Pro Football or National Football League( NFL ) originated in 1869. The game was a combination of rugby and soccer. During the early years of the NFL, blacks were not allowed to play until 1902 when Charles Follis signed a contract to be the first African-American to play in the NFL.
Known as the "Black Cyclone"Follis grew up in Wooster Ohio were he helped set up his high schools first football team in 1899. Charles Follis then went on to play for the Shelby Ohio Blues. From fear of leaving the Blues, Follis' manager signed him to a contract which included a payment for playing his games in the NFL. Sololy on this action Charles Follis was inducted into the Professional Football Hall of Fame.
After injuries ended his football carrer Follis played baseball. Follis was considered to be an even better baseball player than what he was a football player. Follis was the team catcher and one of the best in the league. He came to be known for his power hitting along with his excellent speed. Follis played in the Ohio State Colored League and then for the Negro professional Cuban Giants.Follis played along side Branch Rickey, who would later become famous for the General Manager who signed Jackie Robinson.
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