Peterson was a native of Springfield, Massachusetts, where he attended the High School of Commerce. He then continued on to Springfield College, where he played football and lacrosse.[1] He graduated as a member of the class of 1932.[2]
Coaching career
Peterson began his coaching career as an assistant football coach at the Springfield Trade School.[2] In 1933, American International College president Chester McGown hired Peterson as the school's first athletic director. Peterson established the American International basketball program in 1933, and its football, baseball, and soccer programs in 1934.[1][3] On October 13, 1939, Peterson coached American International to perhaps its greatest victory, a 7–6 upset of heavy favorites Saint Anselm at Pynchon Park. Trailing 6–0 with 1:30 remaining, American International elected to punt, but the kicker dropped the wet ball, and was forced to run. A block gave him an opening and he ran 60 yards for a touchdown. Future American International coach Henry Butova kicked the extra point to seal the victory.[3] Peterson served as both the head football and basketball coach at American International.[4] From 1934 to 1940, his football teams compiled a 16–27–2 record.[5] As the basketball coach from 1933 to 1941, he compiled a 45–59 record.[6]