Rufus, a former professional football player, made a lasting impact on the sport during his illustrious career. He played for the Seattle Seahawks of the National Football League, showcasing his exceptional skills on the field.
Rufus's most notable achievements, however, came during his seven-year tenure with the Hamilton Tigercats of the Canadian Football League. He broke a record that had stood for 28 years, setting a new all-time CFL total yardage record of 2,896 in the 1984 season. This remarkable feat earned him widespread recognition and accolades.
The Hamilton Tigercats honored Rufus as the 1980's player of the decade, and a plaque bearing his name now resides outside the Tigercats stadium in Hamilton, Ontario. He was also voted one of the 75 greatest Tigercats players of all time, a testament to his enduring legacy.
After retiring from professional football in 1986, Rufus pursued another passion of his – acting. He took a year of acting lessons before deciding to take his craft more seriously. This new chapter in his life led to numerous opportunities, solidifying his status as a versatile individual with a range of talents.
Rufus's contributions to the world of sports were further recognized when he was inducted into the Virginia State University Sports Hall of Fame in 2008. The university, where he attended, proudly celebrated his achievements.
In May 2014, Rufus was inducted into The Gastonia County Sports Hall of Fame in his hometown of Gastonia, North Carolina. This prestigious honor marked a triumphant return to his roots, as he was celebrated for his outstanding achievements in the world of sports.
