Frank “Bruiser” Kinard is a name etched in the annals of football history. Known for his exceptional performance as a tackle, Kinard made significant contributions to American football.
He was honored with induction into both the College Football Hall of Fame and the Pro Football Hall of Fame, solidifying his status as one of the greats in the sport.
Born in Pelahatchie, Mississippi, Kinard’s journey began on the gridirons of Ole Miss, where he played from 1935 to 1937.
Frank Kinard’s skill and determination were evident early in his career. His reputation as a strong and versatile player earned him a spot as a charter member of the College Football Hall of Fame in 1951.
Notably, he also became the first player from his state to achieve All-America status. This combination of talent and hard work made him a standout and a pivotal figure in the history of Ole Miss football.
You can read more about his accomplishments on the Pro Football Hall of Fame website.
In the professional realm, Kinard’s prowess continued as he weighed just 195 pounds when he began his pro career in 1938. Despite his lighter frame compared to modern linemen, his impact on the field was monumental.
He remained a dominant force throughout his career, even playing at 216 pounds in his final season. This remarkable athlete’s storied career serves as an inspiration for football players and fans alike.
Further details on his professional achievements are available on Wikipedia.
Who Is Frank “Bruiser” Kinard?
Frank “Bruiser” Kinard was an American football player known for his strength and skill on the field. He played as a tackle and had notable achievements both in college and professional football, being inducted into various Halls of Fame.
Where Did Frank “Bruiser” Kinard Grow Up?
Bruiser Kinard was born on October 23, 1914, in Pelahatchie, Mississippi. Later, he moved to Jackson, Mississippi, where he attended Central High School.
Growing up in the southern United States, he developed his football skills early on, playing in local leagues and making a name for himself in high school football.
His childhood in Mississippi played a crucial role in shaping his sports career. He became known for his dedication and work ethic, traits that stayed with him throughout his professional life.
Where Does Frank “Bruiser” Kinard Live?
Frank Kinard passed away on September 7, 1985. During his lifetime, he lived in various places due to his football career.
After his professional playing days, he settled in Mississippi, returning to his roots. He spent his last years in Jackson, Mississippi, staying close to family and the community where he grew up.
Throughout his career, he maintained strong ties to Mississippi, contributing to local sports programs and serving as a university athletic administrator. His legacy continues to influence the local football community.
Who Is Frank “Bruiser” Kinard Married To?
Frank Kinard was married to Shirley Jones Kinard. Their marriage was known for its strong bond and mutual support, especially during the highs and lows of his football career.
Shirley stood by him during his time as a professional player and later as a coach and administrator.
The couple was well-respected in their community, often participating in local events and supporting various charitable activities. Their partnership served as a foundation for Kinard’s personal and professional life.
Does Frank “Bruiser” Kinard Have Children?
Frank Kinard had children, including his sons George and Billy Kinard. Both followed in their father’s footsteps to some extent.
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George Kinard played college football, while Billy Kinard not only played but also took up coaching.
The Kinard family maintained a strong tradition in football, contributing to the sport both on and off the field. The legacy of Frank Kinard extended through his children, who continued to influence the football world in various capacities.
Frank “Bruiser” Kinard College Football Career
Frank “Bruiser” Kinard was a notable figure in college football, remembered for his outstanding performance and significant contributions to his teams. This section delves into key aspects of his college football career, including where he played, his coaching roles, his awards, and his achievements in bowl games.
Where Did Frank “Bruiser” Kinard Play College Football?
Frank Kinard played college football for the University of Mississippi, commonly known as Ole Miss. He was a standout player from 1935 to 1937.
As a tackle, he showcased his strength and agility, making a lasting impact on the field. During his time at Ole Miss, Kinard earned a reputation for his defensive skills and was integral to the team’s successes.
His performance helped Ole Miss secure multiple victories and elevated the school’s status in the college football world. Kinard’s college career laid the foundation for his future accolades and recognition in professional football.
Did Frank “Bruiser” Kinard Coach College Football?
Frank Kinard also contributed to college football as a coach after his playing days. He returned to Ole Miss, where he served as an assistant coach.
His experience as a player allowed him to provide valuable insights and guidance to the newer generations of players.
Kinard’s coaching career was marked by his emphasis on discipline and tactical understanding of the game. His coaching stint added another layer to his already impressive football legacy, making him a respected figure in both playing and coaching circles.
What Awards Did Frank “Bruiser” Kinard Accomplish in College Football?
During his college career, Frank Kinard received numerous accolades. Most notably, he was named to the first-team All-America in both 1936 and 1937, making him the first player from Mississippi to earn this honor.
He was also selected for the All-Southern Team, reflecting his dominance on the southern gridirons.
Kinard’s performance in college football earned him a place in the College Football Hall of Fame as a charter member in 1951. These awards underscore his exceptional talent and contribution to college football.
What Bowl Games Did Frank “Bruiser” Kinard Win in College Football?
While Frank Kinard was a key player for Ole Miss, the team did not secure any major bowl game victories during his tenure from 1935 to 1937. Despite the absence of bowl game wins, his individual performance and leadership helped Ole Miss establish a stronger presence in college football.
Kinard’s efforts brought recognition to his team and set the stage for future successes. His contributions were not just measured in wins but also in the enduring legacy he left at Ole Miss.
Frank “Bruiser” Kinard Professional Football Career
Frank “Bruiser” Kinard had a unique and influential career in professional football, playing both as an offensive tackle and taking on coaching responsibilities. His legacy includes his time in the National Football League (NFL) and other professional leagues, his coaching contributions, and the various accolades he earned throughout his career.
Did Frank “Bruiser” Kinard Play in the NFL?
Frank “Bruiser” Kinard began his professional career in the NFL, playing for the Brooklyn Dodgers. He joined the team in 1938 and quickly made an impact as an offensive tackle.
Despite his relatively modest weight of 195 pounds, he demonstrated exceptional skill and toughness, which earned him a prominent place on the team.
The Brooklyn Dodgers were part of the NFL from 1930 to 1945. During his time with the Dodgers, Kinard became known for his agility and strength, attributes that were vital for his position. Learn more about Frank “Bruiser” Kinard’s NFL career.
Did Frank “Bruiser” Kinard Coach in the NFL?
After his playing days, Kinard transitioned into coaching. Though he didn’t coach in the NFL, he did have a notable coaching career in other capacities.
He served as an assistant coach at his alma mater, Ole Miss, where he contributed to shaping future talents.
His coaching career extended to roles beyond just team-specific duties. Kinard’s influence in football was felt in administrative roles as well, where he served as an athletic administrator. This aspect of his career allowed him to impact the sport in numerous ways aside from coaching on the field.
What Awards Did Frank “Bruiser” Kinard Accomplish in Professional Football?
Kinard’s professional career was decorated with significant awards and honors. He was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1971, a testament to his exceptional performance and impact on the game.
This prestigious honor highlighted his achievements as a player.
In addition to his Pro Football Hall of Fame induction, Kinard was also recognized in the College Football Hall of Fame as a charter member in 1951. These accolades reflect his outstanding contributions at both the college and professional levels. His legacy is further cemented by his inclusion in the halls of fame for both college and pro football. Read more about his Hall of Fame inductions.
Did Frank “Bruiser” Kinard Win a Super Bowl?
Despite his impressive career, Frank “Bruiser” Kinard did not win a Super Bowl. The Super Bowl era began in 1967, after Kinard’s playing career had ended.
However, he left an indelible mark on the game through his performances and contributions.
Playing in an era before the Super Bowl, Kinard’s achievements were measured by different standards. His impact was recognized through his induction into multiple halls of fame and the respect he garnered from peers and sports historians alike. His legacy in professional football remains significant even without a Super Bowl title.
What Is Frank “Bruiser” Kinard Up To Now?
Frank “Bruiser” Kinard, a celebrated Hall of Fame lineman, left an indelible mark on football. Though he passed away on September 7, 1985, his legacy continues to influence the sport. This section explores his enduring impact and how his name still resonates in the football community.
Is Frank “Bruiser” Kinard Still Involved in Football?
Frank “Bruiser” Kinard has not been involved in football since his passing in 1985. His contributions, however, have left a lasting legacy.
Inducted into the College Football Hall of Fame in 1951 and the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1971, his impact on the game is still recognized. People often find his techniques and style as a lineman relevant even today. His influence is especially felt in discussions about the history of college and pro football.
Does Frank “Bruiser” Kinard Do Private Speaking Engagements?
Given that Frank “Bruiser” Kinard passed away in 1985, he does not partake in private speaking engagements. During his lifetime, he shared insights and experiences, especially in his role as an athletic administrator at the University of Mississippi.
His stories and lessons continue to be conveyed through the institutions and those he mentored, serving as a source of inspiration.
Does Frank “Bruiser” Kinard Have a Podcast?
Frank “Bruiser” Kinard did not have a podcast. Podcasts as we know them did not exist during his lifetime.
His legacy is preserved through traditional media, historical articles, and mentions in football-related publications. Recorded interviews and old radio shows sometimes feature his insights, giving football enthusiasts a glimpse into his thoughts and philosophies.
Has Frank “Bruiser” Kinard Gone Into Broadcasting?
During his lifetime, Frank “Bruiser” Kinard did not transition into a broadcasting career. He focused on coaching, administration, and other roles within athletic institutions.
Despite not venturing into broadcasting, his name often appears in retrospectives and documentaries about football history, cementing his place as a significant figure in the sport.
What Is Frank “Bruiser” Kinard’s Net Worth?
Accurately determining Frank “Bruiser” Kinard‘s net worth is challenging due to several factors. He played during an era when professional athletes earned far less than they do today.
In the 1930s and 1940s, salaries for football players were modest.
During his career, players often had to work additional jobs to support themselves. They didn’t have access to the lucrative endorsement deals and other revenue streams that players enjoy today.
This context makes estimating his net worth almost impossible.
Career Earnings
Bruiser Kinard played for the Brooklyn Dodgers and the New York Yankees in the NFL and the AAFC. Players in his era typically earned between $2,000 and $5,000 annually.
Adjusted for inflation, this would be equivalent to earning between approximately $35,000 and $85,000 a year today.
Post-Playing Career
After retiring from playing, Kinard became a coach and university athletic administrator. Though these roles provided him with a steady income, they likely did not contribute significantly to his net worth compared to modern standards.
Legacy and Honors
Kinard has been recognized for his contributions to football, being inducted into both the College Football Hall of Fame and the Pro Football Hall of Fame.
His legacy lives on, but it is his impact on the sport and not his financial worth that defines his life’s work.
The financial landscape for professional athletes has changed significantly since Kinard’s time. Despite this, his contributions to football remain invaluable, providing a lasting impact that surpasses any monetary value.
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