Story by Cpl. Courtney White, 6th Marine Corps District
ORANGE COUNTY, Calif. - Milan Richard is Recognized for Academic and Athletic Excellence; Selected to Play in Semper Fidelis All-American Bowl.
The United States Marine Corps is recognizing exemplary student athletes across the country through the Semper Fidelis All-American Bowl. Now in its third year, the game will feature 90 student athletes selected from across the country based on their athletic prowess, academic success and embodiment of the Marine Corps values of honor, courage and commitment.
Richard, from Calvary Baptist High School, Savannah, GA, is among those selected to participate in the nationally televised Semper Fidelis All-American Bowl. The game will be broadcast on January 5, 2014, live on Fox Sports 1 at 6 p.m. PST from The StubHub Center in Carson, Calif.
“This is a once in a lifetime experience,” said Richard, a tight end for the East team. “It’s special to have been chosen to play in an All-American game.”
The student athletes selected for the Semper Fidelis All-American Bowl exhibit a drive similar to Richard in that they have more than outstanding athletic ability – they also exemplify youth leadership and are committed to building life skills both on and off the field.
“I hope to learn from the great coaches and the Marines,” said Richard. “I also hope to learn from the other players. The diversity of skill level is incredible and it will be great to learn from them.”
The Semper Fidelis All-American Bowl is the culmination of the Marine Corps’ Semper Fidelis Football Program, which also includes an All-American Selection Tour. Through the program, the Marine Corps purposefully engages with well-rounded student athletes to share leadership lessons that will enable future success.
Richard, who is already committed to Clemson, especially appreciates the Marine aspect of the training.
“I hope to learn from the honor and courage aspect of the training,” said Richard. “I plan to take on whatever challenges the Marines pose and also appreciate the brotherhood of the game. It’s a great opportunity to be with guys from all over the country that you will be playing with in college.”