NFL awards Malcolm Butler’s alma mater with Wilson Golden Football
Published 10:24 am Friday, January 29, 2016
- The NFL awarded Vicksburg High School with a commemorative WIlson Golden Football as a part of its Super Bowl Honor Roll, which honors players and coaches who’ve positvely impacted the game and contributed to Super Bowl history.
While he won’t be participating in this year’s Super Bowl, Malcolm Butler’s interception against the Seattle Seahawks last year will be remembered as an historic play.
The National Football League began its Super Bowl Honor Roll program, which awards the high schools and communities of players who’ve contributed to Super Bowl history and have impacted the game. Players’ alma maters received a commemorative Wilson Golden Football delivered in black and gold packaging, a stand and a letter.
“It’s very rewarding to see the accomplishments of a young man that came from where he came from and to work hard and persevere through it all, to bring home a Super Bowl and be our mvp, is great,” Vicksburg football coach Marcus Rogers said. “It sheds a positive light on Vicksburg High School.”
The NFL Foundation will also give schools an opportunity to apply for grants up to $5,000 to help grow and support its football programs.
Since winning the Super Bowl, Butler has been celebrated in his hometown with a parade and a date dedicated in his honor. Last year, Butler hosted his inaugural football camp for boys in grades one through eight at no cost to the parents.
“A kid from Vicksburg, Mississippi on the biggest stage,” Rogers said. “You’re talking about a guy who’s been to the Oscars, received an award at the ESPYs and then in a couple of weeks you’ll see him on the track. It’s surreal at times but he knows what he has to do to take it to the next level.”
During a New England Patriots’ bye-week, Butler returned back to Vicksburg to sign autographs for the students. Rogers said Butler has personally donated to Vicksburg’s football program to help with better equipment and exposure.
The Patriots will be the most honored organization with 256 former and current players and coaches’ alma maters to receive a Wilson Golden Football.
Over 2,000 high schools will be recognized honoring over 3,000 coaches and players.
There will be 17 Super Bowl Honor Roll schools featured on CBS This Morning on Thursdays during the 2016 season beginning Sept. 10.
Rogers said when his players see a professional football player who walked and played on the same field they have, it makes them believe.
“This guy was right here where you are right now. Every time he comes back in town he talks to them, which is a real good thing,” Rogers said. “We enjoy Malcolm, we love Malcolm and we can’t wait till he gets back.”