Quote:
Originally Posted by rickalaska
Eddie Collins (HOF) entered Columbia University in 1903. Although just 5 foot 9 inches, he was quarterback and captain of the school football team, and the starting shortstop on the University baseball team for three years.
I would guess this is a class team photo. I did notice, a couple players also appear to be in a 1905 varsity team photo with Collins.
Although still in school, Eddie Collins joined a semi-pro team in the summer of 1906, playing under the name "Eddie Sullivan". The practice was not unusual among college players and he probably would have gotten away with it if his playing hadn't attracted the attention of the Philadelphia Athletics. They signed him to a contract and he actually got into six games before returning to Columbia for his senior year.
Once his professional playing was discovered, Collins was declared ineligible for his senior season. He was allowed to stay on as a coach while he completed his degree.
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Eddie Collins is not shown here. I have a photo of him from the same period. He looks very similar to the Eddie Collins we know from the majors as a young adult, (as he of course should) none of these guys are even close. I'll attach the photo. I personally don't even think they are Columbia University, to me they look about 13-15 years old and none match the 1905 team photo in my eyes. Sorry to be the bearer of bad news.
