Navy Athletic

Born March 13, 1938, in Winchester, Massachusetts was the swift Navy halfback for the era of 1958 to 1960 Joe Bellino arrived into this world. Joe was a special talent as shown when 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 3 scored to lead Navy over the Cadets per the story on the National Football Foundations website. Bellino followed that performance with one in 1960 where he rallied the Middies to a 17-12 win over Army and then inspired the Naval Academy to a 14-7 victory over an always tough Notre Dame team as well. Joe’s Collegiate football highwater mark according to the NFF’s bio on him was a four touchdown performance against Virginia in 1960 or the diving catch he made in the Orange Bowl against Mizzou for a score. Navy retired his beloved number 27 from being used in the future after the last game Joe played. Bellino was rewarded for his talented performances by winning not only the Maxwell Award but the Heisman Trophy as well! The NFF voters summed up their desire for Joe Bellino to enter into 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.

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.