By Jack Healey
Joe Bellino who won the Heisman Trophy at the US Naval Academy died yesterday at the age of 81. Bellino, a native of Winchester, Massachusetts won the Heisman Trophy in 1960 in a season where he rushed for 834 yards and 15 touchdowns along with 3 touchdown catches. Bellino spent 3 years with the Boston Patriots after completing his service obligation including duty in Vietnam.
Bellino was was a frequent visitor to Rutland. he was great friends with the Joe Coloutti family. He was the guest speaker at the MSJ football banquet before an overflow crowd at the College of St. Joes in 1984.
Joe’s autograph is on the wall of the press box at Rutland’s Alumni Field.
Bob Socci the voice of the New England Patriots and former voice of Navy football had this to say on twitter:
” Very sad news. Along with Roger Staubach and David Robinson, Joe Bellino was one of the three greatest athletes in the modern history of the Naval Academy. Like Roger and David, a first class individual in every way. He became a legend, but always remained a humble son of New England.”