I was thirteen years old
when the Gamblers took to the field for their inaugural campaign in 1984. As a resident of nearby Deer Park, Texas, I distinctly
remember the excitement surrounding the new team. The NFL Oilers were struggling to rebuild after a horrendous 3-13 season,
and the MLB Astros were playing their typical .500 ball. Even the Rockets of the NBA were finishing a less-than-stellar
season with a woeful 29-53 record.
Jim Kelly and his crew would have to save us.
The Gamblers did not disappoint, as fans everywhere were treated to some of the most dynamic
football ever played. The USFL was a league run by team owners with a "take no prisoners" mentality, which
was naturally reflected on the field by the players as well. When it came to pulling out the stops and letting
the pigskin fly, the Gamblers were among the best. But as all good things must end, the USFL closed its doors after the 1985
season, leaving a void in the hearts of countless loyal fans.
Two years, thirty-eight games and several pro records
later, the Gamblers walked off the gridiron forever.
But while the Houston Gamblers and USFL
may be long gone, they are certainly not forgotten. Several websites have been created since the mid-ninties to honor the
United States Football League, and collectors continue to eagerly search the web and newspaper classifieds for all kinds
of memorabilia relating to their beloved league and teams. In early 2008, I decided it was time to create my own site dedicated
specifically to my hometown heroes, the Houston Gamblers.
After graduating from Deer Park High School in 1989,
I spent six years in the Army and later enjoyed several years as a securities broker/teacher after moving to Oregon. A graduate
of the Oregon Police Academy in 2001, I also spent time on the side as a police officer, hanging up the belt for the last
time in 2007. I now work for a large retail company, and am the proud creator of Houston-Gamblers.com.
Now that you've read my story, head over to "Post Your Story" and tell us yours!
Anthony
Nunez
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