This week we have a difficult problem:
Finn supports the Patriots and I support the Giants. Uh-oh! Hopefully, though, we can agree on some history.
- First, the “Father of American Football” is Walter Camp (April 7, 1859 – March 14, 1925). It turns out he (and a few others) modified the fine games of soccer and rugby to make this new-fangled game of American football.
- Next, the game turned professional in 1892, when someone was actually paid ($500) to play football (this makes the game much older than I had thought); and the Professional Football Association was formed in 1920 – and, well, you know where it is now.
Now, let’s talk about retirement and football.
- The person who played longest was George Blanda, who played about 26 years as quarterback. But he temporarily retired, and then came back, was a kicker, and finally left when he was near fifty. But most guys have to leave in their 30s.
- Here’s the good news: age is not an issue if you have enough money to own a team. Ralph Wilson is the owner of the Buffalo Bills, and he is 93.
- The owner of the Patriots is Robert Kraft (think cheese!). He’s only about 71.
- The Giants are owned by John Mara. (he’s about 58) and Steve Tisch (63) – and these two guys simply inherited the team – not bad! Tisch also has a movie production company so he’s a busy guy.
Since this is an election year, you might be interested in checking on the owners’ political contributions.
- The NewsMeat has a record of donations up through 2011. Robert Kraft has given to both parties. He also gives to the Gridiron PAC, which also gives to both parties. See one news story on this.
- There seems to be no record on John Mara’s giving, but his Dad, Wellington, gave well to the Republicans, and Steve Tisch gives mostly to the Democrats.
- See Giants and Patriots Toss Political Dollars To Democrats for an overview article which also includes player contributions.
- Also, check out the Huffington Post’s Fundrace site, which gives donations around the country, and you can search by name for New Hampshire politicians of interest.
