COLUMBIA/SPRINGFIELD, MISSOURI - Charles "Jake" Jacobson, a 1959 graduate of Grand View College, has been inducted into the Missouri Sports Hall of Fame for his groundbreaking contributions to gymnastics..

Known as the "Father of Missouri Gymnastics," Jacobson was the first head coach of the University of Missouri gymnastics program, where he built it from the ground up and turned it into a nationally recognized powerhouse during his 20-year tenure from 1979 to 1999.

Jacobson's career record of 229-198-1 is a testament to his success, as he led Mizzou to 13 NCAA Regional appearances and the 1981 NCAA Central Regional title, advancing to the NCAA National Championships. Under his leadership, Missouri claimed the 1992 Big Eight championship, and Jacobson earned Big Eight and Big 12 Conference Coach of the Year honors in 1990 and 1999, respectively.

Before his time at Mizzou, Jacobson coached at Grand View College from 1962 to 1979, where he started a successful women's gymnastics program. His legacy now finds its rightful place in the Missouri Sports Hall of Fame, celebrating his lifelong dedication to gymnastics.

"As a proud alumnus and former coach at Grand View, Jake Jacobson's remarkable achievements in gymnastics have not only left a lasting legacy at our institution but also across collegiate sports. His induction into the Missouri Sports Hall of Fame is a well-deserved honor, recognizing his visionary leadership and passion for the sport. We congratulate Jake on this incredible milestone and are honored to celebrate his journey, which began right here at Grand View." – Troy Plummer, Grand View University Vice President for Athletics