California has given football legendary contributors and players like Pete Rozelle, Marcus Allen and Frank Gifford, so it is only fitting that it be rewarded with a little something in return. On December 2, it was the recipient of a national distinction - the 2008 USA Football Governor's Award, recognizing California as the country's "Best Football State."
In the award's third year, California edged out Texas, which took home the trophy the previous year. Mississippi was the award's first winner in 2006. Rounding out the study's top five football states in 2008 are Florida, Ohio and Pennsylvania, respectively.
USA Football Executive Director Scott Hallenbeck proudly presented the award to San Diego Chargers Vice President and Executive Officer A.G. Spanos at the Chargers' practice facility. Several Chargers players were also on hand to join Hallenbeck and Spanos for the award presentation including David Binn, Jeremy Newberry, Kassim Osgood and Billy Volek. All four Chargers are representatives of the state of California, having played high school, college and professional football in the Golden State.
"Football is an integral part of everyday life for so many people in our state," Spanos said. "It brings families and communities together. It teaches young people valuable life lessons. From the youngsters and parents in our youth leagues to the high school, college and professional athletes state-wide, this honor just reinforces what we've all known, that California has the best athletes and strongest football tradition."
Endowed by the NFL and NFLPA in 2002, USA Football is the sport's national governing body on youth and amateur levels. NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell and former standout NFL running back Brian Mitchell, among others dedicated to the sport, serve on the independent non-profit's board of directors. Jack Kemp, former U.S. Congressman and pro quarterback, is USA Football's chairman.
California secured the top spot earning the 2008 USA Football Governor's Award based on the findings from a study conducted by the George Mason University Center for Sport Management. A wide range of criteria was measured for each state, including the number of high school football programs per capita, the number of college football All-Americans per capita, birth states of 2008 NFL draftees and various other metrics of participation and enthusiasm.
"The Governor's Award recognizes everything that's great about football - the fans' passion, the players' focus and the commitment of the coaches and administrators who help young people harness the skills necessary to play at their highest possible level," USA Football's Hallenbeck said. "This is a team sport of the mind, body and heart. We are proud to honor California for everything it gives to this game."
