Joe Kendall*
Kentucky State University
Quarterback, 1934-36


Nicknamed “Tarzan” for his athletic prowess, Joe Kendall dominated black college football in the 1930s while leading Kentucky State to a national championship in 1934.

Kendall, considered one of the first running quarterbacks, led the Thorobreds to a 1935 Orange Blossom Classic victory over Florida A&M en route to an impressive 29-7-3 overall record during his playing years.

A three-time First Team All-America selection from 1934-36 by the Pittsburgh Courier, Kendall is the first person in KSU history to be inducted into the College Football Hall of Fame. He was inducted into the Kentucky State Athletics Hall of Fame in 1975.

Following his player career, Kendall served as a coach, teacher and school principal. As a result of his significant contributions as a recreational director in Owensboro, Ky., a park was named in his honor.

*deceased