Born March 13, 1938, in Winchester, Massachusetts, he was the swift Navy halfback from 1958 to 1960. Joe Bellino arrived into this world. Joe was an exceptional talent for the Midshipmen and received multiple prestigious awards.
Navy Athletic
College HOF | Joe Bellino, Navy Athletic
The 1922 Rose Bowl
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College Hall of Fame
Dive into the gridiron greats with this collection of articles exploring the lives and legacies of American college football Hall of Fame players. Each piece delves into the on-field heroics that secured their place in history, from jaw-dropping touchdowns to strategic brilliance. But these articles go beyond the stats, uncovering the personal stories that shaped these legends. You'll discover their journeys from high school prospects to national stars, the challenges they overcame, and the impact they left on the game they loved. Whether you're a die-hard fan or simply appreciate sporting excellence, this collection offers a captivating look at the men who forever changed the landscape of college football.
The College Football Hall of Fame is a hall of fame and interactive attraction devoted to college football. The National Football Foundation members select historic players, coaches, and contributors who rose above their peers in collegiate gridiron history to their College Football Hall of Fame. We are happy to help this legendary museum celebrate the stars and innivators of the gridiron with these individual tributes.
Navy Athletic's Joe Bellino Tribute Video
Joseph John Bellino was born in Winchester, Massachusetts on March 13, 1938. His journey from a small-town athlete to a Heisman Trophy winner and NFL player is a testament to his exceptional talent and unwavering dedication.
A YouTube video filled with highlights of Navy Midshipmen Heisman Award-winning halfback Joe Bellino.
-College Career
Bellino's collegiate football career at the United States Naval Academy was spectacular. As a halfback, he became a key player in the Midshipmen's offense, showcasing his speed, power, and versatility. His performance during the 1960 season, in particular, solidified his place in college football history. He was a dynamic offensive weapon, excelling as a runner, receiver, and return specialist. His leadership and on-field prowess were instrumental in the team's success.
In 1958 he scored the Midshipmen's only TD in a 22-6 loss to rival Army, only to come back the next season and pop off 115 yards and three scored to lead Navy over the Cadets per the story on the National Football Foundations website.
Bellino followed that performance in 1960, where he rallied the Middies to a 17-12 win over the Army and then inspired the Naval Academy to a 14-7 victory over an always-tough Notre Dame team. According to the NFF's bio, Joe's Collegiate football highwater mark was a four-touchdown performance against Virginia in 1960, or his diving catches in the Orange Bowl against Mizzou for a score.
-Road to the Pro Game
Bellino's outstanding college career culminated in winning the 1960 Heisman Trophy, the most prestigious individual award in college football. This accomplishment significantly boosted his profile and made him a highly sought-after prospect in the professional ranks. Despite his commitment to the Navy, he was drafted by the Washington Redskins in the 17th round of the 1961 NFL Draft. He then served his required time in the Navy, and joined the Boston Patriots in 1965. His military commitment limited his professional football career, but his impact was still felt.
After the last game Joe played, the Navy retired his beloved number 27 from being used in the future. Bellino was rewarded for his talented performances by winning the Maxwell Award and the Heisman Trophy! The NFF voters wanted Joe Bellino to enter the College Football Hall of Fame in 1977. After he was done in Annapolis, he served his four-year obligation to the Naval Branch and then played for the Boston Patriots in the AFL for three years.
-Football Legacy
Joe Bellino's legacy extends beyond his professional football career. He is primarily remembered for his remarkable achievements at the Naval Academy. His Heisman Trophy win remains a symbol of excellence and dedication. His service to his country and his athletic accomplishments make him a true American hero. He embodied the values of discipline, leadership, and perseverance. While his NFL career was brief, his impact on college football is indelible.
-Accolades, Awards, and Career Stats
-1960 Heisman Trophy Winner: This is his most prominent achievement, recognizing him as the best college football player in the nation.
-Maxwell Award (1960): Awarded to the nation's most outstanding college football player.
-Walter Camp Memorial Trophy (1960): Another prestigious award for the top college football player.
-Navy Midshipmen Hall of Fame: Inducted for his exceptional contributions to Navy athletics.
-NFL: He played for the Boston Patriots from 1965-1967 primarily as a running back and kick returner.
-His NFL career was cut short due to his prior military obligations.
-His college stats are what he is primarily known for.
A YouTube video filled with highlights of Navy Midshipmen Heisman Award-winning halfback Joe Bellino.
-College Career
Bellino's collegiate football career at the United States Naval Academy was spectacular. As a halfback, he became a key player in the Midshipmen's offense, showcasing his speed, power, and versatility. His performance during the 1960 season, in particular, solidified his place in college football history. He was a dynamic offensive weapon, excelling as a runner, receiver, and return specialist. His leadership and on-field prowess were instrumental in the team's success.
In 1958 he scored the Midshipmen's only TD in a 22-6 loss to rival Army, only to come back the next season and pop off 115 yards and three scored to lead Navy over the Cadets per the story on the National Football Foundations website.
Bellino followed that performance in 1960, where he rallied the Middies to a 17-12 win over the Army and then inspired the Naval Academy to a 14-7 victory over an always-tough Notre Dame team. According to the NFF's bio, Joe's Collegiate football highwater mark was a four-touchdown performance against Virginia in 1960, or his diving catches in the Orange Bowl against Mizzou for a score.
-Road to the Pro Game
Bellino's outstanding college career culminated in winning the 1960 Heisman Trophy, the most prestigious individual award in college football. This accomplishment significantly boosted his profile and made him a highly sought-after prospect in the professional ranks. Despite his commitment to the Navy, he was drafted by the Washington Redskins in the 17th round of the 1961 NFL Draft. He then served his required time in the Navy, and joined the Boston Patriots in 1965. His military commitment limited his professional football career, but his impact was still felt.
After the last game Joe played, the Navy retired his beloved number 27 from being used in the future. Bellino was rewarded for his talented performances by winning the Maxwell Award and the Heisman Trophy! The NFF voters wanted Joe Bellino to enter the College Football Hall of Fame in 1977. After he was done in Annapolis, he served his four-year obligation to the Naval Branch and then played for the Boston Patriots in the AFL for three years.
-Football Legacy
Joe Bellino's legacy extends beyond his professional football career. He is primarily remembered for his remarkable achievements at the Naval Academy. His Heisman Trophy win remains a symbol of excellence and dedication. His service to his country and his athletic accomplishments make him a true American hero. He embodied the values of discipline, leadership, and perseverance. While his NFL career was brief, his impact on college football is indelible.
-Accolades, Awards, and Career Stats
-1960 Heisman Trophy Winner: This is his most prominent achievement, recognizing him as the best college football player in the nation.
-Maxwell Award (1960): Awarded to the nation's most outstanding college football player.
-Walter Camp Memorial Trophy (1960): Another prestigious award for the top college football player.
-Navy Midshipmen Hall of Fame: Inducted for his exceptional contributions to Navy athletics.
-NFL: He played for the Boston Patriots from 1965-1967 primarily as a running back and kick returner.
-His NFL career was cut short due to his prior military obligations.
-His college stats are what he is primarily known for.
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Orville Mulligan: Sports Writer
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