Introduction
When it comes to American football, the name of the legendary coach, Harold Edward Neale – popularly known as “Greasy” – is undoubtedly worth mentioning. Though he was an outstanding football player in his younger days, his real success came when he became the coach of the Philadelphia Eagles, leading them to back-to-back NFL championships. Greasy Neale’s story is the perfect embodiment of how a person can overcome the odds to achieve success.
The Early Years of Greasy Neale
Born on November 5, 1891, in Parkersburg, West Virginia, Greasy Neale had a tough childhood, growing up in poverty. However, he discovered his calling in sports and soon became a notable athlete in high school. His talent led him to Ohio Wesleyan University, where he joined the football and baseball teams and emerged as a star player.
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Greasy Neale’s Career as a Football Player
Greasy Neale’s career as a football player can be divided into three parts, his college days, his military service, and his professional career. In college, he was the captain of the football team and had an exceptional season in 1913, leading his team to a 7-0-1 record. His military service during World War I temporarily halted his football career. However, after serving, he played for various professional football teams, including the Canton Bulldogs, the Dayton Triangles, and the Canton Bulldogs again.
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Greasy Neale’s Career as a Coach
Greasy Neale’s career as a coach is the most remarkable part of his legacy. Neale spent many years coaching at various universities, including Virginia Military Institute, Yale, and West Virginia Wesleyan. He then joined the Philadelphia Eagles in 1941 and remained with the team until 1950, winning two NFL championships in 1948 and 1949.
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The Success of Philadelphia Eagles Under Greasy Neale
The Philadelphia Eagles’ success story is incomplete without the mention of Greasy Neale. Neale took over the team when it was at its lowest point, and within a few years, he built a championship team. The Eagles won their first NFL championship in 1948, defeating the Chicago Cardinals. The team repeated the feat in 1949, beating the Los Angeles Rams.
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Greatest Moments in Greasy Neale’s Coaching Career
Greasy Neale had many memorable moments in his long coaching career. One of his greatest achievements was coaching the Eagles to the NFL championship in 1948. Neale also had an exciting moment at the 1949 NFL championship game, where Eagles quarterback Tommy Thompson threw a 15-yard touchdown pass to Pete Pihos, bringing the team to a 14-0 victory over the Rams.
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Greasy Neale’s Legacy: Honors and Accolades
Greasy Neale’s coaching career earned him many honors and accolades. In 1969, he was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame. He also has his place in the College Football Hall of Fame. The West Virginia Sports Writers Association named him the “Greatest Athlete in West Virginia History.” During his tenure as the head coach of the Eagles, he was named Coach of the Year in 1949.
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Personal Life and Death
Greasy Neale married Eleanor Kuerner in 1916, and the couple had three children. Eleanor passed away in 1924, leaving Neale a single father. In 1973, Greasy Neale passed away at his home in Florida at the age of 82.
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The Greasy Neale Foundation
The Greasy Neale Foundation was founded in 2014 to honor and preserve the legacy of Greasy Neale. The foundation aims to provide funding for sports-related programs and facilities in Parkersburg, West Virginia, and other nearby areas.
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Conclusion
Greasy Neale was a legendary football player and coach whose legacy and accomplishments will always be remembered. His journey towards fame and success is truly inspirational, and his contribution to the world of American football is immeasurable.
FAQs
Q1. Who were Greasy Neale’s greatest rivals during his coaching career?
A1. Greasy Neale’s greatest coaching rivals were George Halas of the Chicago Bears and Steve Owen of the New York Giants.
Q2. How many NFL championships did the Eagles win under Greasy Neale?
A2. The Eagles won two NFL championships under Greasy Neale’s coaching – in 1948 and 1949.
Q3. Was Greasy Neale ever inducted into the College Football Hall of Fame?
A3. Yes, Greasy Neale was inducted into the College Football Hall of Fame in 1967.
Q4. What is the Greasy Neale Foundation?
A4. The Greasy Neale Foundation is a charity organization founded in 2014, dedicated to preserving the legacy of Greasy Neale and providing funding for sports-related programs and facilities.
Q5. When did Greasy Neale pass away?
A5. Greasy Neale passed away in 1973 at the age of 82.