George Halas, often referred to as "Papa Bear," was a pivotal figure in the history of American football. His contributions to the sport are vast, but perhaps his most enduring legacy is the founding and development of the Chicago Bears. From their origins as the Decatur Staleys to becoming one of the most storied franchises in the NFL, Halas's influence is undeniable. This article delves into how Halas's vision and leadership shaped the Bears and left
a lasting impact on professional football.
The Birth of the Decatur Staleys
In 1920, George Halas moved to Decatur, Illinois, to work for the A. E. Staley Company, a starch manufacturer. While there, he took on multiple roles, including serving as a sales representative and an outfielder for the company's baseball team. However, his most significant role was as the player-coach of the company's football team, the Decatur Staleys. Halas's leadership was evident from the start, as he selected the team's colors—orange and navy blue—based on his alma mater, the University of Illinois.
Halas's involvement with the Staleys coincided with the formation of the American Professional Football Association (APFA), which would later become the National Football League (NFL). Halas represented the Staleys at the APFA's founding meeting in Canton, Ohio, in 1920. This marked the beginning of a new era for professional football and set the stage for the Staleys' transformation into the Chicago Bears.
Transition to the Chicago Bears
Despite a successful 10-1-2 record in their first professional season, the Staleys faced financial difficulties. Recognizing the potential for greater success in a larger market, Halas moved the team to Chicago in 1921. Augustus E. Staley, the company's founder, supported the move with a $5,000 bonus, provided the team retained the Staleys name for one more season. Halas partnered with teammate Edward "Dutch" Sternaman, and the team became the Chicago Staleys.
The move to Chicago proved fruitful, as the team attracted larger crowds and won their first NFL championship in 1921. The following year, Halas renamed the team the Chicago Bears, drawing inspiration from the Chicago Cubs, with whom they shared Wrigley Field. Halas reasoned that if baseball players were cubs, then football players, being larger, must be bears.
Halas's Lasting Impact
Halas's influence extended beyond the field. He was not only the team's coach but also played as an end and managed the business operations. His dedication to the team and the sport was evident in his innovative approaches, such as holding daily practice sessions and analyzing opponents' game films. Under his leadership, the Bears won six NFL titles, and Halas became a charter member of the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1963.
George Halas's vision and leadership were instrumental in shaping the Chicago Bears into a powerhouse in professional football. His legacy continues to be felt in the NFL, and his contributions to the sport are celebrated by fans and players alike.
