Harry Rusan facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Harry Rusan |
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| Shortstop | |||
| Born: April 1, 1910 St. Louis, Missouri |
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| Died: November 9, 1987 (aged 77) Detroit, Michigan |
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| debut | |||
| 1931, for the Brooklyn Royal Giants | |||
| Last appearance | |||
| 1931, for the Brooklyn Royal Giants | |||
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Harry Alfonso Rusan (born April 1, 1910 – died November 9, 1987) was an amazing American athlete. He was famous for playing both basketball and baseball professionally. Harry Rusan played basketball for the world-famous Harlem Globetrotters and was a talented shortstop in Negro league baseball during the 1930s.
Harry Rusan was born in St. Louis, Missouri. He went to Paul Quinn College to study. After college, he started his professional sports career. He played baseball for the Brooklyn Royal Giants in 1931. His basketball career with the Harlem Globetrotters lasted much longer, from 1933 to 1942. Harry Rusan passed away in Detroit, Michigan in 1987 when he was 77 years old.
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Harry Rusan: A Two-Sport Star
Harry Rusan was a rare athlete who excelled in two different professional sports. Playing both baseball and basketball at a high level showed his incredible talent and dedication. Many athletes focus on just one sport, but Harry Rusan managed to master two.
Playing Basketball with the Globetrotters
Harry Rusan spent many years playing for the Harlem Globetrotters. This team is known for its incredible basketball skills and entertaining tricks. They travel all over the world, playing games and putting on amazing shows.
- A Unique Team: The Globetrotters started in the 1920s. They became famous for combining serious basketball with comedy and amazing stunts.
- Traveling the World: During Harry Rusan's time, the Globetrotters were already touring widely. They brought basketball to many different places and entertained millions of fans.
- His Role: Harry Rusan was a key player for the team from 1933 to 1942. He helped them become one of the most recognized sports teams in the world.
Baseball in the Negro Leagues
Before joining the Globetrotters full-time, Harry Rusan also played professional baseball. He was a shortstop for the Brooklyn Royal Giants in 1931. This team was part of the Negro Leagues.
- A Special Time in Baseball: The Negro Leagues were professional baseball leagues for African American players. This was during a time when Black players were not allowed to play in Major League Baseball.
- Talented Players: Many incredibly talented baseball players played in the Negro Leagues. They played exciting games and had huge fan bases.
- Harry's Position: As a shortstop, Harry Rusan played a very important defensive role. Shortstops need to be quick, have strong arms, and be very smart about the game.
Life After Sports
After his professional sports career, Harry Rusan lived a long life. He passed away in 1987. His legacy as a two-sport athlete, especially with the Harlem Globetrotters and in the Negro Leagues, is an important part of sports history. He helped pave the way for future generations of athletes.
