Former SFA Football and Track & Field Great Passes Away

James Nixon's 1961 discus record still stands as the best mark in SFA history

Former SFA Great James Nixon (No. 32) Passed Away Jan. 8, 2007.

Jan. 23, 2007

HOUSTON, Texas - Former Stephen F. Austin Lumberjack football and track and field standout James Nixon passed away Monday, Jan. 8, 2007, after a bout with cancer. A multi-sport athlete during his time in Nacogdoches, Nixon recorded a throw of 173-11 in the discus during the 1961 season, a mark that still stands as the school's all-time record. The mark is also the program's longest standing record.

At 6-6, Nixon competed in several events for 'Jacks' track and field team. Along with the shot put and discus, he recorded a personal best of 6-6.00 in the high jump and recorded a long jump of more than 22 feet. He also played several positions on the gridiron, but he was primarily utilized as a running back by the SFA coaching staff.

Along with his school record in the discus, Nixon also set the SFA record in the shot put, which stood for 12 seasons. Current Lumberjack Kenneth McKinley set the new record in the event last season, but he is only the second Lumberjack since the 1961 season to improve upon the mark.

Following his graduation, Nixon went on to enjoy a short career in professional football. Nixon spent time with the NFL's Oakland Raiders and Houston Oilers, and the Montreal Allouettes of the Canadian Football League. Following his football career, Nixon went into business working for the Olivetti Corporation and RCA.

-SFA-

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