Hall of Fame
Position: Center
Years: 1948-1950
Place of Birth: Des Moines, IA
Date of Birth: Aug 15, 1929
Place of Death: Sarasota, FL
Date of Death: Feb 29, 2008
Jersey Number: 50
Height: 6-3
Weight: 215
High School: Des Moines, IA (Dowling HS)
Jerry Groom had an exciting three years as a varsity performer at Notre Dame. As a sophomore in 1948, "Boomer" was second-string center behind Bill Walsh. In 1949 he played on the defensive platoon at linebacker. In a 27-20 victory over Southern Methodist that clinched a national championship for Notre Dame, Groom intercepted two passes and blocked a kick. As a senior in 1950 Groom was Notre Dame captain and played both ways, averaging 55 minutes a game. He made All-America. He was named Lineman of the Week by United Press following the Pittsburgh game. Frank Leahy, the Notre Dame coach, said, "Jerry is a true leader, he keeps the players' spirits up at all times." He was captain of the East team in the Shrine East-West game and co-captain (with Bud McFadin of Texas) in the college all-star game. As a college star Groom stood 6-3 and weighed 215. He played pro with the Chicago Cardinals 1951-55.
