Jackson State's Walter Payton starred in the 1975 Senior Bowl. He is 1 of 11 who will be enshrined in the first class of the Black College Football Hall of Fame
Photo Source: SeniorBowl.com
The College Football Hall of Fame was established in 1951. 59 years later, it was finally decided to open the doors for the Black College Football Hall of Fame (BCFHoF). Historically Black Colleges and Universities were established back in the 60’s during the height of racism as an outlet for young men and women to overcome discriminatory practices seen amongst the other colleges and universities. This outlet allowed for black students and athletes to attend higher education and to play the sport they loved most without dealing with the hatred seen in so many other institutions.
It’s about time these athletes and coaches were recognized and praised for their success. The (BCFHoF) will open its doors on February 20, 2010 with the enshrinement of its first class. The inductees are as follows:
- Walter Payton, running back (Jackson State, 1971-74);
- Jerry Rice, wide receiver (Mississippi Valley State, 1981-84);
- Deacon Jones (SC State & Mississippi Valley State, 1958 – 60)
- Eddie Robinson, head coach (Grambling State 1941-97)
- Buck Buchanan, a defensive end for Grambling State (1959-1963);
- Willie Galimore, a running back for Florida A&M (1953-1956);
- Willie Lanier, a linebacker for Morgan State (1963-1967);
- Ben Stevenson, a running back for Tuskegee (1923-1930);
- Paul Younger, a running back-defensive back for Grambling State (1945-1948);
- Bill Nunn, Jr. (Pittsburgh Courier journalist and NFL scout); and,
- Alonzo Gaither, Florida A&M’s head coach from 1945 to 1969.
Congratulations to all the inductees! A round of applause is truly deserved. If you are in Atlanta on the 20th, you wont want to miss this historical inaugural enshrinement ceremony.
On a side note, ESPN Monday Night Football Analyst Jon Gruden will serve as Master of Ceremonies.
