Photo By Staff Sgt. Jonathan Fernandez | Nate Boyer, a former Special Forces Soldier and a San Francisco native, shares his...... read more read more
SAN ANTONIO - The U.S. Army All-American Bowl officially welcomed the All-American players and band members, academy coaches, and their families Jan. 7 at the Grand Hyatt Hotel during the Welcome Reception.
Each year, the U.S. Army All-American Bowl selects 90 of the Nation’s top high school football stars, along with 125 top high school marching band musicians and color guard members.
“I’m really impressed and surprised to see how large of an event it is,” said Lt. Gen. Kenneth R. Dahl, the commanding general of U.S. Army Installation Management Command and native of Peekskill, New York. “I think one of the most important parts is that they’re from all around the country.”
Through its history, the Bowl has engaged with more than 1,600 schools nationwide.
“This event really helps us [the Army] to connect with the American people,” he said.
The welcome reception included guest talks by Doug Berman of All-American Games, and Nate Boyer, a native of San Francisco and a concert by the Army Entertainment Team and DJ Crespo.
Boyer became a Special Forces communications sergeant upon hearing his call to duty. After serving several years on active-duty, he followed his dream to go to school and play football for the Texas Longhorns with little experience in football. His motivational speech urged the All-Americans to “use this to propel yourself forward.”
“Talent will only take you so far,” said Boyer. “What you put in is what you get out.”
The U.S. Army All-American Bowl showcases the many options and opportunities available through Army service. Whether it’s active duty or Reserve, all of these components make up a winning organization -- an organization that makes a difference at home and abroad.
“It’s just great to be part of such a legacy,” said Matt Farniok, a right guard for the All-American Bowl East team and native of Sioux Falls, South Dakota. “There’s nothing more honorable than to play in front of the U.S. Army wearing their colors.”
| Date Taken: | 01.07.2016 |
| Date Posted: | 01.08.2016 20:57 |
| Story ID: | 185946 |
| Location: | SAN ANTONIO, TX, US |
| Hometown: | PEEKSKILL, NY, US |
| Hometown: | SAN FRANCISCO, CA, US |
| Hometown: | SIOUX FALLS, SD, US |
| Web Views: | 32 |
| Downloads: | 0 |
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