Introduction: The Rise and Triumphs of Gary Beban
Gary Beban is renowned in American football history as one of the greatest quarterbacks of all time. His skill, determination, and leadership made him a standout player during his time at the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA), where he was also awarded the Heisman Trophy in 1967 as a senior. He was later picked by the Washington Redskins in the first round of the 1968 NFL Draft.
However, Beban’s journey towards success was not an easy one. He faced numerous challenges and setbacks along the way. Despite this, he persevered and managed to achieve great things throughout his career. In this post, we will take a storytelling approach to uncover the life story of the legendary quarterback, Gary Beban, highlighting his rise to the top and his triumphs throughout his career.
Section 1: Early Life and Youth Career
Gary Beban was born in San Francisco, California, on August 5, 1946. He grew up in a family of athletes, with his father being a former professional baseball player and his brother a college football player. Beban started playing football in junior high school and quickly became a standout player, impressing his coaches with his natural talent and drive.
In high school, Beban continued to shine, leading his team to two consecutive city championships. He was named the San Francisco Player of the Year in 1963 and was heavily recruited by colleges across the country. He eventually chose to attend UCLA, where he would spend the next four years honing his skills and becoming one of the best college quarterbacks of his time.
Section 2: College Career
At UCLA, Beban quickly established himself as a star player. He led the team to two Rose Bowl appearances and a 24-5-2 record during his three years as the starting quarterback. He set numerous records during his college career and became the first UCLA player to win the Heisman Trophy in 1967.
Despite suffering a shoulder injury during his senior year, Beban continued to play and led his team to a 20-16 victory over USC in his final college game. His performance during that game, which included a touchdown pass and a game-winning drive, is considered one of the greatest moments in UCLA football history.
Section 3: NFL Career
After graduating from UCLA, Beban was selected by the Washington Redskins in the first round of the 1968 NFL Draft, where he would play from 1968 to 1970. Beban also spent one season with the San Francisco 49ers in 1972. While his NFL career was not as successful as his college career, Beban still managed to make significant contributions to his teams and was respected by his peers for his work ethic and leadership.
Section 4: Life After Football
Following his retirement from football, Beban went on to have a successful career in business. He founded a technology company and later served as the CEO of an insurance company. Beban also remained involved in football, serving as a commentator for college and NFL games and working with youth football programs.
Section 5: Personal Life
Gary Beban has been married to his wife, Sandi, since 1968, and they have three children together. Beban has also been actively involved in charitable causes throughout his life, supporting organizations such as the Special Olympics and the American Cancer Society.
Section 6: Legacy and Honors
Gary Beban’s legacy in football is significant, especially at UCLA, where he is remembered as one of the greatest players in school history. He was inducted into the UCLA Athletics Hall of Fame in 1988 and the College Football Hall of Fame in 1998, further cementing his place in football history.
Section 7: FAQs
Q1: What was Gary Beban’s most significant achievement in football?
A1: Gary Beban’s most significant achievement in football was winning the Heisman Trophy in 1967 as a senior at UCLA.
Q2: What was Gary Beban’s career record as a starting quarterback at UCLA?
A2: Gary Beban had a 24-5-2 record as a starting quarterback at UCLA.
Q3: Did Gary Beban have a successful NFL career?
A3: While Gary Beban’s NFL career was not as successful as his college career, he still made significant contributions and was respected for his leadership.
Q4: What did Gary Beban do after retiring from football?
A4: Gary Beban had a successful career in business, founded a technology company, and served as the CEO of an insurance company. He also remained involved in football, serving as a commentator and working with youth programs.
Q5: What charitable causes has Gary Beban supported?
A5: Gary Beban has supported organizations such as the Special Olympics and the American Cancer Society.
Q6: What honors has Gary Beban received?
A6: Gary Beban has been inducted into the UCLA Athletics Hall of Fame and the College Football Hall of Fame.
Q7: What is Gary Beban’s legacy in football?
A7: Gary Beban’s legacy in football is significant, especially at UCLA, where he is remembered as one of the greatest players in school history.
Conclusion: Celebrating the Legendary Career of Gary Beban
Gary Beban’s rise to the top of football history was not easy, but his perseverance, skill, and leadership helped him achieve greatness. He is remembered as one of the best quarterbacks of all time and a legend at UCLA. Beyond football, Beban has also achieved success in business and remained involved in charitable causes. Today, we celebrate the life story and triumphs of the legendary quarterback, Gary Beban.