For the past two days I got the opportunity to relive the playing career of Pittsburgh legend Dick Hoak, from his time at Penn State to his career with the Pittsburgh Steelers. Now it is time to look at Hoak and what he was probably most famous for-his coaching career. Similar to his playing career, what made Hoak’s run as a coach special wasn’t necessarily as much the success the Steelers had during the time, but the fact that for over four decades Hoak got to do it all right in his ... Read More
Dick Hoak: A Pittsburgh legend; the NFL career
Earlier I began discussing Pittsburgh legend Dick Hoak, by looking back at his collegiate career at Penn State. Now, in part two of a three-part series, I turn my attention to Hoak the NFL player. Not too many football players are afforded the opportunity of living their dream by getting to play in the NFL, but even fewer are afforded the opportunity of getting to do so in their hometown. Hoak got that opportunity when he was selected by the Pittsburgh Steelers in the seventh round of ... Read More
Dick Hoak: A Pittsburgh legend; the college years
It’s hard to think of Pittsburgh Sports legends and not include the name Dick Hoak on any list. The mere fact that Hoak accomplished what he did in both his playing and coaching career without ever leaving his backyard makes Hoak’s accomplishments that much more special. Those not familiar with Hoak, he not only was a high school standout at Jeannette High School, but took those talents to Penn State University where he excelled on both sides of the ball. From there Hoak was drafted by the ... Read More