Charles Follis, Date of Birth, Place of Birth, Date of Death

Charles Follis

first black professional American football player

Date of Birth: 03-Feb-1879

Place of Birth: Cloverdale, Virginia, United States

Date of Death: 05-Apr-1910

Profession: baseball player, American football player

Nationality: United States

Zodiac Sign: Aquarius

Charles W.
Follis, a.k.a.
"The Black Cyclone," (February 3, 1879 – April 5, 1910) was the first Black professional American football player.
He played for the Shelby Blues of the "Ohio League" from 1902 to 1906.
On September 16, 1904, Follis signed a contract with Shelby making him the first Black man contracted to play professional football on an integrated team.
He was also the first Black catcher to move from college baseball into the Negro Leagues.