TTM Stats
- Sent: 7/14/2022 | Received: 7/23/2022 | 9 Days
- ’90 Pro Set, ’92 GameDay
- Address: Home (address from Sports Card Forum)
The Story of the Autograph
Mark Vlasic’s football career is a testament to perseverance, adaptability, and preparation beyond the playing field. From his early days in Pennsylvania to the NFL and his subsequent transition into the financial sector, Vlasic’s journey offers insights into the multifaceted life of a professional athlete.
Born on October 25, 1963, in Rochester, Pennsylvania, Vlasic attended Center High School in Center Township. A dual-sport athlete, he excelled in both football and basketball. As a junior quarterback, he threw for 777 yards in the first eight games, showcasing his potential on the gridiron. His basketball prowess was equally notable, with standout performances including a 36-point game against Las Vegas Western High School. These achievements earned him accolades such as conference MVP, All-WPIAL honors, and a spot in the Big 33 All-Star game. In recognition of his high school accomplishments, Vlasic was inducted into the Beaver County Sports Hall of Fame in 1999.
Vlasic accepted a scholarship to the University of Iowa, where he played under coach Hayden Fry. Spending his initial years as a backup to All-American quarterback Chuck Long, Vlasic’s patience and dedication were evident. In his senior year, he stepped into the starting role, leading the nation in passing efficiency before a shoulder injury sidelined him. Upon his return, he delivered a remarkable performance against Michigan, throwing for 200 yards and orchestrating a comeback victory. His season culminated with a standout showing in the 1986 Holiday Bowl, where he earned MVP honors after passing for 222 yards and rushing for a touchdown in a 39–38 win over San Diego State.
Selected in the fourth round of the 1987 NFL Draft by the San Diego Chargers, Vlasic began his professional career backing up veteran quarterback Dan Fouts. In 1988, he started two games, completing 25 of 52 passes for 270 yards and a touchdown. However, a knee injury curtailed his season and sidelined him for the entirety of 1989.
Returning in 1990, Vlasic earned the starting nod in the season opener but was soon replaced. Over six games that season, he completed 19 of 40 passes for 168 yards, one touchdown, and two interceptions.
In 1991, Vlasic signed with the Kansas City Chiefs as a Plan B free agent, reuniting with former Chargers head coach Al Saunders. He appeared in six games, starting one, and achieved a career-best passer rating of 100.2, completing 28 of 44 passes for 316 yards and two touchdowns.
Over his NFL career, Vlasic played in 15 games, completing 75 of 142 passes for 762 yards, four touchdowns, and five interceptions, culminating in a passer rating of 63.2.
Anticipating life after football, Vlasic, a finance major at Iowa, obtained a real estate license before his rookie NFL season. Post-retirement, he transitioned into the financial sector, leveraging his academic background and discipline from sports. He currently serves as a Senior Wealth Advisor with Mariner Wealth Advisors in Overland Park, Kansas. Vlasic’s proactive approach to career planning underscores the importance of preparation and adaptability for athletes transitioning to life beyond sports.
Mark Vlasic’s journey from a high school standout to an NFL quarterback and successful financial advisor exemplifies resilience and foresight. His story serves as an inspiration, highlighting the significance of adaptability and planning in achieving success both on and off the field.
The Score on Mark Vlasic – 7.5
Mark has a nice signature with a lot of action in it. I think it shows up well on both of these cards. But one of my favorite football sets of this era is the 1992 GameDay set with the black and white backgrounds so that’s what I will tag as the best one of this return.
Thanks Mr. Vlasic! I’m giving this return a 7.5.
>>> READ MORE ABOUT MY AUTOGRAPH SCORING SYSTEM <<<
Thanks for visiting BravestarrCards.com: Card Collecting and TTM Autographs.
Information gathered using Wikipedia and Pro Football Reference.