Neighborhood Football Wars In The Sixties

Mark Draper (left) and Rick Draper (right). Brothers in Arms

Growing up in the mid-sixties in western Virginia included neighborhood football games.  Players were solicited by knocking on random doors after school.  The homework was forgotten about. All that mattered was the anticipation of the perfect tackle or touchdown pass in an attempt to emulate Bart Starr or Johnny Unitas.

Every boy's hero.

The team selection process went as follows:  The biggest and best  players were never allowed to be on the same team. If a coin could be produced they would flip to decide who got the first pick. Players like Little Man were usually the last to be selected but were always available for a game and had an advantage because they were quick. 

My husband Rick carried the ball and he enjoys reminiscing about barreling over three or four defenders in his quest for the goal line.  He was practically impossible to take down and also very evasive. Danny Staples, aka Cherokee, was one of the rougher, bigger boys in the neighborhood.  Opposing players always dreaded the kickoff landing in his hands.  Gang tackles were necessary to stop him if at all.

The weather was never a factor. It could be raining, sunny, or snowing but the games went on.  Differences were settled on the field.  Most of the time your friends were still your friends after the game was done. The bruises, knots and scrapes weren't taken care of by a trainer. The only treatment would be a hot shower and a bandage.

These neighborhood battles still take place every day across this wonderful country of ours. Young boys still aspire to become college standouts or professionals in the big leagues. Did you play with someone who is now pro or turn pro yourself? Share it with us! Dreams often turn into reality.

Score!!!