Kenny Washington Fans Gather To Get His Name On 2014 Hall Of Fame Ballot
LOS ANGELES (CBSLA.com) — Friends and supporters of Southern California football great Kenny Washington gathered Saturday with two goals in mind -- one is to get him on the 2014 Hall of Fame ballot.
Supporters gathered at Abraham Lincoln High School, fitting as he was a star running back there.
CBS2 and KCAL9 reporter Suraya Fadel was at the meeting and at a memorial game (the second annual) held in Washington's honor.
The group's second goal is to transform the sports facility at Lincoln High School.
Washington went on to UCLA where he rushed for more than 1900 yards, a record which stood for three decades.
Born in 1918, Washington was the first black to sign with an NFL team in the modern era.
He graduated in 1940, but -- because of race -- it took more than 5 years for him to be drafted.
Washington played for the Rams after the team moved to Los Angeles.
While his NFL stint only lasted three years, his impact on the game is considered enormous.
Washington died in 1971 at the age of 52.
For more information about Washington and his foundation, click here.
