Initiatives
The I Play Clean™ program. Started in 2007, this program encourages teens to train hard, eat well and play with attitude, instead of resorting to illegal performance-enhancing drugs (PEDs). About 400,000 teens report experimenting; one-third are young women. Our programs provide a small dose of education to teens, parents, coaches and fans, followed by good advice about training and nutrition. The program has been endorsed by more than 100 high profile athletes and coaches, and receives support from the NFL and NFL Players Research and Education Foundation.
The Butkus Center for Cardiovascular Wellness. The Center is focused on preventive health care among adults, including heart screenings for NFL retirees through the NFL Player Care Foundation and for the nation’s first responders. It includes a partnership with a premier Heart and Vascular Center named after Mr. Butkus in Orange County, Calif.
The Butkus Award®. Started in 1985, the Butkus Award honors football linebackers at three levels of play – pro, college and high school. It is second only to the Heisman in prestige and name recognition. Watch list coverage begins in July, followed by semi-finalists in October, finalists in November, winners in December and national television special in January. The Butkus Award is sanctioned by the NCFAA.
The Butkus Center for Cardiovascular Wellness. The Center is focused on preventive health care among adults, including heart screenings for NFL retirees through the NFL Player Care Foundation and for the nation’s first responders. It includes a partnership with a premier Heart and Vascular Center named after Mr. Butkus in Orange County, Calif.
The Butkus Award®. Started in 1985, the Butkus Award honors football linebackers at three levels of play – pro, college and high school. It is second only to the Heisman in prestige and name recognition. Watch list coverage begins in July, followed by semi-finalists in October, finalists in November, winners in December and national television special in January. The Butkus Award is sanctioned by the NCFAA.