EVANSTON, Ill. — The No. 1 jersey in the Northwestern football program is used to recognize the student-athlete who truly embodies the values and character of the Northwestern football family. Dan and Susan Jones Family Head Football Coach Pat Fitzgerald presented senior defensive tackle/fullback Joe Spivak with the famed No. 1 jersey to wear during the upcoming campaign.
The tradition of the No. 1 jersey began in 2011 when Fitzgerald bestowed the honor upon defensive lineman and special teams standout Bo Cisek. Spivak joins an illustrious line of 'Cats to wear No. 1 including, Cisek, Tim Hanrahan, Max Chapman, Anthony Walker, Jr., Tyler Lancaster, Chad Hanaoka, Joe Bergin and Jesse Brown.
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Spivak has appeared in 37 games during his career, including eight starts during the 2020 season. The Darien, Illinois, native had a career-best 14 tackles last season, while also playing on the offensive side of the ball as a fullback. Spivak is extremely active off the field, earning a spot on the 2020 Uplifting Athletes Rare Disease Champion Team for his work in raising funds and awareness for the Northwestern Uplifting Athletes chapter. This summer Spivak was named a nominee for the AFCA Goodworks Team and the Wuerffel Trophy (most impactful leaders in community service) watch list.
ÂThe tradition continues. #GoCats
— Northwestern Football (@NUFBFamily) August 5, 2021
No. 1?? ?? @JoeSpivak pic.twitter.com/QZkmREtHaG
The tradition of the No. 1 jersey began in 2011 when Fitzgerald bestowed the honor upon defensive lineman and special teams standout Bo Cisek. Spivak joins an illustrious line of 'Cats to wear No. 1 including, Cisek, Tim Hanrahan, Max Chapman, Anthony Walker, Jr., Tyler Lancaster, Chad Hanaoka, Joe Bergin and Jesse Brown.
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Spivak has appeared in 37 games during his career, including eight starts during the 2020 season. The Darien, Illinois, native had a career-best 14 tackles last season, while also playing on the offensive side of the ball as a fullback. Spivak is extremely active off the field, earning a spot on the 2020 Uplifting Athletes Rare Disease Champion Team for his work in raising funds and awareness for the Northwestern Uplifting Athletes chapter. This summer Spivak was named a nominee for the AFCA Goodworks Team and the Wuerffel Trophy (most impactful leaders in community service) watch list.