Hall of Famer George Reed is known as the all-time greatest fullback in the Canadian Football League (CFL) George Reed, played for the Saskatchewan Roughriders for 13 seasons from the time he joined them in 1963 until his voluntary retirement in May of 1976. His early football career started at the junior high school level in Renton, Washington, and continued on through college at Washington State University. He played both fullback and linebacker on the varsity football team. He graduated in 1963 with a Bachelor of Science Degree in Education. In the fall that same graduating year, George came to Canada to play professional football with the Saskatchewan Roughriders. Since becoming a professional at age 21, George has amassed not only the respect of fans everywhere, but, numerous awards, records and notable career highlights. George’s jersey #34 is permanently retired in the Canadian Football League Hall of Fame.
Awards and Designations
- Schenley Award (for most outstanding player in the CFL) – 1965 and was runner up for the award – 1968 and 1969
- Tom Pate Memorial Trophy (for outstanding sportsmanship, a contribution to his team, his community, and to the Players Association) – 1976
- Order of Canada Medal – 1978
Career Highlights
- Participated in four Grey Cup games including the 1966 victory over the Ottawa Rough Riders
- Led CFL in rushing for nine seasons
- Gained over 1,000 yards 11 times during his 13 year career
- Was named as All-Canadian Running Back for nine seasons
- Was named to the Western Conference All-Star team 11 times
- Was a member of five consecutive All-Star Games teams from 1970-1974
- Was Saskatchewan Roughriders team captain for 8 years of his 13 year playing career
- Inducted into the Saskatchewan Sports Hall of Fame – 1979
- Inducted into the CFL Hall of Fame – 1979
- Inducted into the State of Washington Hall of Fame – 1983
- Inducted into the Canadian Sports Hall of Fame – 1984
- Past president of Saskatchewan Sports Hall of Fame
- Past president of CFL Players Association – 1972-1980 and 1986-1995
- Established George Reed Foundation for the Handicapped – 1974
- Received an honorary Doctor of Laws Degree from the University of Regina for his outstanding contribution to the advancement of disabled people within society – 1981
- Board of Trustee for Washington State University – 1996 to present
Career Records
- Most yards gained while rushing (16,116 yards)
- Most touchdowns by rushing (134)
- Most touchdowns scored (137)
