The Steelers announced they are renaming its youth mentoring program the Jerome Bettis Leadership Award, honoring the impact Bettis has made as a leader and mentor during his Hall of Fame career and beyond. The program recognizes local high school football players who go above and beyond to mentor their teammates both on and off the field.
The program encourages student athletes to serve as mentors, to be engaged in their local communities, and to focus on building their overall character. Now named after one of the Steelers and NFL's most revered players, the renaming of this program demonstrates the Steelers' continued commitment to uplifting the next generation of high school football players across the region.
"I give back because of what I was given. As a young athlete, I benefited from mentorship both on and off the field," said Jerome Bettis. "Throughout my career, I strived to be a positive influence on my teammates and in my community. I firmly believe sports - and athletes in particular — have the power to make a lasting impact on their schools and communities. That's why I'm excited to have my name connected to this award recognizing the peer leadership of high school athletes in the Pittsburgh area."
The Jerome Bettis Leadership Award honors 11 high school football players and 7 girls flag football players from across the region each season. The program is highly competitive. Players must be nominated for the award by a coach, athletic director or principal, and if selected, the winners are recognized on the field during a Steelers home game.
Additionally, each player's school receives a $1,000 donation to their school's football program, which is made possible by the Steelers, The Mentoring Partnership, and co-presenting sponsors of the Steelers Youth Football program, Giant Eagle and the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette.
"Football is more than a game – it's a platform for building leadership and character that extends beyond the playing field," said Dan Rooney, Vice President of Business Development and Strategy for the Steelers. "Jerome Bettis embodies what it means to be a leader on and off the field and the Steelers are honored to recognize young football players contributing to their communities with an award in his name. By doing so, we are highlighting the power of high school football to shape not only better athletes, but better people."
To learn more about the Jerome Bettis Leadership Award and how high school football players qualify
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