Vassallo: Keeping Up With Kessinger

Don Kessinger was the quarterback of Forrest City High School Mustangs in Arkansas where he was an All-State and All-American athlete.

Donald Eulon “Donnie” Kessinger is one of the most famous Ole Miss athletes of all time.

The two sport All American could have played either basketball or baseball, but chose the latter in becoming one of the greatest Chicago Cubs in the franchise’s history.

Known for his superb defensive skills, Donnie ended his 16 year career with 527 Rbi’s and was named number 67 of the 100 Greatest Cubs. His pro career also included time with the Cardinals and White Sox.

Donnie hails from Forrest City, Arkansas and he chose Ole Miss over other possibilities primarily because of baseball potential and the proximity to home was not that distant.

An all SEC player from 1962-64 Donnie perfected his skills in Oxford which would ultimately take him to six All-Star seasons in the major leagues. A switch hitter with a great glove this outstanding Rebel will never be forgotten, especially during each and every baseball season!

Steve Vassallo is a HottyToddy.com contributor. Steve writes on Ole Miss athletics, Oxford business, politics and other subjects. He is an Ole Miss grad and former radio announcer for the basketball team. In addition, he is a certified economic and community developer and currently, a highly successful leader in the real estate business with Premier Properties of Oxford.You can contact Steve at sovassallo@gmail.com or call him at (985) 852-7745.