Monty Stickles established himself as the San Francisco 49ers' first great tight end, combining sure-handed receiving with ferociously physical blocking that made him one of the most intimidating players of his era. Born on August 16, 1938, in Kingston, New York, Stickles grew up in Poughkeepsie and attended Poughkeepsie High School before earning a scholarship to Notre Dame. Playing as an end for the Fighting Irish from 1957 to 1959, he was a three-year starter who accumulated 42 receptions for 746 yards and twelve touchdowns while also kicking extra points and field goals. As a sophomore in 1957, he was part of the Notre Dame team that upset Oklahoma 7-0, ending their legendary 47-game winning streak. Stickles earned first-team All-American honors in 1958 and consensus All-American recognition in 1959, finishing ninth in the Heisman Trophy voting as a senior.