Charles Follis

About

Known as the Black Cyclone, he was the first African American to play professional football. 

Before Fame

He was playing football at the Wooster Athletic Association, where his superb athleticism caught the eye of Frank C. Schieffer, the manager of a local semi-pro football club.

Trivia

He eventually made it to the professional leagues, playing for the Shelby Blues.

Family Life

He was born in Cloverdale, Virginia, moving with his family to Wooster, Ohio at a young age.

Associated With

Ray Kemp, born some 20 years later, also became one of the first black players in the NFL.