Ralph Edward Hay was the owner of the Canton Bulldogs from 1918 through the 1922 season.
11 Facts About Ralph Hay
2.
Ralph Hay set up the Ralph E Hay Motor Company, and sold Jordan Hupmobiles and Pierce-Arrows.
3.
Ralph Hay became one of the most successful automobile dealers in the state of Ohio.
4.
In 1918, at the age of 27, Ralph Hay acquired the Canton Bulldogs from Jack Cusack, when Cusack decided to return to Oklahoma and compete in the oil industry.
5.
Ralph Hay had planned to use the team to help promote his car business and pursue his love of football.
6.
On Friday, August 20,1920, Ralph Hay met in Canton with the managers of the Akron Pros, Cleveland Tigers, and Dayton Triangles to form the American Professional Football Conference.
7.
At the meeting Ralph Hay was elected secretary of the league.
8.
Ralph Hay then wrote to every important pro team in the Midwest, including George Halas manager of the Decatur Staleys, inviting them to meet in Canton on Friday, September 17,1920 at 8:00 pm.
9.
Ralph Hay was asked to become the league's president, however he suggested that Jim Thorpe take the position on the belief that his fame would enhance the league.
10.
Ralph Hay built a strong team in Canton during the early 1920s, signing three future Hall of Famers in tackle Wilbur Henry, tackle Roy "Link" Lyman, and end Guy Chamberlin.
11.
Ralph Hay was married to Esther Becker, who had previously served as his secretary.