Dr. Thomas Kerr (1987) - Janet E. and Barry C. Burkholder Athletics Hall of Fame

Dr. Thomas Kerr

Induction:
1987

Dr. Thomas Kerr was a key figure in the Drexel Crew team reaching varsity status. He coached the Bachelors Barge Club and after two years, his team of Drexel students was granted club status for two years before becoming a varsity sport in 1959. Kerr obtained shells, oars, equipment, secured a boathouse and coached the team until 1969. From 1952 until 1969 he was also the team physician and the university surgeon as well.

Kerr rowed at Syracuse and was the freshman coach while attending medical school. He spent 39 months in the U.S. Medical Corps as a surgeon. In 1974 he received the Syracuse University Letterman of Distinction Award. Kerr rowed for the Penn Athletic Club and was National and Canadian Champion in the eight and four-man competitions. He rowed in the 1932 Olympics and finished fourth in the four. Kerr was also a referee at nine world rowing championships including the 1968 and 1972 Olympics. The Kerr Cup Regatta held on the Schuylkill each spring is named in his honor.