Adam Najarian (1997) - Hall of Fame - University of Toledo Athletics

Adam Najarian

Induction:
1997
Class:
1934

Adam Najarian earned three letters in football, starting every game on both sides of the ball from 1932-34. As a center, he was known to have never given a bad snap in his three years. On defense he was one of the most feared linebackers in the All-Ohio league. Najarian played on teams that were a combined 12-9-2. He helped the 1934 team hand All-Ohio powerhouse Muskingum College its first home loss in five years, as Toledo defeated the Fighting Muskies 9-0. Najarian played for Jim Nicholson, the university's first full-time football coach. It was Nicholson, hired while the current campus was under construction, who instituted organized recruiting at UT and with the help of players like Najarian, was able to upgrade the schedule and build a powerful and respected football program. The 1934 Rockets finished the season at 5-3, with two of their losses coming by just a touchdown. Their average margin of victory was nearly 21 points, including a 22-0 win over Bowling Green. Najarian also participated in the University of Toledo Boxing and wrestling teams during his four years at UT, although at the time no letters were given for those sports.