Presenters

Bart Oates

A former center for the USFL Philadelphia Starrs, New York Giants and San Francisco 49ers. He helped the Giants to two Super Bowl titles, and later, was the starting center for the 49ers in Super Bowl XXIX. He was honored to be selected and played in five Pro Bowls and was recognized as one of the most durable and reliable players of his day. In spite of the extremely physical nature of football, he never missed a game in his 14 seasons playing professional football. As the starting center for 14 seasons professionally and 3 years collegiately, he played a team roll without much attention but always looked to contribute to the success of the team in any way he could. He has taken this philosophy with him in his various endeavors since his playing days to help create a team environment. Wanting to stay productive during the long NFL offseason and with a plan for his post playing career, Mr. Oates took law classes during his off seasons, graduating with honors from Seton Hall Law School.

He attended college at Brigham Young University and was an All-American while there and received his bachelor's degree in accounting. He played in the USFL for the Philadelphia Starrs for three years. He was all-league three years and his team won the league championship twice. Signing with the NY Giants, Mr. Oates was named to the All-Pro team twice and played in three Pro Bowls. He joined the 49ers in 1994, Mr. Oates was selected by his peers to the Pro Bowl two more times.

Going to Law School in offseason while playing professional football allowed him to graduate, pass the bar and being practicing. with the law firm of Ribis, Graham, & Curtin in Morristown NJ where he focused on litigation and real estate tax appeal work. After retiring from football, he both practiced law and worked in the real estate industry where he was a real estate broker. NY Football Jets, American Express, Curtis Wright, iQor, Apos, Fitness and Wellness Professional Services are a partial list of his clients.

He has been President of the NFL Alumni Association since late 2017; a position that allows him to advocate for former players and address physical, mental and career issues that affect former professional football players. He has worked closely with many companies to provide benefits and opportunities for NFL Alumni members.

In addition, Mr. Oates maintains an active role in many services to the community and his Church, including past Chairman of the Hall of Fame of New Jersey, and supporter of the Boy Scouts of America. He was a Board member of the NY/NJ Super Bowl Host Committee, Super Bowl 50. He also served as the Bishop (lay pastor) of the Morristown NJ congregation for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints. He and his wife, Michelle have three children and four grandchildren and reside in Harding Township NJ.