George Halas

Date of Birth: February 2, 1895

Zodiac Sign: Aquarius

Date of Death: October 31, 1983

Biography

George Stanley Halas Sr., also known as “Papa Bear” and “Mr. Everything,” was an American professional football player, coach, and team owner. Born on February 2, 1895, in Chicago, Illinois, Halas is best known for his monumental contributions to the National Football League (NFL) and the Chicago Bears franchise. He was a founding member of the NFL and played a crucial role in its development into the premier professional football league in the world. Halas attended the University of Illinois, where he was a standout athlete in football, basketball, and baseball. After serving as an ensign in the U.S. Navy during World War I, he briefly played Major League Baseball for the New York Yankees before turning his focus to football. In 1920, Halas co-founded the Decatur Staleys, who would later become the Chicago Bears. He served as a player-coach and eventually took on the role of team owner. Over his 40-year coaching career, Halas led the Bears to six NFL championships and was known for his innovative strategies and emphasis on physical fitness and discipline. Halas was instrumental in the NFL’s growth and success, serving on various league committees and helping to establish the league’s television policy, which greatly increased its popularity. He was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1963 as part of its inaugural class.

5 Interesting Facts about George Halas

1. Halas was not only a founder of the Chicago Bears but also a key figure in the founding of the NFL itself in 1920.

2. He briefly played Major League Baseball for the New York Yankees in 1919.

3. Halas served in both World War I and World War II, achieving the rank of lieutenant commander in the Navy.

4. He was known for wearing a fedora hat on the sidelines during games.

5. Halas pioneered the use of film in analyzing football plays and strategies.

5 Most Interesting Quotes from George Halas

1. “Nobody who ever gave his best regretted it.”

2. “Many people flinch at the thought of using old-fashioned discipline, but in my mind, it’s absolutely essential.”

3. “Find out what the other team wants to do. Then take it away from them.”

4. “Winning isn’t everything, but wanting to win is.”

5. “Don’t do anything in practice that you wouldn’t do in the game.”

Highest Net Worth Achieved

At the time of his death in 1983, George Halas’ net worth was estimated to be around $5 million, a significant amount considering the era and his investments in the Chicago Bears.

Children

George Halas had two children: 1. Virginia Halas McCaskey: She is the principal owner of the Chicago Bears and has carried on her father’s legacy. 2. George Halas Jr. (Mugs Halas): He was heavily involved in the Bears organization but predeceased his father, passing away in 1979.