What Is the Oldest Continuously Operating Pro Football Franchise?
Professional football has a rich history in the United States, with numerous franchises having been established over the years. However, when it comes to the oldest continuously operating pro football franchise, one team stands out from the rest – the Arizona Cardinals.
The Arizona Cardinals, formerly known as the Chicago Cardinals, are the oldest continuously operating pro football franchise in the United States. The team was founded in 1898 in Chicago, Illinois, making it over 120 years old. Throughout its long history, the franchise has seen various changes, including relocations and team name alterations.
In 1920, the Chicago Cardinals were one of the founding members of the American Professional Football Association (APFA), which later became the National Football League (NFL). This makes them one of the oldest teams in the league. The franchise experienced both successes and struggles over the years, but it has managed to maintain its operations through thick and thin.
Throughout their existence, the Cardinals have undergone several relocations. In 1960, the team moved to St. Louis, Missouri, becoming the St. Louis Cardinals. After spending more than two decades in St. Louis, the franchise relocated once again, this time to Arizona, where they became the Arizona Cardinals in 1988. Since then, the team has been based in Glendale, Arizona, playing their home games at the State Farm Stadium.
The Cardinals have had their fair share of achievements and milestones over the years. They have won two NFL championships, in 1925 and 1947, while still based in Chicago. The team has also made numerous playoff appearances, including a Super Bowl appearance in 2009, where they narrowly lost to the Pittsburgh Steelers.
Now, let’s answer some common questions about the oldest continuously operating pro football franchise:
1. When was the Arizona Cardinals founded?
The Arizona Cardinals were founded in 1898 in Chicago, Illinois.
2. What were the previous names of the franchise?
The team was known as the Chicago Cardinals and later the St. Louis Cardinals before becoming the Arizona Cardinals.
3. How many NFL championships have they won?
The Cardinals have won two NFL championships, in 1925 and 1947.
4. When did the Cardinals move to St. Louis?
The franchise moved to St. Louis in 1960.
5. When did the Cardinals move to Arizona?
The Cardinals moved to Arizona in 1988.
6. Where do the Cardinals currently play their home games?
The team plays their home games at the State Farm Stadium in Glendale, Arizona.
7. How many Super Bowl appearances have they made?
The Cardinals have made one Super Bowl appearance, in 2009.
8. Who did they play against in the Super Bowl?
They played against the Pittsburgh Steelers in the Super Bowl XLIII.
9. What was the result of the Super Bowl they played in?
The Cardinals narrowly lost to the Pittsburgh Steelers in the Super Bowl XLIII.
10. Who are some famous players that have played for the Cardinals?
Some famous players who have played for the Cardinals include Larry Fitzgerald, Kurt Warner, and Pat Tillman.
11. Who is the current head coach of the Arizona Cardinals?
The current head coach of the Arizona Cardinals is Kliff Kingsbury.
12. How many playoff appearances have they made?
The Cardinals have made 10 playoff appearances.
13. What is the team’s official mascot?
The team’s official mascot is “Big Red,” a cardinal bird.
14. How many Pro Football Hall of Famers have played for the Cardinals?
The Cardinals have had 19 players inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame.
In conclusion, the Arizona Cardinals hold the distinction of being the oldest continuously operating pro football franchise. With a history that spans over 120 years, the team has seen various changes and relocations but has managed to maintain its presence in the NFL. Despite the challenges, the Cardinals have enjoyed success, including two NFL championships and numerous playoff appearances. As they continue to compete in the league, their legacy as the oldest franchise remains intact.
