California named “Best Football State”
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Wednesday, Dec 03, 2008
By Casey Pearce, Chargers.com
USA Football Executive Director Scott Hallenbeck was on hand at Chargers Park Tuesday to present the Governor’s Award, recognizing California as the America’s “Best Football State”, to Chargers Executive Vice President/Executive Officer A.G. Spanos who accepted the award on behalf of the state.
“This award confirms what we all believe and know, that California is the best football state in the country,” Spanos said. “The Chargers have always been strong supporters of youth football in our community. We appreciate USA Football for recognizing the football accomplishments of our state.”
USA Football, which is chaired by former Chargers quarterback and U.S. Congressman Jack Kemp, is the sport’s national governing body on youth and amateur levels. California earned the Governor’s Award based on a study conducted by George Mason University Center for Sport Management. A range of criteria was measured by state, including the number of high school football programs per capita, the number of college football All-Americans per capita, birth states of 2008 NFL draftees, and other metrics of participation and enthusiasm.
“We went out of our way to identify some innovative criteria when it comes to determining the best football state,” Hallenbeck said. “It’s a true testament to the great football that is played in this state.”
Joining Spanos at the presentation were Chargers linebacker Antwan Applewhite, center Jeremy Newberry, quarterback Billy Volek and wide receiver Kassim Osgood. All four athletes along with long-snapper David Binn have played high school, college and professional football in California.
“Behind me are testaments to the quality of football played in California,” Spanos said. “Football is an integral part of everyday life for so many people in our state. It brings families and communities together. It teaches young people valuable life lessons. From the youngsters and parents in our youth leagues to the high school, college and professional athletes state-wide, this honor just reinforces what we’ve all known, that California has the best athletes and strongest football tradition.”
Casey Pearce, Chargers.com
Chargers Executive Vice President – Executive Officer A.G. Spanos receives the Governor’s Award from USA Football Executive Director Scott Hallenbeck. Joining Spanos in the presentation are (left to right) Chargers linebacker Antwan Applewhite, center Jeremy Newberry, quarterback Billy Volek and wide receiver Kassim Osgood.
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