Fritz Pollard

Frederick Douglass (Fritz) Pollard (January 27, 1894 ? May 11, 1986) was the first African-American head coach in the National Football League. He played college football at Brown University and later played professional football with the Akron Pros, the team he would lead to NFL (APFA) championship in 1920. In 1921, he became the co-head coach of the Pros, while still maintaining his roster position as running back.

Related Topics:
January 27 - 1894 - May 11 - 1986 - African-American - National Football League - Brown University - Akron Pros - 1920 - 1921 - Running back

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He also played for the Milwaukee Badgers, Hammond Pros, Gilberton Cadamounts, and Providence Steam Roller. In 1928, Pollard organized and coached the Chicago Black Hawks, an all-African American professional team. The Black Hawks played against white teams around Chicago, but enjoyed their greatest success by scheduling exhibition games against West Coast teams during the winter months.

Related Topics:
Milwaukee Badgers - Hammond Pros - Gilberton Cadamounts - Providence Steam Roller - Chicago Black Hawks

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Pollard was a member of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity Inc., the first intercollegiate Greek-letter fraternity established for African Americans.

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