Craig Curry was the first Black quarterback at Coral Gables Senior High School, who broke racial barriers in Miami-Dade County during the 1960s despite ongoing segregation.
His journey from a segregated high school to leading an undefeated state championship team, earning a spot in the NFL Draft, and now facing paralysis with strength is nothing short of inspiring.
On September 21, 2025, Curry, now 75, will be inducted into the Florida High School Athletic Association (FHSAA) Hall of Fame in Gainesville, a strong proof of his everlasting legacy.
Born and raised in Miami’s Coconut Grove, Curry began his high school career at the all-Black George Washington Carver High School, coached by the legendary Nathaniel “Traz” Powell.
During the 1960s, segregation dictated where Black students could attend school, but court-ordered integration changed that.
When Carver High closed, Curry transferred to Coral Gables Senior High, a mostly white school in a bold move that would change the course of his life and South Florida sports history.
In 1966, Coral Gables’ head coach, Nick Kotys, made a groundbreaking decision when he named Curry the starting quarterback.
This was not a small thing in a Southern high school during an era of extreme racial discrimination, for which Kotys faced heavy criticism for his choice, but he saw something special in Curry, a boy with raw talent, leadership, and an unbeatable work ethic.
Curry’s teammate Bertram Taylor said, ” Craig was our Jackie Robinson,” who himself made history as the first Black running back for the team.
Curry established Koty’s right, leading the Coral Gables Cavaliers to a perfect 13-0 season in 1967 and securing the Florida large school state championship.
The Team played some of their biggest games at the iconic Orange Bowl, including back-to-back victories over rival Miami High in 1966 and 1967, drawing crowds of over 30,000.
In 2007, the FHSAA named the 1967 Cavaliers the best team in Florida high school football history, and later, they were crowned the “Team of the Century.”
Curry’s leadership on the field not only brought victories but also created the way for future generations of Black athletes in South Florida.
Craig Curry, who was a Star in High School, also became a Standout in College
Curry’s success earned him a scholarship to the University of Minnesota, where he continued to break barriers.
In 1971, he led the Big Ten Conference in total offense, a feat he accomplished twice during his college career.
His active play caught the attention of NFL scouts, and in 1972, the Miami Dolphins drafted him in the eighth round, making him the first African-American quarterback selected by the team.
However, the NFL in the early 1970s was not ready to welcome Black quarterbacks. Despite his talent, Curry was cut by the Dolphins at the end of the 1972 preseason.
Coach Don Shula opted to keep Jim Del Gaizo as the third quarterback behind Bob Griese and Earl Morrall.
At the time, no Black quarterback started in the NFL, which is a stark reminder of the era’s racial biases.
The Dolphins suggested Curry switch to wide receiver, a common request made of Black quarterbacks then, but Curry’s dream of playing quarterback in the NFL was cut short.
The following year, James Harris of the Los Angeles Rams and Joe Gilliam of the Pittsburgh Steelers became the first Black quarterbacks to start in the league, marking a slow shift in the sport.
After his Football Career, Curry Pursued his Passion for Sports as an Athletic Administrator
He served as the athletic director at the University of Arkansas-Pine Bluff, where he mentored countless young athletes.
Curry also became a public speaker, sharing his story of determination and leadership.
He co-founded the Coconut Grove Sports Hall of Fame, ensuring that the contributions of athletes from his community would never be forgotten.
Tragically, a stroke ten years ago left Curry paralyzed, adding a new chapter of challenges to his amazing life.
Craig Curry’s paralysis has bound him to a wheelchair, but it hasn’t dimmed his spirit.
He continues to inspire those around him with his strength and determination, qualities that defined his football career and now define his fight to live life fully despite physical limitations.
On September 21, 2025, Curry will take his rightful place in the FHSAA Hall of Fame, joining other Florida sports legends.
This honor not only recognizes his athletic achievements but also his role as a pioneer who broke racial barriers in a turbulent era.
His induction is a moment of pride for Coral Gables Senior High, Coconut Grove, and all of Miami-Dade County.
To show support, the Coral Gables High School Class of 1968 is gathering to help their classmate.
They’ve launched a GoFundMe campaign with a $45,000 goal to purchase a handicap-accessible van for Curry.
This vehicle will give him the mobility to guide daily life with greater independence, a fitting tribute to a man who has always pushed forward, no matter the odds.
Let’s honor this trailblazer by ensuring he can continue to move through life with the same strength and dignity he’s always shown.
