Hall of Fame
David Claire Primrose made his mark at Macalester for 28 years - as a coach, an athletic administrator and a pioneer in collegiate track and field.
Affectionately known by his peers as "Prim," Mr. Primrose joined Macalester in 1926 and served the College until his death in 1954. He coached track, swimming, and hockey and was an assistant football coach. He also served Macalester as associate professor of physical education, director of physical education for men and director of athletics.
His coaching career included a number of major achievements. Under his leadership, Macalester's swimming and hockey teams earned seven MIAC titles. Mr. Primrose's track teams won 12 MIAC titles and on 12 other occasions earned a runner-up position in the conference. The coach's leadership and success were responsible for raising track and field to the status of a major sport in the MIAC.
A 1911 graduate of Bellevue College, Mr. Primrose's college athletic achievements centered on track and football. He was named the best all-around track athlete in Nebraska and was twice selected to the All-Nebraska football team. His track abilities earned him an invitation to the 1912 Olympic finals. He later earned a bachelor's degree in physical education from George Williams College.
Active in the community, Mr. Primrose was, for many years, an elder in the House of Hope Presbyterian Church, Saint Paul, and a member of the committee for management of the Midway YMCA.
