Tom Moe, a legendary figure in Minnesota sports, passed away at the age of 87. Moe, who hailed from Edina, left an indelible mark on the University of Minnesota, both as a standout athlete and as an influential athletic director.
Mark Coyle, the current Gophers athletic director, expressed heartfelt condolences: “Tom was a remarkable individual who was deeply committed to the University and Gopher Athletics. From being the football team’s MVP and a baseball national champion to leading as athletic director, his contributions were immense.
He also had the joy of seeing his children and grandchildren compete for Minnesota. The Moe family’s legacy is unparalleled, and they are in our thoughts.”
Moe's athletic journey began at Edina High School and flourished at the University of Minnesota, where he excelled in both football and baseball. As a three-year letterwinner in each sport, Moe led the football team in receiving yards in 1958 and earned MVP honors in 1959. His prowess on the baseball diamond was equally impressive, boasting a career batting average of .330 and playing a pivotal role in the Gophers’ 1960 College World Series championship victory.
After graduating in 1960 with a degree in economics, Moe pursued law at the University of Minnesota, completing his degree in 1963. He then joined the prestigious Dorsey & Whitney law firm, where he became a partner in 1968 and later served as chairman of the Policy Committee and managing partner. Under his guidance, the firm expanded significantly, becoming one of the nation's largest.
Moe's leadership extended to the University of Minnesota’s athletic department, where he was appointed interim director in December 1999 and later took on the role permanently in 2000. He played a crucial role in merging the men’s and women’s athletic departments, a move he believed would greatly benefit the programs.
Reflecting on the merger, Moe once noted, “It was something I felt strongly about, and I believe it will serve our men’s and women’s athletics programs positively in the future.”
Tom Moe’s legacy is one of dedication, leadership, and a deep love for Minnesota sports, leaving a lasting impact that will be remembered for generations.