Hall of Fame
Jack Burgess played football for Missouri Western from 1970-1973. Born in King City, Missouri, his parents moved to St. Joseph where he competed in multiple sports at Benton High School.
In 1970, Jack committed to play football for the hometown Griffons. His contributions played a major role in laying the foundation for the Griffon football program. As a defensive back, Jack held all of the interception records through the mid 90’s. He set a single game record with 3 interceptions that is now shared by three former Griffons. He set the record for interceptions in a single season with 8 that stood for 23 years, until 1995, when Mitch Mason tied the record. In 2003 All-American Pierre Thomas broke the single season mark with 14. Jack’s 13 interceptions in a career, a record which stood for 23 years, was also broken in 1996 by Mitch Mason (16). Jack set these records in a three year career.
Jack graduated in 1973 with a Bachelor of Science degree in Education. Upon graduation he took a job with North Nodaway School District to teach Physical Education and coach football, girl’s basketball and boy’s and girl’s track. In 1974 he took a similar position with East Buchanan C-I and in 1976 accepted a position in the St. Joseph School District. From 1976-2003 Jack has coached football, wrestling, girl’s basketball, boy’s basketball and boy’s tennis.
Currently, Jack is semi-retired, coaching football at Lafayette High School, girl’s basketball at King City R-I and teaching two days a week at Avenue City. For the past 15 years he has been teaching Drivers Education for the Department of Continuing Education at Missouri Western State College.
Jack and his wife, Molly, have three children, Whitney, Katie, and Tyler.
