Victor "Vic" Janowicz (March 21, 1929 – March 8, 1996) was an American athlete best known for his achievements in collegiate football, where he won the Heisman Trophy in 1950 as a halfback for the Ohio State Buckeyes. He also played professional baseball in the minor leagues and later served as a football coach and athletics administrator.
Early life and education
Vic Janowicz was born in Whiting, Indiana, to Polish‑American parents. He attended Whiting High School, where he excelled in football, baseball, and track. After graduating, Janowicz enrolled at Ohio State University in 1947, playing for the Buckeyes football team under head coach Wes Fesler.
College football career
Janowicz played halfback for Ohio State from 1947 to 1950. He was a versatile player, contributing as a runner, passer, punt and kickoff returner, and kicker. In the 1950 season, he led the Buckeyes to an unbeaten 10‑0 record, including a 14‑0 victory over the University of Southern California in the Rose Bowl. His performance earned him the Heisman Trophy, the Maxwell Award, and the Chicago Tribune Silver Football as the Big Ten’s most valuable player. He also received All‑American honors and finished seventh in the Heisman voting as a junior in 1949.
Professional baseball career
Rather than pursuing a career in the National Football League, Janowicz signed a contract with the Cleveland Indians organization in 1951, playing as an outfielder in their minor‑league system. He spent three seasons (1951‑1953) with the Cleveland farm clubs, compiling a modest batting record before retiring from professional baseball.
Coaching and later career
After his playing days, Janowicz returned to Ohio State as an assistant football coach in 1954, focusing on backfield instruction. He later worked in athletic administration, serving as director of facilities at the University of Arkansas and in various roles at private enterprises involved in sports equipment and marketing.
Personal life and death
Janowicz married Patricia L. Doyle in 1952; the couple had three children. He remained active in community and alumni events, often speaking about his 1950 Heisman win. Vic Janowicz died of a heart attack on March 8, 1996, in Hilton Head Island, South Carolina, at the age of 66.
Legacy
Janowicz was inducted into the College Football Hall of Fame in 1979 and the Ohio State Athletics Hall of Fame in 1975. His Heisman Trophy is displayed at the Ohio State University, and he is remembered for his multi‑sport athleticism and contributions to Ohio State football history.