This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 10/31/2021
Willie Galimore (D. 1964 in a car accident) member of the College Football HOF. Galimore possessed incredible speed and lateral movement; many of the opposing players of the time stated that they believed Galimore could run side-to-side down the field just as fast as most men could in a straight line. His running style could be said to most resemble the style of Billy Sims or perhaps Terrell Davis, but faster. In a documentary short by NFL Films on Galimore, it was said that he was probably the last great find before NFL scouting became sophisticated. Bears assistant coach Phil Handler, while scouting for talent in Florida, received a tip about Galimore's prowess as a halfback, and the Bears subsequently drafted him in the 5th round of the 1956 NFL draft. Galimore's peers (including Chuck Bednarik and Doug Atkins) referred to Galimore as one of the best runners they ever faced. Galimore was killed in an automobile accident on July 27, 1964 in Rensselaer, Indiana at the age of 29 with teammate Bo Farrington. His number 28 has been retired by the Bears.
The Orange Blossom Classic was an annual postseason college football game held between 1933 and 1978. Each year, it featured Florida A&M and another historically black school in an unofficial de facto championship game. It was seen as a mythical "Black National Championship" game. For example, the December 5, 1942, "Afro American" newspaper refers to the 1942 game as a national title game, as does at least one source for the 1945 game. Of note, Florida A&M made a record 46 appearances in this game while the series was in play.
Offered is the 1955 FAMU Orange Blossom Classic Outstanding Players Award given to Willie Galimore for his stellar play in this National Championship game against Grambling. This metal and heavy plastic trophy was made by Bodge Trophies and is one of Willie’s more important trophies from his collegiate days.
LOA Galimore Family