DENVER - Former University of Denver quarterback and Pioneer Hall of Famer Sam Etcheverry passed away over the weekend at the age of 79, after losing his seven-year battle with skin cancer. Affectionately known as "The Rifle," Etcheverry served as the Pioneers' quarterback from 1949-51 and was inducted into DU's Hall of Fame in 1996 as a member of the first-ever class.

Born and raised just to the south of Colorado in Carlsbad, New Mexico, Etcheverry was DU's star quarterback during his time on the DU campus. He holds most of the Pioneer football records for passing offense, including the career leader in passing and rushing plays (594), most yards gained (2,662), most passes attempted (392), most passes completed (198) and most yards gained passing (2,510).

After his playing days, Etcheverry took his quarterbacking talents to the professional level. His first stop was the Canadian Football League, where he completed 60 percent of his passes for the Montreal Alouettes. For his career north of the border, Etcheverry passed for over 30,000 yards and 186 touchdowns.

In 1954 he was honored as the CFL's most outstanding player and was honored by the Alouettes with the retirement of his jersey number (92).

In 1962, Etcheverry signed with the St. Louis Cardinals of the National Football League. After his retirement from the NFL, he eventually returned north to coach the Montreal franchise of the United Football League.

Arrangements for his funeral are being made and will probably take place on Saturday in Carlsbad, N.M.

- PIONEERS -