This week in Beaver County history.
Born: Joe Namath, May 31, 1943
On May 31, 1943, American Pro Football Hall of Fame quarterback (Super Bowl 1969; Super Bowl MVP 1969; Pro Bowl 1972; NY Jets), born in Beaver Falls, Pennsylvania.
Born May 31, 1943 – Known for Football and Broadcasting
Joseph William Namath was born on May 31, 1943, in Beaver Falls, Pennsylvania. He grew up in the Lower End neighborhood and attended Beaver Falls High School, where he played multiple sports. Namath became the starting quarterback for the University of Alabama and helped the team win a national championship in 1964. In 1965, he was selected first overall in the AFL Draft by the New York Jets. He played 13 seasons of professional football, mainly with the Jets. In 1969, he led the team to a victory in Super Bowl III and was named the game’s MVP. This win marked the first Super Bowl victory for an AFL team. Namath became known for his performance on the field and his role in football’s growing popularity. He was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1985. Namath’s early life in Beaver Falls shaped his path to a professional sports career.
