Long before he was elected mayor of San Francisco, Gavin Newsom won the title as “studliest jock” of Redwood’s Class of 1985, according to the Bark. Though Newsom was a star basketball and baseball player during his four years at Redwood, today he makes global headlines for both his political endeavors and scandals in his personal life.

Following his graduation from Redwood, Newsom attended Santa Clara University and majored in political science. After holding a wide variety of jobs, Newsom started the PlumpJack Group in 1992 and opened the PlumpJack Wine Shop in San Francisco. The PlumpJack company was a huge success, and now operates 16 different businesses, including cafes, resorts, and apparel stores.

Newsom launched his political career with the help of former mayor Willie Brown. Brown appointed Newsom to the Parking and Traffic Commission in 1996, and subsequently to the Board of Supervisors.

Since being elected mayor in 2003, Newsom has won public support for his “Care Not Cash” plan to combat homelessness, his work on the Muni system, and, of course, his issuing of same-sex marriage licenses in 2004.

Newsom is predicted to be a candidate for the 2010 gubernatorial election, and possibly a future presidential race. Whether or not Newsom goes on to a higher office, he’s sure to always be remembered as Redwood’s star pitcher.