Photo By Sgt. Aaron Ellerman | Tens of thousands of people made their way to the Alamodome to watch the U.S. Army...... read more read more
SAN ANTONIO – Tens of thousands of people made their way to the Alamodome to watch the 2016 U.S. Army All-American Bowl Jan. 9, in San Antonio, Texas.
“This was a once in a lifetime opportunity and I’m truly blessed to get the chance to be here,” said Mark Jackson, West team defensive end and Cibolo, Texas native.
For 16 years, the U.S. Army All-American Bowl has been the nation’s premier high school football game, bringing together the top high school players of the Nation, which many have gone on to have successful college and professional careers. The bowl also highlights the top high school band members as well, that have gone on to receive ROTC scholarships.
“The fact that the Army hosts this event is what really sets it apart because its not just business,” said John Lambourne, West team defensive line coach.
These All-American Bowl players and Army Soldiers share key attributes like adaptability and versatility, which enables them to prevail in challenging situations.
“There is a correlation between the Army and football, you’re counting on the man beside you for your own success and ask him to trust you whole-heartedly to accomplish the common goal of winning,” said Shannon Sharpe, captain of the East team and NFL Hall of Fame member, who played for the Denver Broncos and Baltimore Ravens.
The players and musicians have earned the opportunity to wear the Army colors by demonstrating their dedication to team, community and excellence.
“When I heard that Feleipe was going to the bowl game I was all for it because this is something that he will be able to reflect on and enjoy the rest of his life,” said Master Sgt. Don Franks, an Army Reservist with the 290th Military Police Brigade and father of East Team quarterback Feleipe Franks.
Franks said this event is important because it lets the kids realize the importance of the Army values.
The U.S. Army All-American Bowl provides the Army a platform to engage local communities, which supports the development of America’s future leaders and allows Americans the opportunity to better understand how the Army tackles some of the toughest challenges that face our Nation.
The players arrived a week early to practice with their new teammates and engage in local community outreach programs.
“My favorite part of this experience was getting to meet new players coaches and people and build lasting relationships during the past week,” said Jackson.
“I believe it was really great that we had the opportunity to participate in the community engagements throughout the week. I hope it inspired the kids to do more community service on their own and give back a little,” said Lambourne.
This year the West team managed to hold on to an early lead and win the game 37-9, but all of these players have already established themselves as winners through their commitment and dedication to the sport.
| Date Taken: | 01.09.2016 |
| Date Posted: | 01.09.2016 23:45 |
| Story ID: | 185964 |
| Location: | SAN ANTONIO, TX, US |
| Web Views: | 128 |
| Downloads: | 0 |
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