THE PRIDE OF PASADENA, CALIFORNIA
THE JACKIE ROBINSON STATUTE
DEDICATED NOVEMBER 29, 2017 - THE ROSE BOWL
GO VISIT!
THE PRIDE OF PASADENA, CALIFORNIA
THE JACKIE ROBINSON STATUTE
DEDICATED NOVEMBER 29, 2017 - THE ROSE BOWL
GO VISIT!
Pasadena Sports Hall of Fame
Bates was honored for his exploits on the field by being named Pacific League Player of the Year, All-CIF, All-Southern California and All-State. He was also invited to play in several all-star games that invited the best players from the area and state.
After football season, with a scholarship to the University of Colorado already secured, Bates took to the track at the Sunkist Invitational at the old Forum in Inglewood. In the Invitational Football 60 meter dash, Cleo won with an impressive effort, beating the likes of Steve Broussard, Michael Roberts and .
During his senior season in track and field, Mr. Bates was one of the favorites to win the state title in the 100 meters. He led his 400 relay team to a victory at the Arcadia Invitational over the Hawthorne HS, who had the fasted time in the nation.
One day at the suggestion of renowned Pasadena High School track and field coach Arthur Large, Cleo was asked to try the long jump at a meet and realized he was a gifted jumper. From sheer talent, Cleo won Pacific League and CIF titles in the long jump and placed 2nd at the state finals.
Cleo suffered a knee injury in Colorado that ended his football career, but he will forever be remembered for his talents.
Honors
1982
Rio Hondo League Player of the Year
All-CIF
All-State
In his senior year, the 3 year varsity tailback amassed over 2,500 rushing and had 20 touchdowns. He led all area runners in yardage from scrimmage in 1984 while becoming one of the most sought after recruits in Southern California.
At only 165 pounds, Mr. Bates possessed amazing speed, agility and durability as he carried the ball on most plays.
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