NASHVILLE, Tenn. – The Tennessee Titans continual celebration of USA Football Month came to a splendid end Thursday night. The Titans recognized youth football, flag coaches and administrators from across the state whose clubs were awarded USA Football equipment grants.
Representatives from the Memphis Bears, Boys & Girls Club of Rutherford County, Murfreesboro Warriors, Bellevue Athletic Association, and Thurgood Marshall Middle School were invited to the final preseason game against the Minnesota Vikings. The reps were presented a check from USA Football totaling $10,000. The amount represented the total amount of equipment grant dollars given to youth football clubs across the state.
Not only were the administrators and coaches invited for an on-field presentation, they also enjoyed pregame activities and were given enough tickets for their organizations' parents and athletes to enjoy the game.
In addition to the in-game recognition, one lucky team had its game tickets hand delivered by former Titans safety Donnie Nickey. Titans and USA Football administration coordinated with Coach Gardner to surprise his young football team.
"This experience was absolutely incredible for our students, school and community," said Gardner. "The kids and parents were able to enjoy an experience at the game which is something that many of them have not been able to do before."
Gardner continued, "The kids felt appreciated and important when Donnie Nickey brought the tickets to the school. All the kids are bragging about who made it on the Jumbotron and who didn't. All in all as a school, we were truly blessed to be a part of this entire experience."
