Rapp Resolution Recognizes 150th Birthday of Titusville-Raised College Football Pioneer John Heisman

October 24, 2019

HARRISBURG – On Wednesday, the Pennsylvania House unanimously approved House Resolution 478 which honors renowned college football coach John William Heisman on his 150th birthday. The resolution was sponsored by Rep. Kathy Rapp (R-Warren/Crawford/Forest).

Born on Oct. 23, 1869, in Cleveland, Ohio, Heisman was raised near Titusville, played football near his father’s local oil cooperative and graduated from Titusville High School in 1887.

Watch Rep. Rapp’s House floor remarks on House Resolution 478 by clicking the video box below.



“Just some of Heisman’s legendary innovations include legalizing the forward pass, the center snap, the scoreboard and the creation of game quarters,” stated Rapp. “The Heisman Trophy—which is named in his memory and has become college football’s highest amateur honor—has been awarded to many gridiron greats including Penn State’s John Capelletti and the University of Pittsburgh’s Tony Dorsett. In recognition of this extraordinary college football pioneer, I thank my fellow members for unanimous passage of House Resolution 478.”

Representative Kathy Rapp
65th District
Pennsylvania House of Representatives
Media Contact: Ty McCauslin
717.772.9979
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