NFL Alumni was Afforded the Opportunity to Inform Congress of their Dual Missions

Feb. 21, 2012 - PRLog -- On Thursday evening, February 16, 2012, the NFL Alumni Board of Directors held a reception in Washington DC at the Capitol building to engage members of Congress in the Alumni’s dual missions.  Since 2009 when Executive Director, George Martin began his tenure, the NFL Alumni has been steadfast in its commitment to youth-oriented charitable activities as well as being a voice for all NFL retired players.

Congressional supporters in attendance were Minority Leader of the House of Representatives, Nancy Pelosi, and former 14-year NFL veteran and current New Jersey Congressman Jon Runyan. Other Congressional attendees were Tennessee Congressman Blackburn, Connecticut Congressman Larson and Texas Congressman Jackson-Lee.  Also, making an appearance and giving his support of the Alumni’s dual missions, was Hall of Fame offensive lineman Jackie Slater.

New Jersey Congressman Runyon remarked, “With my background as a professional football player and given my current work in Congress, I understand the medical care needs of many different organizations including the NFL Alumni.  As current players are treated for concussions and more retired players are treated for diseases such as Alzheimer’s and Dementia, it is my hope that additional brain trauma research and treatment programs for these debilitating diseases can be developed.  George, speaking here tonight, is a great way to better inform my colleagues in Congress about the NFL Alumni’s objectives.”

When Martin took the Executive Director position, NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell, wholeheartedly backed and spearheaded the idea of a sole organization advocating on behalf of all retired players.  Martin spoke to Congress in this new era of “labor peace” describing retired players continued struggles with employment after retirement from the NFL and the need for enhanced health benefits.  NFL retirees represent a microcosm of the United States, in that many are unemployed and in desperate need of medical benefits.   As NFL alumni continue to age, the repetitive blows to their body have made simple tasks difficult.  Degenerative diseases like ALS and Dementia have cut life short for a number of former players who gave up their body to entertain and make the NFL the growing cash cow of the 21st century.

Martin continued saying, “Allow me to reiterate once again, the NFL Alumni is a dedicated advocate for all retired players. The journey to achieve all of the Association’s objectives will be an uphill battle, but there is power in unity. The NFL Alumni stands as “the” organization that holds the genuine interests of all retired NFL players and their families, and I strongly believe that we can and will get our voices heard, if we stand united.”

Ms. Sylvia Mackey, widow of Hall of Fame tight end, John Mackey, was in attendance to lobby for all widows of former players.  The recent Legacy Benefit Fund excluded beneficiaries whose beloved NFL legends passed away before August 4, 2011.

Ms. Mackey expressed her displeasure saying, “These deceased legends worked hard, suffered, and contributed to the brilliant rise and success of the NFL just as much as those who passed away after midnight on August 4, 2011.  It even goes beyond the additional monthly funds that we, beneficiaries, should receive just like everyone else.  It is, also, about the neglect and disrespect that has been dealt to us by this travesty.  As the hurt increases every day, we, beneficiaries, realize more and more that we have been swept under the rug by a steam roller of deception and cruelty.”

The NFL Alumni Association is fully aware of the emotional toll on families, and will tirelessly advocate for all NFL retirees and their families.  To show your support or for more information, please contact NFL Alumni Communications Assistant, Matt Fox at matt.fox@nflalumni.org or 973-210-7191.