On September 26, 1889, Martin Sampson, who would later score the first touchdown in school history,[1] led a meeting regarding the organization of an S.U.I.
[2] The Hawkeyes were no strangers to the Pioneers, as the two schools had met on the baseball diamond in the 20 years before.
[2] Preparations were difficult at Iowa, as proper management and leadership was obviously lacking at team practices.
With the help of Frank Everest and Lou Van Giesen, two men with playing experience back east, the Pioneers were able to field a competitive team.
[1] Although a rematch was scheduled to be played on Thanksgiving, it was canceled due to inclement weather.