Bob St. Clair, American football player (d. 2015)

Robert Bruce St. Clair, affectionately known as "The Geek" by his teammates, carved out a truly unique legacy as an American professional football player, politician, and businessman. Born on February 18, 1931, and passing away on April 20, 2015, at the age of 84, St. Clair's life was deeply intertwined with the city of San Francisco, a place where he achieved unparalleled consistency in his athletic career and made significant contributions to public service.

His journey through the world of football is virtually unrivaled: St. Clair stands as a singular figure in NFL history, having spent nearly his entire playing career, from high school through professional ranks, within the same city and often in the same iconic stadium. This remarkable connection to San Francisco underscores not only his talent but also his enduring local commitment.

Early Life and Collegiate Football Roots

St. Clair's roots were firmly planted in the Bay Area. He honed his early football skills at San Francisco's Polytechnic High School, which notably stood directly across the street from Kezar Stadium – a venue that would become synonymous with his athletic prowess. His collegiate career began at the University of San Francisco (USF), where he was a pivotal member of the legendary 1951 team, which achieved an undefeated season. This squad, despite its perfect record, famously declined an invitation to the Orange Bowl due to its refusal to exclude African-American players, a powerful statement of principle in that era. When USF subsequently discontinued its football program, St. Clair transferred to the University of Tulsa to complete his college career, demonstrating his dedication to the sport.

A Stalwart San Francisco 49er: NFL Career

Following his collegiate success, Robert Bruce St. Clair was drafted by the San Francisco 49ers in 1953, embarking on a professional career that would span until his retirement just before the 1964 season. True to his pattern, his entire NFL tenure was spent exclusively in San Francisco, wearing the red and gold of the 49ers. He was a formidable presence on the field, especially renowned for his blocking abilities. The NFL Hall of Fame archives credit St. Clair with an incredible 10 blocked field goals in the 1956 season alone, a testament to his defensive impact and athletic foresight.

His nickname, "The Geek," arose from his eccentricities and unique personality, but it belied a disciplined and effective player who was a cornerstone of the 49ers' defense for over a decade. He was a familiar face and a beloved figure in the local sports landscape, embodying the spirit of San Francisco football.

Legacy and Hall of Fame Recognition

Robert Bruce St. Clair's deep connection to Kezar Stadium was officially cemented in 2001. As a heartfelt tribute to his extraordinary 17 seasons of playing a staggering 189 home games at the historic venue – spanning his high school, college, and professional careers – the city of San Francisco proudly renamed the stadium's field in his honor. This fitting tribute recognized his unparalleled devotion to the city and its sporting heritage. Further solidifying his place among football's greats, St. Clair was elected to the prestigious Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1990, a definitive acknowledgment of his impact on the game.

Life Beyond the Gridiron: Public Service and Business

St. Clair's commitment to public service emerged even while he was still an active professional football player. In 1958, he was elected to the Daly City city council, a role that would eventually lead to him serving a term as mayor from 1961 to 1962. Remarkably, one of his colleagues on both the mayoral and council boards was his former high school coach, Joe Verducci, highlighting the close-knit community ties that defined much of St. Clair's life. His political career extended beyond Daly City, as he served as a county supervisor for San Mateo County from 1966 to 1974.

During his tenure as Daly City Mayor, the city played host to a significant moment in professional basketball history: the Philadelphia Warriors of the National Basketball Association relocated to the Cow Palace in Daly City, becoming the San Francisco Warriors. While the team eventually moved to Oakland and became the Golden State Warriors in 1971, St. Clair’s mayoral period marked this initial, exciting chapter. The Cow Palace even saw the Warriors win games 2 and 3 of the 1975 NBA World Championship Series on their way to sweeping the Washington Bullets.

Beyond public office, St. Clair also ventured into entrepreneurship. For many years, he owned a liquor store located at 24th and Sanchez in Noe Valley, which continues to bear his name today. This establishment at 3900 24th Street remains a tangible link to his multifaceted life.

Final Years and Passing

In February 2015, Robert Bruce St. Clair suffered a broken hip. Complications arising from this injury ultimately led to his passing on April 20, 2015, in Santa Rosa, California, at the age of 84. He left behind a legacy of athletic excellence, dedicated public service, and a unique, indelible connection to the city he called home.

Frequently Asked Questions about Robert Bruce St. Clair

Who was Robert Bruce St. Clair?

Robert Bruce St. Clair was an American professional football player, known for his long career with the San Francisco 49ers, and later a prominent politician who served as Mayor of Daly City and a San Mateo County Supervisor.

What was Robert Bruce St. Clair's nickname?

He was affectionately nicknamed "The Geek" by his teammates due to his eccentricities.

Which NFL team did Robert Bruce St. Clair play for?

He played his entire professional career for the San Francisco 49ers from 1953 until his retirement before the 1964 season.

What makes his football career unique?

St. Clair is likely the only player in NFL history to have spent nearly his entire playing career, from high school through professional levels, in the same city (San Francisco) and often in the same stadium (Kezar Stadium).

What major achievement is he known for as a player?

He is credited by the NFL Hall of Fame with blocking an incredible 10 field goals in the 1956 season alone.

Was Robert Bruce St. Clair a politician?

Yes, he was elected to the Daly City city council in 1958, served as Daly City Mayor from 1961 to 1962, and was a county supervisor for San Mateo County from 1966 to 1974.

How was he honored in San Francisco?

In 2001, the city of San Francisco renamed the field at Kezar Stadium in his honor, recognizing his 17 seasons and 189 home games played there.

Is Robert Bruce St. Clair in the Hall of Fame?

Yes, he was elected to the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1990.

When did Robert Bruce St. Clair pass away?

He passed away on April 20, 2015, at the age of 84.