A difficult life of discrimination and racism began when Motley went to high school, and while on the football team was denied pads and a uniform. Despite not having the essential safety equipment to play the sport, he pushed through and prevailed.It was at McKinley high school where he was coached by future Pro Football Hall of Fame coach Paul Brown. In 1940, Motley transferred from South Carolina State College to the University of Nevada. Both talented and versatile, he would become one of the university's star players. It was also here that the young player endured a constant battle for equality and justice. He rallied against racism both on and off the field, but never let that get in between him and his determination to play football. In a game against the …show more content…
Like the game against the Vandal's, he proved that his talent was worthy enough of joining the Cleveland Browns of the All-America Football Conference. In doing so, he smashed the race barrier in professional football becoming one of the first African Americans to play the professional sport. In the final year of the AAFC, 1949, Motley finished his four-stint with 3,024 yards, a 6.2 yards-per-attempt average, and 26 touchdowns, playing a key role in the Browns' winning of four AAFC crowns. The next year, the team was absorbed into the new National Football League. Here, with the use of outstanding defense and the newly developed draw and trap series, Motley ended his career with an average of 5.7 yards per carry- a still standing record for fullbacks. The discrimination he faced was overridden with an even stronger will to play. Had he given up, there would be no barrier to be broken, no records to be set, and no people to inspire. Marion Motley became a role model and mentor, especially for young black athletes. Though he died of cancer in 1999, his legacy thrives with his induction into the Pro-Football Hall of