Eric Gustafson
High School Honors
2 football letters: 1st Team All-PIL offensive tackle and All-State Honorable Mention as a senior. Won team “Outstanding Defensive Player Award” and Hal York MVP Award as a senior. Team Captain.
2 track & field letters. PIL shot put champion with meet record 50’ 9” as a senior.
Post-High School Career
Played football at Oregon Institute of Technology, 1981-85. B.S. degree in Diesel Power Technology.
All-Evergreen Conference 2nd Team as a junior and NAIA All-American Honorable Mention as a senior.
U.S. Coast Guard, 1986-2006, and recipient of numerous medals, awards and commendation, retiring as a Commander in 2006.
Played on USCG National Rugby Team, 1988. Currently a DOD Civilian Senior Leader for the U.S. Navy with over 36 years of government service.
Commentary
I am deeply humbled and honored to be inducted into the Portland Interscholastic League (PIL) Hall of Fame and to represent Roosevelt High School (RHS). Looking back across my life and career, the foundation of every success I have achieved traces directly back to RHS athletics and the PIL.
I was not considered a natural talent or a fast starter, but Coach Rom and Coach Weinstein saw potential in me that I didn't see in myself. Through their coaching and mentorship, they instilled essential life skills, discipline, and confidence — shaping me into a college prospect, college athlete and college graduate, achievements I never thought possible.
This journey, which began in St. Johns, Oregon, has been sustained at every step by the unwavering love and support of my family: my parents, siblings, extended family, and especially my wife and children. I wish my mom could have been here to share in this honor; she was my biggest fan. Their support carried me through a rewarding collegiate sports journey and a successful combined 40-year career in military and civilian service for our nation.
I stand firmly on the shoulders of my family, teammates, and coaches. This honor belongs to all of us. Thank you.
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