Sports History Network

This Day In Sports History is part of the Sports History Network - The Headquarters For Your Favorite Sport's Yesteryear.

EPISODE SUMMARY

In 1967, Ken 'Hawk' Harrelson was 'fired' by Kansas City Athletics owner Charlie Finley, allowing Harrelson to sign with teams bidding for his services.

In 1990, the Philadelphia Phillies scored 9 runs in the ninth inning to beat Los Angeles 12-11.

Ray Nietzsche and Joe KappChampionship.

In 1975, the Rick and Paul Reuschel became the first and still only brothers to combine for a shutout in MLB history.

In 1974, the movie 'The Longest Yard' starring Burt Reynolds and featuring football players Ray Nietzsche and Joe Kapp debuted in theaters.

This Day In Sports History is part of the Sports History Network - The Headquarters For Your Favorite Sport's Yesteryear.

EPISODE SUMMARY

In 1920, four Ohio professional football teams gathered in Akron to form the APFA.

In 1962, New York Yankee Phil Linz picked a poor time to work on his harmonica playing.

In 2000, Tiger Woods beat Bob May in a three hole playoff to win the PGA Championship.

Gridiron Greats Magazine podcast is part of the Sports History Network - The Headquarters For Sports Yesteryear.

EPISODE SUMMARY

Bob and Co-Host Joe Squires talk about some incredible prices for unopened football boxes. And then they talk with Special Guests World Football League and United States Football League Football Card Historians and Experts Greg Allred, Richie Franklin and Bill Jones as they discuss their football cards from those leagues.

GRIDIRON GREATS MAGAZINE BACKGROUND

Gridiron Greats covers 140+ years of North American football history and memorabilia. It was founded in 2002 and published by Franklin Rose who then turned over to Bob Swick and Swick Enterprises starting with Issue 23.

Editor and publisher, Bob Swick has been collecting football cards since 1965. He has written about football cards and memorabilia since 1990 for several major sports collecting publications including Sports Collectors Digest and had his own column, Turning The Pages.

He self-published Bob Swick’s Football Times in the 1990s; he has been interviewed in Tuff Stuff, the Giants Report, the Packers Report, and the Beckett Football Monthly magazine. He has also been a contributor to the Beckett Annual Football Price Guide. Bob also collects programs, yearbooks, media guides, ticket stubs, pocket schedules, and team photos of the Green Bay Packers, of which he is a shareholder.

He is also a member of The Professional Football Researchers Association. Bob brings his expertise to the magazine in the form of his love of all things football-related. His BA in journalism and MS in Economics brings a unique focus to the niche of football memorabilia and history.

We want to thank everyone who takes the time to subscribe to and support Gridiron Greats Magazine. Besides our knowledgeable, generous contributors and most talented illustrator, Jared Kraus, all administrative activities are performed by Bob Swick and his wife, Brenda. Thank you all for your support. We are ever so grateful.

See our Contributors page for a bio on some of our fantastic writers. Without them, this magazine would not exist. We are grateful for their continuing support.

If you would like to be a contributing writer, or subscriber or want to advertise in Gridiron Greats, please contact the Publisher via the information above. Portions of the material presented are the opinion of the contributing writers and not necessarily those of Swick Enterprises, LLC.

CONTACT US If you are interested in any particular football topic that you would like to either see featured in Gridiron Greats or would like to write about, and if you have a Super Collection you want to be considered for an upcoming publication please feel free to contact Bob via email.

This Day In Sports History is part of the Sports History Network - The Headquarters For Your Favorite Sport's Yesteryear.

EPISODE SUMMARY

In 1951, 3'9" Eddie Gaedel stepped into the batter's box in an MLB game.

In 1995, Mike Tyson returned to the ring after spending three years in prison for the rape of an 18-year old.

In 1941, Pittsburgh manager Frankie Frisch was ejected for arguing for a rain delay.

The clandestine meeting between NFL and AFL executives in a Dallas parking lot marked a pivotal moment in the history of professional football, as it laid the groundwork for the eventual merger of these two rival leagues. This episode delves into the intricacies of this secretive encounter, highlighting the intense competition that had characterized the relationship between the leagues for six years. What began as a struggle for dominance transformed into a strategic alliance, culminating in a groundbreaking agreement that would forever alter the landscape of American football. We explore the motivations behind this merger, the financial implications, and the lasting impact it has had on the sport, ultimately leading to the creation of the Super Bowl as we know it today. Join us as we recount this remarkable chapter in football history, illustrating how a simple meeting between two adversaries heralded a new era in the game.

The narrative unfolds with an intriguing examination of a pivotal moment in sports history, specifically the clandestine negotiations that transpired in Dallas between two prominent figures from rival football leagues. This historical recounting emphasizes the competitive animosity that characterized the relationship between the National Football League (NFL) and the American Football League (AFL) during the mid-1960s. Initially perceived as a lesser league, the AFL’s resilience and strategic maneuvers shifted the dynamics, escalating tensions into what could be described as a financial warfare over player acquisitions. The episode meticulously chronicles the escalation of bidding wars for college football stars, culminating in the groundbreaking signing of quarterback Joe Namath, whose contract shattered previous financial records and signaled the AFL’s determination to rival its established counterpart. As the two leagues grappled with their financial duress, a secret meeting was orchestrated, bringing together Tech Sram of the NFL and Lamar Hunt of the AFL. Their negotiation, conducted discreetly in a parking lot, was aimed at crafting a merger that would forever alter the landscape of professional football. The agreements reached during this clandestine gathering included the establishment of a common draft and the creation of a shared championship game, which would eventually evolve into what is now known as the Super Bowl. This summary encapsulates the essence of the episode, illustrating the profound transformations initiated by a strategic alliance born out of necessity, rivalry, and visionary leadership. The episode culminates in a reflection on the monumental implications of this merger, highlighting the inaugural Super Bowl matchup between the Green Bay Packers and the Kansas City Chiefs. This concluding segment serves as a poignant reminder of how a series of calculated decisions and negotiations not only resolved a fierce rivalry but also laid the foundation for what has become one of the most significant events in American sports culture. The narrative encapsulates the essence of competition, collaboration, and the relentless pursuit of excellence that defines the sport today.

We would like to thank SportsLogos.Net for allowing us to use a couple of their logos.

Do you want more football history? Grab a copy of our Award-Winning book, "The World's Greatest Pro Gridiron Team: The 1903 Franklin All-Stars" at https://amzn.to/4rG6uVe

Don't forget to check out and subscribe to the Pigskin Dispatch YouTube channel for additional content and the regular Football History Minute Shorts.

Miss our football by the day of the year podcasts, well, don't, because they can still be found at the Pigskin Dispatch website.

Do you want more football history? Test your Gridiron Knowledge, we feed you Daily with our new FREE activity, The Pigskin Trivia Drive.

Grab a copy of our latest book, "Marooned," on the 1925 Pottsville Maroons NFL franchise saga.

*OR* Grab a copy of our book on Western Pennsylvania football history, "World's Greatest Gridiron Team" on the 1903 Franklin All-Stars

Drop us a line at PigskinDispatch@gmail .com and check out and subscribe to the Pigskin Dispatch YouTube channel.

Contact us directly at [email protected]

Miss our football by the day of the year podcasts, well, don't because they can still be found at the Pigskin Dispatch website.

Gridiron America is part of the Sports History Network - The Headquarters For Sports Yesteryear.

EPISODE SUMMARY

In this episode, we review the Indoor Football League's championship game in Tucson, Arizona where the upstate Arizona Rattlers brought back the IFL trophy back to Phoenix. After which we talk about the world flag football championship games that happened in Germany. After which we talk about Week 11 in the CFL, and mourn the loss of a CFL USA all time great, whose death prompted us to again talk about the health issues of former players.

GRIDIRON AMERICA BACKGROUND

Gridiron America (formerly, the From the 55 Yardline podcast), is anchored by former sports executive David Cieslinski, former international professional football player Mike Tackett, and football nerd Greg St. James.

All three are avid armchair sports historians and sports simulation enthusiasts, who, despite the vastness of geography, have found a way to leverage technology to help keep the games they love truly alive, both on the screen or tabletop.

Gridiron America Radio is dedicated to both current and historical American football talk, including the “what if” questions that all sports fans ask and try to answer with the help of statistics, math and computer modeling provided by SportsMaster Simulation Games www.SportsMaster-Simulation.games. In addition to the gridiron game, the team will on occasion look at other sports through the same eyes of that of grown men who still remember their childhood and the thrill of rolling the dice or picking up a joystick.

The show was previously co-hosted by retired sports journalist Scott Adamson, whose sports writing can be found at www.Adamsonmedia.com.

David, Mike and Greg, can be contacted directly via the podcast’s website at www.GridironAmerica.net, as well as:

On X at https://x.com/GridironAMRadio

On Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/GridironAmerica/

On Threads at https://www.threads.com/@gridironamerica

On Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/gridironamerica

Today, Rick covers the 13 rules of basketball that James Naismith, the game's founder, originally created.

Episode 87 re-air.

CREDITS

Rick Loayza: Head researcher, writer, and voice

Jacob Loayza: Editor, producer, and publisher

MUSIC

"The Stars and Stripes Forever" by John Philip Sousa

"Horizons" by Roa

SPORTS HISTORY NETWORK

sportshistorynetwork.com

sportshistorynetwork.com/podcasts/basketball-history-101/

FACEBOOK

m.facebook.com/Basketball-History-101-103801581493027/

BUSINESS CONTACT

[email protected]

Yesterday's Sports is part of the Sports History Network - The Headquarters For Sports Yesteryear.

YESTERDAY'S SPORTS HOME PAGE

EPISODE SUMMARY

Mark sits down with Scott Perry, author of NFL Since 1970: The Ultimate Visual and Historic Standings Reference.

The Journey to NFL Fanaticism

Scott shares his remarkable journey from being indifferent about football to becoming a devoted fan. It all began in 1978 when he discovered “Inside the NFL,” igniting a passion that would only grow.

Scott - "If it wasn't for Ed and Steve Sable, I probably would have still no interest in it. The hard pounding orchestral music, the slow motion video made me a fan."

Scott's fascination deepened as he meticulously tracked every NFL game from 1970 onwards, culminating in his visual guide that showcases standings and playoff grids alongside team helmets. His book serves as both a nostalgic walkthrough of the NFL's past and a reminder of how far the league has come.

The Heartbreak of 1985

One poignant moment in Scott's fandom was the 1985 season, where the Denver Broncos finished with an impressive 11-5 record yet failed to make the playoffs.

Scott - "The last straw was when Cleveland was in the playoffs with an 8-8 record, and Denver sat home with 11 wins."

This heartbreaking experience fueled his drive to analyze the league's performance and the inequalities in playoff qualifications, especially regarding division winners versus wild card teams.

A Love for History

Scott's passion for football history extends beyond the NFL. He emphasizes the importance of understanding the game's roots, from the early days of the league to the present.

Scott - "It's funny that there are several major league baseball teams that have been around since prior to 1900, but there's only been one triple-A team since then."

Scott urges football fans to appreciate the sport's evolution and the historical context behind each game.

Wrapping Up

Scott Perry's insights into the NFL are both informative and engaging, reminding us of the rich narratives that shape our favorite sports. His book is a testament to the enduring spirit of football and its impact on fans across generations.

YESTERDAY'S SPORTS BACKGROUND

Host Mark Morthier grew up in New Jersey just across the river from New York City during the 1970s, a great time for sports in the area. He relives great moments from this time and beyond, focusing on football, baseball, basketball, and boxing. You may even see a little Olympic Weightlifting in the mix, as Mark competed for eight years. See Mark's book below.

No Nonsense, Old School Weight Training: A Guide For People With Limited Time

Running Wild: (Growing Up In The 1970s)

This Day In Sports History is part of the Sports History Network - The Headquarters For Your Favorite Sport's Yesteryear.

The Continental Football League, an ambitious entity that existed between 1965 and 1969, serves as the focal point of our discussion today. We delve into the history and significance of this league, often overshadowed by the more prominent rivalries of the AFL and NFL during the 1960s. Joining us is historian Timothy B. Brown from FootballArchaeology.com, who provides invaluable insights into the league's formation, its attempt to merge with other football organizations, and the challenges it faced in securing a sustainable fan base. Throughout the episode, we reflect on the impact of the Continental Football League within the broader context of American football history, examining its role as a precursor to future leagues and its contribution to the sport. We invite our listeners to engage with us and share their experiences related to the Continental Football League, fostering a deeper appreciation for the complexities of football's evolution.

Don't forget to check out and subscribe to the Pigskin Dispatch YouTube channel for additional content and the regular Football History Minute Shorts.

Miss our football by the day of the year podcasts, well, don't, because they can still be found at the Pigskin Dispatch website.

Do you want more football history? Test your Gridiron Knowledge, we feed you Daily with our new FREE activity, The Pigskin Trivia Drive.

Grab a copy of our latest book, "Marooned," on the 1925 Pottsville Maroons NFL franchise saga.

*OR* Grab a copy of our book on Western Pennsylvania football history, "World's Greatest Gridiron Team" on the 1903 Franklin All-Stars

Drop us a line at PigskinDispatch@gmail .com and check out and subscribe to the Pigskin Dispatch YouTube channel.

Contact us directly at [email protected]

Miss our football by the day of the year podcasts, well, don't because they can still be found at the Pigskin Dispatch website.

A comprehensive examination of the Continental Football League, which thrived from 1965 to 1969, reveals an intriguing aspect of American football history that often remains overshadowed by the more prominent rivalries of the NFL and AFL during the same era. The Continental Football League was born out of the remnants of previous leagues such as the United Football League and the Atlantic Football League, ultimately consolidating teams from these defunct entities into a new framework. As the discussion unfolds, we explore the league's structure, starting with eight initial teams on the East Coast and how it expanded through strategic mergers with other minor leagues, culminating in a total of 22 teams by its dissolution in 1969. This summary delves into the rich narrative of the league's aspirations, challenges, and its ultimate fate, characterized by a lack of substantial television contracts and dwindling fan attendance, which ultimately led to its decline. The dialogue further illuminates the significance of the Continental Football League within the broader context of American football's developmental leagues. While it may not have garnered the same level of recognition as the NFL or AFL, the Continental Football League served as a vital platform for aspiring players and coaches. Notably, figures like Bill Walsh and Doak Walker graced its sidelines, highlighting the league's role in nurturing talent that would later permeate the national scene. The poignant comparison between the Continental Football League and contemporary minor leagues, such as the United Football League and arena football, underscores the cyclical nature of football's lower-tier competitions and their inherent struggles for visibility and viability. Moreover, the conversation draws parallels between the fan engagement of the 1960s and today’s sports culture, suggesting a shift in how audiences interact with minor league football. The discussion raises thoughtful insights into the evolution of local football fandom, noting that audiences in the past were more inclined to attend games, whereas today's consumers often prefer the convenience of televised events. This shift signals a broader transformation in how football is consumed and appreciated, providing a profound commentary on the cultural significance of local teams and the communal experiences they foster.