Football (1956-58)

Ferdinand John Burket was born on January 9, 1933 in San Antonio, Texas. He was an outstanding athlete at Saint Gerard Regional High School where he participated in football, baseball, and basketball.

He was a quarterback on the All-State Catholic squad in 1951 and accepted a football scholarship to the University of Texas. An injured his freshman year seemed to have ended his career and he joined the army.

When Melvin Brown was named Savage head football coach in 1956, John Weder became his assistant coach. Weder immediately recruited Burket, a long time friend from South Texas.

From 1956 through 1958 Ferdie established himself as an outstanding back in the Oklahoma Collegiate Conference. Standing 6’2’’ and weighing more than 210 pounds, he was big and strong. He was a tough runner who could hit the holes quickly and break the long one. He was an exceptional athlete.

Ferdie was equally skilled in punting the ball. He led the NAIA in punting his senior year with a 46 yard average.

Burket was drafted by the World Champion Baltimore Colts. He was the last back cut by the Colts that year, and he immediately accepted a contract to play for the Saskatchewan Roughriders of the Canadian Football League. During his four years with the team, he established several team records, including most touchdowns in one game (5). He also had an 83 yard punt. He played his last two years for the Montreal Alouettes where he recorded an 87 yard punt.

Ferdie Burket was an exceptional football player. His accomplishments on the field are a source of pride to his university. Southeastern Oklahoma State University honored Ferdie Burket with membership in the Athletic Hall of Fame on February 2, 1985.