old college try

== English == === Etymology === From the ambitiousness of college athletes. Earliest known use from 1914. Said to have been coined by John McGraw, manager of the New York Giants from 1902–1932 (see citation from 1917). === Noun === old college try (plural old college tries) (informal) A vigorous, committed attempt or effort, often in the context of a nearly hopeless situation where failure is expected. 1980, T. E. Kalem, "Happy Hangover" (theatre review of Fifth of July), Time, 17 Nov.: Reeve gives his role the old college try—fervent amateurism. ==== Usage notes ==== Often used in the expression give it the old college try. ==== See also ==== give it one's best shot