Bob Dove

Robert Leo Patrick "Grandpappy" Dove (February 21, 1921 – April 19, 2006) served as an All-America end at the University of Notre Dame and went on to play for eight seasons in the National Football League. Following his retirement as a professional player, Dove embarked on a 37-year coaching career at the professional and collegiate levels. He was inducted into the College Football Hall of Fame in 2002.

Early years

Dove was born in Youngstown, Ohio, United States, a steel-production center located near the Pennsylvania border. Dove was a three-year starter at the city's South High School from 1936–38; and he was selected as an all-city player by the Youngstown Vindicator (the local daily paper) in his final year.

College football and beyond

Dove went on to greater athletic feats at the University of Notre Dame, where he was a three-year starter at end from 1940–42. He was a consensus All-American in his final two seasons. As a freshman in 1939, he caught 15 passes for 87 yards. Dove then became the first sophomore to start for the Notre Dame "Fighting Irish" in 11 seasons. He received the Knute Rockne Memorial Trophy in 1942 as the top lineman in the country and also played in the East-West Shrine All-Star Game. During his three seasons as a starter, Dove helped the Irish to a 22-4-3 record, including an undefeated (8-0-1) campaign in the first season of legendary coach Frank Leahy.