Mayville State University Athletics

Dubbed “The most prodigious running back to ever wear a Comet uniform,” James Lewis tore up the football field. A Comet running back from 1970-73, he was a four-year letter winner, the rushing leader three times, all-conference twice; all-conference honorable mention once; and all-district honorable mention twice. He was co-captain for the football team in 1973. In the 1973 season, he ranked second in the NAIA for individual rushing. In 100 plays, he gained 593 yards with a carry percentage of 5.9 yards. The electrifying back is said to be the all-time Comet rusher, having averaged 25 carries a game and five yards per carry during his last three seasons. Lewis was also an outstanding track athlete, lettering each year and acting as co-captain twice. He competed in the 60-yard dash, relays, triple jump, and long jump. His long jump of 22 feet, 8 inches is the second-best in Comet track history. Lewis graduated in 1974 with a major in education and a minor in physical education. After graduation he tried out for the Green Bay Packers in the NFL, where he participated in six pre-season games as a running back and special teams player. He taught in Indianapolis, Ind., public schools and coached football, basketball, boys track, and girls basketball.  He also worked in management and supervision and was a business owner.