Johnny Unitas

He was a famous American football player. He was known as the "Golden Arm" or simply "Johnny U." You may have never know about his humble beginnings. Johnny Unitas was born in Pittsburgh, PA in 1933. His early life was not easy. His father died when he was young so he was raised by his mother who had to work two jobs. Although he played football in high school, he was looked over by Notre Dame and Indiana. His hometown school, PITT, offered him a scholarship but he could not pass the entrance exam. He was eventually picked up by the University of Louisville.

Although he was no superstar at the University of Louisville, he had enough success that he got picked up by the Pittsburgh Steelers out of college. The Steelers, however, let him go the first year. After that he was hired by the Baltimore Colts where he spent the rest of his career, except for his last year, as a San Diego Charger. As a Colt, he came in to his own and was known for his poise under pressure and his competitive spirit.

Unitas went on to win 3 NFL Championships and to make and break many records in his professional career. Many of which still stand today. In his career he passed over 40,000 yards. He retired from the game he loved in 1973. He went on to be successful in business. He died on September 11, 2002 always to be remembered as the successful competitor he was.