George Hoey facts for kids

George William Hoey (born November 14, 1946) is an American former professional football player. He played as a defensive back, punt returner, and kickoff returner in the National Football League (NFL).

Before joining the NFL, George played college football for the Michigan Wolverines from 1966 to 1968. In the NFL, he played for several teams, including the Arizona Cardinals (1971), New England Patriots (1972–1973), San Diego Chargers (1974), Denver Broncos (1975), and New York Jets (1975). He was especially known for his skills in returning kicks and punts.

After his football career, Hoey began working in administration at the University of Colorado in 1993. He helped student athletes with their studies and later with their future careers.

Early Life & High School Sports

George Hoey was born in Gaffney, South Carolina. When he was 13, his family moved to Flint, Michigan. At Flint Central High School, George was a standout athlete in both football and track.

In 1963, during a big game against Bay City Central, George scored three touchdowns. One was a 63-yard punt return. He also ran back an interception for another touchdown. As a senior in 1964, he was named an All-State halfback. He scored 11 touchdowns and led his conference in scoring for two years. George was also a fast runner on the track team, winning the 60-yard dash at an indoor meet.

Michigan Wolverines: A Two-Sport Star

In 1965, George Hoey made history as the first African-American athlete from Flint to receive a scholarship to the University of Michigan. At Michigan, he continued to shine in both football and track.

On the track team, George set a 60-yard dash record in 1966. He was also part of the Wolverines' record-setting 4 x 100 meters relay team. In football, George mostly played as a defensive back and punt returner. This was because College Football Hall of Famer Ron Johnson was also a halfback in his class. In 1968, George was named an All-Big Ten defensive back.

Record-Breaking Punt Returns

George Hoey is especially remembered for his amazing punt returns at Michigan. He led the Big Ten Conference in punt return yards in both 1967 and 1968. He still holds several Michigan school records for punt returns.

Most Yards in a Single Game

On October 28, 1967, George Hoey gained 140 yards on just four punt returns against Minnesota. This is still Michigan's record for the most punt return yards in a single game.

Best Average Yards Per Return in a Season

Hoey also holds the modern Michigan record for average yards per return in a season. In 1967, he averaged 24.3 yards per return. This is more than eight yards higher than any other modern Michigan punt returner.

Highest Career Average Yards Per Return

George Hoey holds the Michigan school record for punt return yards per return in a career. He averaged 17.1 yards per return over his time at Michigan.

NFL Football Career

George Hoey was chosen by the Detroit Lions in the 1969 NFL draft. He played five seasons in the NFL. He played for the St. Louis Cardinals (1971), New England Patriots (1972–1973), San Diego Chargers (1974), Denver Broncos (1975), and New York Jets (1975).

In total, Hoey played in 53 NFL games. He had 21 kickoff returns for 534 yards and one touchdown. In 1971, he set a St. Louis Cardinals team record with a 103-yard kickoff return for a touchdown against the Philadelphia Eagles.

Working at the University of Colorado

After his football career, George Hoey started working at the University of Colorado in 1993. He first worked in the athletic department, helping student athletes with their schoolwork.

Later, in 1999, Hoey moved to the university's career services department. In this role, he provides career counseling to all students. He helps them prepare for their future jobs and make the most of the university's resources. In 2007, he was honored for his dedication to educating students.

Family & Achievements

George Hoey is married to Erin Hoag and has two sons, William and Sean. His cousin is Herb Washington, a former world-class sprinter and baseball player for the Oakland A's.

George Hoey has been recognized for his achievements. He was inducted into the Greater Flint Afro-American Hall of Fame in 2001. In 2003, he was also inducted into the Greater Flint Area Sports Hall of Fame.