One of the finest all-around athletes of his time, Howard Mitchell was a three-year starter in football, basketball, and baseball, before being called into military service in the winter of 1943.
Of all the venues where he exhibited his talents, the spotlight shown brightest on the baseball diamond. Constantly changing positions to strengthen a weak link in the lineup, Mitchell was equally competent in the field, on the mound, or at the plate.
Following his sophomore year in 1941, he joined the Negro National League and pitched for the New York Black Yankees.
On the gridiron, Mitchell gained the starting nod at end midway through his sophomore year, and helped lead the Terrier eleven to a pair of 5-3 campaigns. An aggressive, physical performer, Mitchell quickly developed into one of New England's finest ends, and received much consideration for All-America recognition.
The winter months found the multi-talented Mitchell on the hardwood, where he teamed with 1969 Hall of Fame inductee Charlie Thomas to provide the Terriers with New England's finest guard combination. Despite the success of this tandem, Mitchell was eventually switched to center, filling the void created when a teammate joined the military. Although physically smaller than most of his opponents, he compensated with his strength and natural ability enabled, and was generally considered among the region's finest offensive centers.
As a senior, he was elected team captain, but it remained an honor he would not be able to enjoy. Unfortunately, the army made another visit to the Terrier hoop team, and this time it was Mitchell who departed early.
