Western Carolina Athletics Hall of Fame
John Ruta - Football - (1962-65)
John Ruta, a defensive back on Western Carolina's All-20th Century Football Team, began his playing career as a quarterback in 1962 and led the Catamounts to a stunning upset of East Carolina. He was also the starting signal-caller in 1963, but moved to the defensive secondary in 1964 despite passing for over 1,000 yards as a freshman and sophomore. The Plant City, Fla., product responded with a banner season as he led the 1964 Catamounts in tackles and set then single-season records for interceptions and pass breakups, returning two picks for touchdowns. His amazing transition season was noticed throughout the nation as he was named NAIA All-America, the first defensive back in WCU history to be so honored. As captain of the 1965 team, Ruta started in both the defensive backfield and at defensive end. He led the team in three statistical categories. In addition to All-America honors, Ruta was a two-time All-Carolinas Conference selection and an NAIA District 26 All-Star.
