Bemidji State University

Sylvester was a three-sport athlete at BSU, lettering in football from 1957-59, wrestling from 1957-59 and baseball in 1958. He was named BSU's Outstanding Lineman in 1958 and 1959 and also earned the Top Student Athletic Award in 1958 and 1959. Sylvester later went on to win the World Marathon Canoe Championship in 1963. He coached football from 1963-84 and was named Regional Coach of the Year in 1964, 1965 and 1966.