. He was called “The General” for his heads-up play at quarterback and lettered for Missouri in 1915, ‘16 and ‘19. He was an all-Missouri Valley Conference choice in 1916 and was captain of the 1919 team that won the MVC championship. Stankowski served in World War I from 1916-18. He coached at St. Joseph Central High School from 1921-26, then returned to Mizzou. From 1926-36, he was the freshman coach for football, basketball and baseball, and spent two years as varsity baseball coach. He also served the University as intramural director for 39 years. MU’s student recreation fields are named in his honor.
