This week in Cambria County history.
Born in Johnstown on December 23, 1948. Known for football.
Jack Ham was born in Johnstown, Pennsylvania, on December 23, 1948. He attended Bishop McCort High School before completing a post-graduate year at Massanutten Military Academy. Ham played college football at Penn State, where he was a three-year starter and an All-American. He joined the Pittsburgh Steelers in 1971 and played linebacker for 12 seasons. Ham was known for his speed, awareness, and ability to defend against the pass. He helped the Steelers win four Super Bowls. His career included 32 interceptions and 25 sacks. He was selected for eight Pro Bowls and named All-Pro six times. Ham was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1988 and the College Football Hall of Fame in 1990. After retiring, he worked in radio and became a sports analyst. He is also part owner of the Johnstown Tomahawks. His achievements connect his football legacy back to his hometown.