Football (1965-68)

David “Ish” Kaniatobe, a native of Idabel, Oklahoma, made his mark in college athletics as quarterback of the Savage football team in the late 1960’s.

Kaniatobe was born on October 23, 1947 in Idabel. He attended Idabel schools and had an outstanding high school athletic career in basketball and football. He was an alternate All-State selection in both sports and was selected as a quarterback on the Daily Oklahoman’s All-Decade team of the 1960’s. American Legion baseball offered him an opportunity to also develop outstanding baseball skills.

Ish was recruited to Southeastern by Coach Bob Thomas who immediately installed his new freshman as the starting quarterback, a position he held every year throughout his collegiate career. He also played on the Savage baseball and basketball teams.

The football team struggled in Ish’s freshman year, but the young quarterback and his team matured with each game. By early in his sophomore season, the Savages had become a very competitive team in the Oklahoma Collegiate Conference. The 1967 season was one Southeastern fans will not forget as the Savages and their junior quarterback defeated East Central University in the season’s final game before a packed stadium on Paul Laird Field. This victory resulted in a shared conference championship.

Ish’s senior year was remarkable as he rushed for 457 yards and passed for 1,556 yards, giving him 2,013 total yards, a new Savage record. During his Southeastern career, he accounted for 5,054 yards and 51 touchdowns.

He was recognized for his football accomplishments by being twice names to the Oklahoma Collegiate Conference All-Conference Team. He was also an Honorable Mention NAIA All-American.

Ish Kaniatobe earned a special place in the storied history of Southeastern athletics. His success in intercollegiate football brought recognition to Southeastern, and the university honored him with the membership in the Southeastern Athletic Hall of Fame on February 7, 1998.