An Over-the-Top Talent

The 1956 classmates of Royce were all uniquely privileged to have seen him play for three years — and especially to witness his storied three wins vs. Yale.

Of interest, athletic department trainers were assigned on an annual rotating basis to Princeton’s varsity teams. As a member of the varsity hockey team, I can report that each trainer assigned to us for three years was of the opinion that Royce was an even better player than Richard Kazmaier ’52, winner of the Heisman Trophy!

In addition, it was well known that coach Charlie Caldwell 1925 called Royce, who played both defense and offense, one of the most versatile players he’d ever coached.  

Maybe just opinions, but they both speak to Royce’s over-the-top excellence as a football player.