Lot # 1831: 1961 Mike Ditka Rookie Year Signed IJHS Program - JSA

Head back to a key point in Mike Ditka's career, with the examination of this multi-signed banquet program. Dated February 1, 1961, this vintage program was issued at the Indiana Joint High School All Sports Banquet, held at the Rustic Lodge of Indiana, PA. in honor of 1960 World Series hero Bill Mazeroski and Pennsylvania state wrestling champion Jim Nance, who went on to join Hall of Famer Ditka in the NFL. Ditka is listed in this program as an honored guest, with the billing "All-American End University of Pittsburgh". After completing his senior season of play at Pitt, Ditka had just been drafted as the #5 pick overall, by the Chicago Bears in late-December of 1960. The only signature located on the back cover of the offered program, Ditka's distinct autograph was provided at the pivotal time he was transitioning from the college game to the NFL. Seen on the front cover are the signatures of (3) other guests, with Naval Academy assistant coach Phil Monahan, Penn State quarterback Dick Hoak, and West Virgina assistant coach Chick Donaldson. JSA verification indicates this program was also signed by Don Hoak, whose signature has been removed from the cover via a cutout at left.

JSA COA/sticker.