‘Larger than life.’ Former Kentucky All-American, Colts Super Bowl champion Sam Ball dies.
Former Kentucky football All-American Sam Ball died Monday at age 79 in Henderson, his hometown.
“Sam Ball was unique, on and off the football field, with a larger-than-life personality who enriched the lives of everyone he knew,” UK athletics director Mitch Barnhart said in a news release confirming Ball’s death. “Sam’s football accomplishments speak for themselves. After his playing days, he continued to be an active Wildcat, supporting the UK Alumni Association and attending games for as many years as he was physically able.
“In addition, Sam never met a stranger and had a big heart for people, evidenced by his numerous community service activities throughout his life. He will be missed deeply in the Henderson and UK Athletics communities and our deepest condolences are with his family and friends.”
The Henderson County High School graduate played offensive line at Kentucky from 1962 to 1965. As a senior in 1965, Ball was named a consensus first-team All-American.
The Baltimore Colts selected Ball in the first round (No. 15 overall) of the 1966 NFL draft. He appeared in 61 games with 42 starts across five seasons with the Colts. Ball reached the Super Bowl twice. Ball capped his career by winning the 1971 Super Bowl in his final game.
After retiring from football, Ball returned to Kentucky where he enjoyed a career in agriculture sales while managing his own farm. Ball was known for his community service work in Henderson.
Ball was inducted into the UK Athletics Hall of Fame and Kentucky football ring of honor. He had three children, twin daughters, Shannon and Shelly, and son, Shane. Shane also played football at UK from 1991 to 1994.
This story was originally published October 31, 2023 at 7:27 AM.