Oorang Indians
June 24, 1922 - Oorang Indians franchise forms and survives in the 1922 through the 1923 season. The Ohio History Central website indicates that this team featured Jim Thorpe and every member of the squad was of Native American descent. The team was based in La Rue, Ohio and was very active in the early 1920s APFA. A guy by the name of Walter Lingo established the franchise in an effort to promote his Oorang dog kennels. La Rue, Ohio, is the smallest community ever to have sponsored a National Football League franchise. However, the Oorang Indians never played a single game in La Rue. All twenty of the team's games during the 1922 and 1923 seasons were on the road. So how did that work out? Well in the team's first season, the Indians finished twelfth in the league, with a record of two wins, six losses, and zero ties. The next season, the team finished eighteenth, with one win, ten losses, and zero ties. Needless to say with only 3 victories and no home games the Oorang Indians had to fold up shop after the 1923 season.
Seattle Seahawks Origin
The roar of the "12th Man" wasn't always a feature of Seattle's sports scene. In fact, the yearning for a major league football franchise fueled the very arrival of the Seattle Seahawks.
Discontent with the lack of professional football began brewing in the late 1950s. Dreams of a "dome city" with a professional football team gained traction as discussions about constructing a multi-purpose stadium commenced. By 1972, a group of Seattle business and community leaders formed "Seattle Professional Football Inc." with the sole purpose of acquiring an NFL franchise.
Their persistence paid off. Fueled by a civic suggestion campaign that garnered over 20,000 entries for team names, the NFL awarded Seattle its 28th franchise in 1974. The winning entry, "Seahawks," reflected the city's connection to the Pacific Northwest.
June 4, 1974- Seattle Seahawks franchise forms after almost 20 years of planning, plotting and applying. Finally on this date in 1974 the NFL granted access into the league and the Pacific Northwest gained foot hold in professional football as an expansion team.
From 1977 to 2001, Seattle was assigned to the American Football Conference West. In 2002 and beyond after NFL realignment, the Hawks went into the NFC West. The team has played in 3 Super Bowls and raised the Lombardi Trophy in Super Bowl XLVIII under the coaching of Pete Carroll.
The Seahawks' arrival wasn't without its challenges. As an expansion team, they initially struggled to find their footing. However, the city's enthusiasm remained. The "Kingdome," the aforementioned multi-purpose stadium, became a sea of blue and green, laying the foundation for the passionate fanbase the Seahawks boast today.
The founding of the Seattle Seahawks is a testament to community spirit and perseverance. It's a story born out of fan frustration that ultimately ignited a city's love affair with professional football. From those early days, the Seahawks have become an integral part of Seattle's identity, their legacy forever intertwined with the city's vibrant sports culture.
Discontent with the lack of professional football began brewing in the late 1950s. Dreams of a "dome city" with a professional football team gained traction as discussions about constructing a multi-purpose stadium commenced. By 1972, a group of Seattle business and community leaders formed "Seattle Professional Football Inc." with the sole purpose of acquiring an NFL franchise.
Their persistence paid off. Fueled by a civic suggestion campaign that garnered over 20,000 entries for team names, the NFL awarded Seattle its 28th franchise in 1974. The winning entry, "Seahawks," reflected the city's connection to the Pacific Northwest.
June 4, 1974- Seattle Seahawks franchise forms after almost 20 years of planning, plotting and applying. Finally on this date in 1974 the NFL granted access into the league and the Pacific Northwest gained foot hold in professional football as an expansion team.
From 1977 to 2001, Seattle was assigned to the American Football Conference West. In 2002 and beyond after NFL realignment, the Hawks went into the NFC West. The team has played in 3 Super Bowls and raised the Lombardi Trophy in Super Bowl XLVIII under the coaching of Pete Carroll.
The Seahawks' arrival wasn't without its challenges. As an expansion team, they initially struggled to find their footing. However, the city's enthusiasm remained. The "Kingdome," the aforementioned multi-purpose stadium, became a sea of blue and green, laying the foundation for the passionate fanbase the Seahawks boast today.
The founding of the Seattle Seahawks is a testament to community spirit and perseverance. It's a story born out of fan frustration that ultimately ignited a city's love affair with professional football. From those early days, the Seahawks have become an integral part of Seattle's identity, their legacy forever intertwined with the city's vibrant sports culture.
Gale Sayers
May 30, 1943 - Wichita, Kansas - Gale Sayers the top notch Kansas Halfback, also known as the “Kansas Comet” was born. Gale is one of the most talented backs to have ever graced the gridiron.
The FootballFoundation.org lists that Mr. Sayers was a two-time First Team All-America selection for the Jayhawks, and when he concluded his KU career he had 2,675 yards rushing and 3,917 all-purpose yards. The Kansas Comet led KU in rushing, touchdowns and kickoff returns all three years he wore the Jayhawk colors. Gale also led the team in receiving and punt returns in his final two years with the program. Sayers became the first player in NCAA Division IA history to record a 99-yard run when he broke loose against Nebraska in Lincoln during the 1963 season.
One of Sayers top collegiate moments on the gridiron has to be the 96-yard kickoff return that aided a 15-14 upset of Oklahoma in his senior season. The University retired his number 48 jersey soon after he wore it last. Gale Sayers’ collegiate football records are celebrated in the College Football Hall of Fame after his induction in 1977.
The Chicago Bears drafted Sayers in the first round of the 1965 NFL Draft and he had an almost immediate impact on the entire League! The Pro Football Hall of Fame says right out of the chute Gale in a pre-season game raced 77 yards on a punt return, 93 yards on a kickoff return, and then startled everyone with a 25-yard scoring pass against the Los Angeles Rams. During the regular games he kept it going, as this standout player set a rookie record that season of 22 touchdowns and 132 points! The Comet scored four touchdowns, including a 96-yard game breaking kickoff return, against the Minnesota Vikings. But that was not the rookie’s grand finale. No, not even close to it. In the second to the last game of the year, playing on a muddy field that would have stalled most rushing attempts, Gale scored a record-tying six touchdowns against the San Francisco 49ers. Included in his sensational spree were an 80-yard pass-run play, a 50-yard rush and a 65-yard punt return. Sayers went on to have a short but brilliant career with 9435 combined yards in his career, 4956 yards from running.
Gale still is the all-time leader in NFL kick returns as he was also an All-NFL selection in five straight seasons and the player of the game in three different Pro Bowls. The Pro Football Hall of Fame honored Gale Sayers with enshrinement in 1977 to become one of a very few that entered both Football Hall of Fame's in the same year.
The FootballFoundation.org lists that Mr. Sayers was a two-time First Team All-America selection for the Jayhawks, and when he concluded his KU career he had 2,675 yards rushing and 3,917 all-purpose yards. The Kansas Comet led KU in rushing, touchdowns and kickoff returns all three years he wore the Jayhawk colors. Gale also led the team in receiving and punt returns in his final two years with the program. Sayers became the first player in NCAA Division IA history to record a 99-yard run when he broke loose against Nebraska in Lincoln during the 1963 season.
One of Sayers top collegiate moments on the gridiron has to be the 96-yard kickoff return that aided a 15-14 upset of Oklahoma in his senior season. The University retired his number 48 jersey soon after he wore it last. Gale Sayers’ collegiate football records are celebrated in the College Football Hall of Fame after his induction in 1977.
The Chicago Bears drafted Sayers in the first round of the 1965 NFL Draft and he had an almost immediate impact on the entire League! The Pro Football Hall of Fame says right out of the chute Gale in a pre-season game raced 77 yards on a punt return, 93 yards on a kickoff return, and then startled everyone with a 25-yard scoring pass against the Los Angeles Rams. During the regular games he kept it going, as this standout player set a rookie record that season of 22 touchdowns and 132 points! The Comet scored four touchdowns, including a 96-yard game breaking kickoff return, against the Minnesota Vikings. But that was not the rookie’s grand finale. No, not even close to it. In the second to the last game of the year, playing on a muddy field that would have stalled most rushing attempts, Gale scored a record-tying six touchdowns against the San Francisco 49ers. Included in his sensational spree were an 80-yard pass-run play, a 50-yard rush and a 65-yard punt return. Sayers went on to have a short but brilliant career with 9435 combined yards in his career, 4956 yards from running.
Gale still is the all-time leader in NFL kick returns as he was also an All-NFL selection in five straight seasons and the player of the game in three different Pro Bowls. The Pro Football Hall of Fame honored Gale Sayers with enshrinement in 1977 to become one of a very few that entered both Football Hall of Fame's in the same year.
Bob Waterfield Talented Rams QB
Born July 26, 1920, in Elmira, New York, Bob Waterfield, Pro Football Hall of Fame, enshrined QB of the Rams franchise both in Cleveland and Los Angeles. He was important enough to the Rams franchise that his number 7 jersey was retired by the organization.
The former UCLA Bruin's signal caller briefly interrupted his college career when the U.S. Army called him into service during WWII. His football prowess was legendary, and so was his off-field life as he married actress Jane Russell just before serving in the Army and playing for Fort Bennings 176th Infantry football team.
After this service in the war, Mr. Waterfield returned to the Bruins in an honorable discharge due to a knee injury and played in the 1944 season for UCLA. He was drafted as the 42nd pick in the 1945 NFL draft by the Cleveland Rams, and as a rookie, won the starting job, led the team to a 9-1 record and the NFL Championship in an exciting 15-14 victory over the Washington Redskins!
The former UCLA Bruin's signal caller briefly interrupted his college career when the U.S. Army called him into service during WWII. His football prowess was legendary, and so was his off-field life as he married actress Jane Russell just before serving in the Army and playing for Fort Bennings 176th Infantry football team.
After this service in the war, Mr. Waterfield returned to the Bruins in an honorable discharge due to a knee injury and played in the 1944 season for UCLA. He was drafted as the 42nd pick in the 1945 NFL draft by the Cleveland Rams, and as a rookie, won the starting job, led the team to a 9-1 record and the NFL Championship in an exciting 15-14 victory over the Washington Redskins!
Tom Brady One Heck of QB
Born August 3, 1977, in San Mateo, California, was legendary Quarterback Tom Brady. TB12 attended and played for University of Michigan Wolverines, and was selected 199th overall by the New England Patriots in the sixth round of the 2000 NFL Draft.
He became the starting quarterback during his second season, which saw the Patriots win their first Super Bowl title in Super Bowl XXXVI. As the team's primary starter for 18 seasons, Brady led the Patriots to 17 division titles (including 11 consecutive from 2009 to 2019), 13 AFC Championship Games (including eight consecutive from 2011 to 2018), nine Super Bowl appearances, and six Super Bowl titles, all NFL records for a player and franchise.
Tom joined the Buccaneers in 2020 and won Super Bowl LV, extending his individual records to ten Super Bowl appearances and seven victories. He holds numerous NFL records.
He became the starting quarterback during his second season, which saw the Patriots win their first Super Bowl title in Super Bowl XXXVI. As the team's primary starter for 18 seasons, Brady led the Patriots to 17 division titles (including 11 consecutive from 2009 to 2019), 13 AFC Championship Games (including eight consecutive from 2011 to 2018), nine Super Bowl appearances, and six Super Bowl titles, all NFL records for a player and franchise.
Tom joined the Buccaneers in 2020 and won Super Bowl LV, extending his individual records to ten Super Bowl appearances and seven victories. He holds numerous NFL records.
Art Donovan Jolly Good Football Player
Born June 5, 1925, was Art Donovan Jr. who was a Pro Football Hall of Fame defensive tackle that played professionally for the Baltimore Colts, New York Yanks and the Dallas Texans during his great career.
Donovan started college at the University of Notre Dame but this was cut short due to his enlisted service in the U.S. Marine Corps during World War II. Art fought in some of the most famous battles of the war including Iwo Jima and Luzon. Donovan is a true hero as he earned multiple citations for his service and bravery and was even inducted into the U.S. Marine Corps Sports Hall of Fame.
-College Career
Art Donovan's collegiate football journey began at Boston College.
Known for his immense size and strength, he quickly established himself as a formidable force on the defensive line. Donovan's physicality and tenacity made him a dominant presence, earning him recognition as an All-American. His college years laid the foundation for a legendary professional career.
-Road to the Pro Game
Donovan's professional football career was marked by its unique trajectory. Initially drafted by the New York Giants, his path took several turns before he found his true home. He played for the Baltimore Colts, New York Yanks, and Dallas Texans before returning to Baltimore, where he would etch his name in NFL history.
It was with the Baltimore Colts that Donovan truly flourished. As part of the legendary "Bulldogs" defensive line, alongside the likes of Gino Marchetti and Don Joyce, he became a cornerstone of one of the NFL's most formidable defenses. His ability to disrupt offensive lines and pressure quarterbacks earned him widespread acclaim. Donovan's career was highlighted by two NFL championships with the Colts, solidifying his status as a football icon.
-Football Legacy
Art Donovan's legacy extends far beyond his on-field accomplishments. Known for his larger-than-life personality and sharp wit, he was as beloved for his colorful character as he was for his football prowess. His ability to entertain audiences with his storytelling and humor made him a popular figure both during and after his playing career.
Beyond his comedic flair, Donovan was a fierce competitor who left an indelible mark on the game. His impact on the defensive line position is immeasurable, as he helped redefine the role of the defensive tackle. A member of the Pro Football Hall of Fame, Donovan's contributions to the sport are celebrated to this day. His story serves as an inspiration to aspiring athletes and football fans alike, showcasing the power of talent, determination, and a unique personality.
After the war Art played football for Boston College before he became a pro.
Donovan started college at the University of Notre Dame but this was cut short due to his enlisted service in the U.S. Marine Corps during World War II. Art fought in some of the most famous battles of the war including Iwo Jima and Luzon. Donovan is a true hero as he earned multiple citations for his service and bravery and was even inducted into the U.S. Marine Corps Sports Hall of Fame.
-College Career
Art Donovan's collegiate football journey began at Boston College.
Known for his immense size and strength, he quickly established himself as a formidable force on the defensive line. Donovan's physicality and tenacity made him a dominant presence, earning him recognition as an All-American. His college years laid the foundation for a legendary professional career.
-Road to the Pro Game
Donovan's professional football career was marked by its unique trajectory. Initially drafted by the New York Giants, his path took several turns before he found his true home. He played for the Baltimore Colts, New York Yanks, and Dallas Texans before returning to Baltimore, where he would etch his name in NFL history.
It was with the Baltimore Colts that Donovan truly flourished. As part of the legendary "Bulldogs" defensive line, alongside the likes of Gino Marchetti and Don Joyce, he became a cornerstone of one of the NFL's most formidable defenses. His ability to disrupt offensive lines and pressure quarterbacks earned him widespread acclaim. Donovan's career was highlighted by two NFL championships with the Colts, solidifying his status as a football icon.
-Football Legacy
Art Donovan's legacy extends far beyond his on-field accomplishments. Known for his larger-than-life personality and sharp wit, he was as beloved for his colorful character as he was for his football prowess. His ability to entertain audiences with his storytelling and humor made him a popular figure both during and after his playing career.
Beyond his comedic flair, Donovan was a fierce competitor who left an indelible mark on the game. His impact on the defensive line position is immeasurable, as he helped redefine the role of the defensive tackle. A member of the Pro Football Hall of Fame, Donovan's contributions to the sport are celebrated to this day. His story serves as an inspiration to aspiring athletes and football fans alike, showcasing the power of talent, determination, and a unique personality.
After the war Art played football for Boston College before he became a pro.
NFLers Avoid Campus Women
I don’t know whether NFL players and prospects still receive a list of dos and don’ts upon arrival at training camp, but they did when the Chicago Cardinals arrived at Lake Forest College to prepare for the 1956 season. The Cardinals went 7-5 that year, good for second place in the league’s Eastern Conference, but they failed to attract much attention among Chicagoans, who trickled into Comiskey Park for Cardinals’ home games. Even after starting the season 4-0, only 30,553 bothered show — www.footballarchaeology.com
The Football Archaeology of the NFL's Chicago Cardinals visiting a training camp out of town.
Professional Football Goes Hollywood
Professional Football Goes Hollywood: Professional Football and the City of Los Angeles’ Rise to Prominence [Shmelter, Richard J.] on Amazon.com. *FREE* shipping on qualifying offers. Professional Football Goes Hollywood: Professional Football and the City of Los Angeles’ Rise to Prominence — www.amazon.com
Rich Shmelter has authored a great book that parallels the growth of Los Angeles along with the brands of football that played near the city.
San Francisco 49ers founder Tony Morabito
Here is the official page of the 49ers and a short bio on their founder Tony Morabito and how the Niners came to be.
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