Encyclopedia Dubuque
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Affiliated with the Local History Network of the State Historical Society of Iowa, and the Iowa Museum Association.
MERCER, Michael
MERCER, Michael. (Dubuque, IA- ). Professional athlete. The son of "Moco" and Helen MERCER, Michael graduated from DUBUQUE SENIOR HIGH SCHOOL in 1953, the year he was chosen by Iowa State University as one of five outstanding athletes in Iowa. He was granted a scholarship by the University of Minnesota.
Schooling was interrupted by service in the U.S. Marines after which Mercer graduated from Northern Arizona State in 1961. As a senior, he played in the Sun Bowl and the American Bowl. In 1960 Mercer led the nation in scoring by kicking.
In 1961 Mercer was drafted by the Minnesota Vikings where he scored the first points in AFL franchise history against the Chicago Bears. He set the AFL record for single game punting average 51.2 feet, while with the Oakland Raiders. He also had 154 consecutive extra points after touchdowns.
In 1967 with the Kansas City Chiefs Mercer kicked the first field goal in the first Super Bow1. The following summer Sports Illustrated magazine took Mercer and another kicker to England to kick against soccer players. On a muddy, poorly kept field north of Liverpool, Mercer's rating was 68% compared to 56% by the other American and 52% and 40% for the two soccer players. The Pro Bowl game, with Mercer playing on Joe Namath's team, followed in 1968 at Jacksonville, Florida.
Mercer's professional career spanned eleven years. Advertising posters for the PUNT, PASS AND KICK CONTEST first carried a sketch-drawn by Norman Rockwell-of Mike Mercer and a boy. (Photo Courtesy: Melinda Blok)