Cal Poly Humboldt Athletics

Henry “Hank” Cooper was both an outstanding athlete and student at HSU. Hank completed his master’s in 1958 and spent the next two years teaching and coaching at Ferndale High School. Hank returned to HSU as a full-time member of the physical education staff. He served as swimming coach and assistant football and basketball coach.

Phil Sarboe, former HSU football coach, described Hank as “a real 100 percenter. Not only as an athlete, but also a student, a leader and a person.” His letter of acceptance received by the Alumni Association characterizes the calibre of man he is and certainly indicates that Hank is a credit to himself, HSU, and the Alumina Association. As quoted in the 1971 Alumnus: “I am still in a state of shock and will probably remain this way for quite a while. I’ve always thought it would be a great honor to even be considered for Humboldt’s Hall of Fame, let alone be selected.”