Thirty years after the University of Chicago discontinued intercollegiate football, the sport returned to varsity status at the NCAA Division III level in 1969.

The genesis of the return of football occurred in 1956, when Walter Hass was appointed director of athletics. A long-time college football coach, Hass initiated a football class as part of the physical education curriculum which by 1960 evolved into a club team competing against other teams in the area.

Prompted by Hass’ strident lobbying efforts as well as a student body petition, the University of Chicago elevated football to varsity status beginning with the 1969 season.

Hass, who guided the Maroons to a 2-4 record in 1969, continued coaching through 1975 and during that span continued to upgrade the schedule with quality opponents. His efforts established the foundation for Division III football at Chicago.