Royal Cathcart

ROYAL CATHCART C/O 1943: "Most Memorable LBP Football Experience: "Tying Wilson 6-6 and keeping Poly's 10 year game winning streak alive."

Royal Cathcart's calm demeanor and laid back personality leave no wonder as to why he has been successful in every task he has undertaken. He has a rich history that begins at Poly and extends well into his adult and professional life. Royal was born on April 8, 1926 in Canute, OK and would become a trailblazer in establishing Poly's role as the true Home of Scholars and Champions.

As a student at LB Poly Royal had an affection for all sports, so much so that he played nearly every sport there was to play while a Jackrabbit. Although Royal only played one year of football at Poly, his fierce competitiveness and love of the game made him one of the top area players. As a running back on the 1942 team, Royal quickly catapulted himself to Jackrabbit stardom. After graduating from Poly in 1943, Royal embarked on the journey that makes him the revered figure he is today. Royal went on to serve in World War I with his brother and fellow honoree Sam Cathcart. Royal would return from the war to attend Long Beach City College where a played alongside former Poly greats such as Sam Dimas, who he had idolized as an adolescent.

After a brief stint at LBCC Royal, transferred to UC Santa Barbara with his brother Sam Cathcart. His time at UC Santa Barbara was well spent; it earned Royal a spot on the 1950 San Francisco 49ers team. Eventually Royal retired as an active NFL player and moved into sports officiating, a career that would span a period of 40 years. His tenure with the NFL lasted over 15 years.

During that time Royal served as an NFL Line Judge, Instant Replay Observer, and College Scout. As a line judge, Royal was an instrumental factor in one of the most famous plays in the history of American football, The Immaculate Reception. The play, which occurred at an AFC playoff game between The Steelers and The Raiders in 1972, has been called the greatest and most controversial play of all time.

Royal currently resides in Newport Beach, CA with wife of many years, Bette Lomax Cathcart who he spends much of his time with. The couple has raised two daughters, Marlene Dawsey of WA and Georgia Contaxis of CA. They also have three lovely grandchildren, Daniel, Janell, and Andrew. For his groundbreaking professional accomplishments and his embodiment of the Jackrabbit spirit, we are proud to induct Royal Cathcart into the 2009 LB Poly Football Hall of Fame.

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