In this undated file photo, Chicago Bears founder George Halas points to a photo of the 1920s Decatur Staleys football club, which later became the Bears. In its first season, 1920, the American Professional Football Association had 14 teams including the Decatur Staleys.
Years of Coaching Bears: In 1920-29; 1933-42; 1946-55 years; 1958-67
Record: 318-148-31 (.682)
What Tribune wrote: “George Halas, one of the best athletes ever developed at the University of Illinois and trialled with the New York Yankees last season, has signed on to play with the Industrial team Staley.” – Chicago Tribune, March 23, 1920
“George Halas, a former Illinois star and Staley 11th-team coach for two years and one of Staley’s top players, will not be returning to the local factory next season but will be joining. into the Chicago business.” – Chicago Tribune, January 19, 1922
“Professional footballers and their followers are gearing up for a big season. With the opening of the collegiate and prep seasons, the prairie teams and those more fortunate in defending the closed grounds have done their job of reorganizing and drilling the fields. their team.
“Chicago, like last year, will feature two big teams in the big professional soccer league.
“The Chicago Bears, which will be the name of the team made up of the larger part of the Decatur Staleys last fall, will perform at Cub Park, while southward Chris O’Brien will again feature Cardinal eleven. of last year in the field and the games will be played at the Sox Park.
“Joe Sternaman and George Halas are the organizers and supporters of Bear eleven. Halas announced that in addition to some of Staley’s old gang, Laurie Walquist, Illinois; Larson and Garvey, formers of Notre Dame, and Lafleur of Marquette were signed. Among the Staleys are Halas, Trafton, Stinchcomb, Scott, Lanum, Pod Pearce, Smith, Blacklock and Bolan who will return. Halas will act as the coach.” – Chicago Tribune, September 20, 1922
