In the 1940s, Wismer became one of the original investors in the Detroit Lions, and later became a minority owner of the Washington Redskins. His involvement in team ownership gave him a unique perspective on the business of sports, and he became known for his innovative ideas and his willingness to challenge the status quo.
In 1959, Wismer was one of the founding members of the American Football League (AFL), a rival to the established National Football League (NFL). He served as the league's first president, and was instrumental in its early success. Wismer was also the original owner of the New York Titans, one of the AFL's original teams. Under his leadership, the Titans became a competitive force in the league, and Wismer was known for his hands-on approach to team management.
However, Wismer's tenure as team owner was not without controversy. He was often criticized for his financial management of the Titans, and the team struggled with financial instability throughout his ownership. In 1962, the team was sold to a group of investors led by Sonny Werblin, and was renamed the New York Jets. Despite these challenges, Wismer's contributions to the AFL and to professional football as a whole cannot be understated.
Wismer continued to work in sports broadcasting throughout his career, and was known for his passionate and colorful commentary. He was inducted into the American Sportscasters Association Hall of Fame in 1984, in recognition of his contributions to the field.
Harry Wismer passed away in 1967, leaving behind a legacy of innovation and passion for sports. Despite the controversies and challenges that marked his career, his impact on the world of professional football is undeniable. His role in founding the AFL and his pioneering work in sports broadcasting helped to shape the landscape of American sports as we know it today.
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1959
This 1959 radio broadcast features an interview with Johnny Unitas, a professional American football player...
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1958
In this 1958 radio clip, baseball legend Frankie Frisch shares his insights and experiences from...
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1956
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