2024 Hula Bowl Hall of Fame Profile: Joe Roth

Established in 2019, the Hula Bowl Hall of Fame is poised to induct five players and a contributor in 2024, joining an esteemed list of honorees that includes legendary coaches such as Bobby Bowden and Steve Spurrier, as well as iconic players like Reggie White, Willie Roaf, Ron Simmons, and Marcus Allen.

Today, we turn the spotlights on the remarkable legacy of Joe Roth, a player who departed the world prematurely but left an indelible mark during his time on Earth. At the Hula Bowl, Roth’s legacy lives on through the annual Joe Roth Award, presented to a player demonstrating exemplary character both on and off the field. Roth, intricately tied to the event and Cal’s storied football history, now takes his place alongside fellow Golden Bears quarterbacks Steve Bartkowski and Vince Ferragamo as a Hall of Fame inductee.

1975: A Stellar Onset

Roth started his collegiate career at Grossmont College where he played his freshman season before transferring to Cal before the 1975 season. In 11 contests, 8 of which he started, Roth showcased his leadership by accumulation 1,8800 yards, 14 touchdowns, and seven interceptions, guiding Cal to an impressive 8-3 record and securing a top-15 finish in the polls.

1976: Courage Amidst Adversity

In Roth’s final collegiate season, the Gold Bears ended with a 5-6 record. Despite a dip in statistical performance, Roth’s stats included 1,789 yards, seven touchdowns, and 18 interceptions. Unbeknownst to many, Roth battled a recurrent bout of melanoma, exhibiting extraordinary courage and gallantry by playing through adversity.

Legacy Beyond the Gridiron

Projected as a top pick in the 1977 NFL Draft, Roth’s life took a tragic turn as cancer recurred. He participated in the Hula Bowl and Japan Bowl during the postseason all-star circuit. Roth passed away on February 19, 1977, at the age of 21. Despite his untimely death, Roth’s impact is enduring—his number 12 remains the only jersey retired by Cal football.

Academic Pursuits and Recognition

Roth was on course to graduate from Cal, earning the prestigious Berkeley Citation, an award bestowed upon individuals whose contributions to the university surpass expectations. NFL commissioner, Pete Rozelle, started the 1977 NFL Draft with a moment of silence for Roth, and Cal football continues to pay tribute to Roth through the annual Joe Roth Award.

Film and Lasting Legacy

A film, “Don’t Quit: The Joe Roth Story,” captures Roth’s on-field feats and lasting legacy. Available on Amazon, Google Play, and iTunes, the film encapsulates the essence of Roth’s enduring impact.

The Hula Bowl and Cal football, through the Joe Roth Award, commemorate a courageous player who transcended the game and inspired generations. Notably, at the 2024 Caribe Royale Orlando Hula Bowl, we are honored to announce that Joe Roth, the nephew, and namesake of the late Joe Roth, will be accepting the Hall of Fame induction on behalf of his uncle, ensuring that Joe Roth’s legacy endures in the hearts of football enthusiasts.