Joseph Robert Garcia Kapp, known widely as Joe Kapp, carved out a remarkable and unique career in professional football, distinguishing himself as the only quarterback to start in the Super Bowl, the Rose Bowl, and the Grey Cup. Born in 1938, Kapp's journey spanned 12 seasons across both the Canadian Football League (CFL) and the National Football League (NFL), in addition to his collegiate success. His career is a testament to his versatility, toughness,
and leadership, as he consistently led teams to significant achievements in different football environments.
Collegiate Success and the Rose Bowl
Before his professional career, Joe Kapp made a name for himself in college football at the University of California, Berkeley. Playing as a quarterback for the California Golden Bears, he led the team to a Pacific Coast Conference championship in 1958. This achievement culminated in an appearance in the prestigious Rose Bowl, where the Golden Bears faced Iowa. While they ultimately lost the game, Kapp's leadership in guiding his team to such a prominent bowl game was a significant accomplishment. This marked California's most recent appearance in the Rose Bowl, solidifying Kapp's place in the university's athletic history. His collegiate performance laid the groundwork for a professional career that would see him achieve similar feats on even larger stages.
Dominance in the Canadian Football League and the Grey Cup
Kapp's professional career began in the Canadian Football League after he was drafted by the Washington Redskins in the 1959 NFL draft but received no contact from them. He signed with the Calgary Stampeders, playing for them in 1959 and 1960. In 1961, he was traded to the BC Lions, where he truly flourished. Kapp quickly established himself as a formidable leader, guiding the Lions to a Grey Cup appearance in 1963. The following season, in 1964, he led the BC Lions to their first-ever Grey Cup victory, a monumental achievement for the franchise. His reputation as a tough player who loved contact and would run over defenders, unlike many quarterbacks, grew during this period. He spent six seasons with the BC Lions, from 1961 to 1966, before making the decision to return to the U.S. to play professional football.
Transition to the NFL and the Super Bowl
In 1967, Kapp joined the Minnesota Vikings in the NFL, a move that involved a rare transaction between the CFL and NFL. He quickly made an impact, leading the Vikings to their first playoff appearance in 1968. His most notable NFL season came in 1969, when he led the Vikings to the NFL Championship Game, which they won, securing a spot in Super Bowl IV. Although the Vikings ultimately lost Super Bowl IV to the Kansas City Chiefs, Kapp's presence as the starting quarterback in this championship game completed his unique trifecta. His ability to lead teams to the pinnacle of competition in college, Canadian, and American professional football leagues underscores his exceptional career and enduring legacy in the sport.
