Jeff Hooper

All-American Defensive Back (1981-82)

From the day Jeff Hooper began to walk, it was evident that he would become a sports fanatic. He loved to run, jump, throw, catch, tackle - anything that involved physical activity. Although this was not uncommon for most young boys, Jeff took his need for sports and competition to an extreme. It was through Jeff’s success on the field, the track, or court that he was able to easily gain his father’s respect and love. Through the years, Jeff struggled to help his family maintain some normality and was anxious to leave home after graduating from high school.

Jeff’s hard-earned efforts at sports led him to a scholarship at Coffeyville Community College, following his brother Kevin’s footsteps (recently inducted with his team into the Hall of Fame). His 18 months in Coffeyville was a time that began lifelong friendships, never-forgotten hardships, and important lessons learned.

He often tells stories of the town’s residents opening their homes to him and his teammates. Dick Foster was an inspiration and was no doubt a role model for Jeff. After Coffeyville, Jeff was offered a scholarship to the University of Missouri at Columbia.  As their starting defensive back, he played a huge role in two successful seasons, including the honor of playing in the Holiday Bowl in 1983.  After graduation, deciding not to accept an invitation to the NFL, he moved home to take care of his ailing mother. Unfortunately, Jeff lost his mom at a young age and misses her dearly to this day.

Even though his degree was in recreational therapy, Jeff has found his career in just about every other field but that.  Jeff was in his mid-20’s, struggling with becoming a responsible adult, when a life-altering event happened.  After an evening out with his girlfriend, they drove up to an accident on the interstate. Jeff jumped out of his car, ran to the car blazing with fire, and pulled the passengers out to safety just seconds before the car exploded.  Weeks later, he was awarded an Honorable Citizen by the city and highway patrol. Shortly after, he became a paramedic.

After a few years working as a paramedic saving lives, Jeff married and became a father. It was then he decided to hang up his “HERO” hat and “settle down”.  After working as a tree specialist for a couple of years, he became SM Trees’ #1 salesperson. He thrived in that position for a few years as he was building his family’s dream home in Lake Lotawana, Missouri.  During that time, he met some amazing folks, accepted offers to do work for them, and before long, his contractor handyman business began.

Today, although not married anymore, he still has a friendship with his ex-wife. His daughter Michala is a lovely 12-year old, who is ALL girl! She loves to dress up and is on her way to super stardom.