Guido Wyland

Guido Bruce Wyland (June 5, 1891 – December 8, 1974), referred to in contemporary sources by his given name but listed in modern statistical databases as "Pudge", was an American football player and track athlete. He played professional football, principally as a guard, for the Rock Island Independents from 1917 to 1920. His initial fame came from his accomplishments as a track and field athlete, competing in diverse events, including the 100-yard dash, high and low hurdles, shot put, hammer throw, and discus.

Early life Wyland was born in 1891 in Minden, Iowa. In a dual meet against Davenport High School, he scored 41 points, including first-place finishes in the 50-yard dash, 100-yard dash, high and low hurdles, shot put, broad jump, and hammer throw.

Rock Island Independents In October 1917, Wyland joined the Rock Island Independents, one of the pioneering teams in professional football. He played for the Independents for four years from 1917 to 1920. playing for the Rock Island team that claimed the national professional football championship. Wyland started at the guard position in the game.

Family and later years Wyland married Mary Carpentier in 1911.

After his career as a football player ended, Wyland coached football and track in St. Cloud, Minnesota, and Springfield, South Dakota. He later relocated to New Jersey for 18 years, working as a chemist for DuPont. He later returned to the Quad Cities and worked as a chemist at the Rock Island Arsenal.