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2009
Bruschi lunch contest open
in Weymouth
Schools, company team up to raise money via credit card purchases
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The Patriot Ledger
Posted Feb 05, 2009 @ 06:28 AM
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WEYMOUTH — The school department and a fundraising company have launched a “Win
Lunch with Tedy Bruschi” contest.
The contest is designed to encourage residents to sign up for the OurKidsWin!
program, in which participating businesses pay rebates to the school system for
each purchase made with credit or debit cards registered with OurKidsWin!.
The winner will have lunch with Tedy Bruschi, the New England Patriots
linebacker, on Feb. 28. The lunch is sponsored by Papa Gino’s.
To enter, residents with children in the school system must register their debit
or credit cards by Feb. 19 at www.ourkidswin.com/tedy. Members receive one
contest entry for each valid credit or debit card registered.
More than 800 Weymouth families have registered credit and debit cards with
OurKidsWin!, the organization reported. All credit card information is encrypted
and secured by a system similar to what banks use.
Complete rules for the contest can be found at www.ourkidswin.com/tedy/rules.
Enrollment is free. No purchase is necessary to enter or win the contest.
Winners will be announced Feb. 20.
In addition to Weymouth, the contest is also open to students in Medford, Hudson
and West Boylston, which also have implemented the OurKidsWin! program.
Weymouth launched its program this past September and will receive its first
check in late February for money raised through Dec. 31. The payment is expected
to exceed $10,000.
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Copyright © 2009 GateHouse Media, Inc. Some Rights Reserved.
Original content available for non-commercial use under a Creative Commons
license, except where noted.
Bruschi lunch contest open in Weymouth - Quincy, MA - The Patriot Ledger
Venerable
Patriots linebacker Tedy Bruschi participated in an NFL.com chat on Tuesday
afternoon. As usual, Bruschi was open, entertaining and interesting in the chat
in which he fielded questions from fans.
Here are a few highlights and a full transcript from NFL.com is here:
On the Bills' acquisition of Terrell Owens:
"It affects the way defenses will be played against the Bills' offense before he
even steps on the field. What's more important is how much of a leader he wants
to be."
On the adjustments the Patriots will have to make without linebacker Mike Vrabel:
"We're going to be able to do it. But it's going to be very difficult. Vrabes
did everything for us. I'm going to miss him."
On the left knee injury (medial collateral ligament) that kept him out of the
final three games of the 2008 season:
"My knee is doing great. I definitely am excited about being back next season.
We've got more business to take care of."
Bruschi chats about Pats - Reiss' Pieces - Boston.com
Medford
-
After trying to get Tedy Bruschi’s autograph for seven years at football
training camps, Medford resident Omar Hererra recently received something even
better — a birthday lunch with the Patriots linebacker.
When Medford resident Michael Harvey recently won an OurKidsWin! contest for him
and his daughter, Kelly to meet Bruschi, he knew nobody would appreciate the
opportunity better than his brother-in-law, Hererra. But he didn’t give him the
honor right away.
“I made him wait a few days,” said Harvey, tall and bearded with a mischievous
grin. “Actually, I made him wait a week. I know. I’m bad.”
Hererra said he’s one of the New England Patriots’ biggest fans. With an entire
room dedicated to the team and no fewer than 11 posters, Hererra goes to
training camps four to five times a year hoping to get autographs.
When he heard Harvey and Kelly would actually be meeting one of his favorite
players, he’ll admit he was a bit envious at first.
“I said, ‘I’m going to ask you a favor,’” Hererra said. “Take my jersey and ask
him to sign it.”
For the occasion, Hererra bought an authentic Patriots jersey for nearly $300.
Nothing less would be worthy of such a signature.
Meanwhile, Kelly couldn’t contain her excitement when she found out about the
lunch.
“I’m home and my dad calls my mom and she starts flipping out,” said Kelly, 11.
“She said, ‘You just won the contest!’ When I found out I was jumping around the
house. I don’t usually win anything so it was a freak thing.”
Harvey was one of two winners chosen at random from all entries in the “Win
Lunch with Tedy Bruschi” contest that was run in Medford, Hudson, West Boylston
and Weymouth in order to encourage residents to enroll in their respective
community’s OurKidsWin! school fundraising programs.
The program takes a fraction of each sale between a registered card and
participating local businesses and gives it to the local school system. Gene
Cornfield, a representative from OurKidsWin!, said Medford could raise more than
$250,000 a year in this way when things get moving.
After about a week of making Hererra wait, Harvey finally gave his
brother-in-law a call.
“He called and said, ‘I’m going to give you the best birthday present ever,’”
Hererra recalled. “‘You’re going with Kelly to see Tedy Bruschi.’”
Hererra couldn’t contain himself. He and Harvey shared a laugh. Harvey admitted
he is not the biggest sports fan out there and he knew his brother-in-law would
appreciate the opportunity more.
“I was driving and he almost made me crash,” Harvey remembered.
On Feb. 28, Hererra turned 29 years old. On that same day, Harvey dropped
Hererra and Kelly off at Gillette Stadium in Foxborough.
“I went down there with them to make sure it all worked out,” Harvey said,
nonchalantly. “Then I went to go see a movie down the street. Blew two hours.”
At Gillette, Kelly was overwhelmed.
“It was huge,” Kelly said. “It had TVs and couches. It looked so sophisticated.”
Cornfield met the two and brought them inside, where they toured the giant,
empty stadium getting an insiders view. Finally they were brought to where their
picture would be taken with Bruschi.
“When I was waiting in line to get my picture taken and I was approaching him, I
couldn’t feel my legs,” said Hererra. “I was walking on air. When I put my arm
around his back, it was like he was made of solid wood.”
After the photo, Kelly and Hererra sat down with Bruschi for lunch. Hererra said
it was a bit difficult to remember exactly what they served at Gillette, because
he didn’t feel much like eating.
The two said their lunch got off to a bit of a dramatic start when news came to
them about a teammate being traded to the Kansas City Chiefs.
“The minute we sat down he found out his best friend Mike Vrabel was flying to
Kansas City,” said Kelly. “He was very caring. He made it like, ‘we’re not just
a team we’re a family.’”
Kelly and Hererra recalled talking to Bruschi about his team, what it’s like
playing for the Patriots and his favorite games. One of Bruschi’s favorite games
was the Super Bowl against the St. Louis Rams in 2002, Hererra said.
“I was going to ask him what his favorite pizza topping was since he owns part
of Papa Gino’s,” said Kelly. “But I forgot.”
A copy of the photo they took is in Kelly’s school binder and she said it is the
envy of her classmates.
Hererra said he didn’t want to leave, but sooner or later the time came. He got
his jersey signed and will be placing the whole thing in a large glass frame.
“The next day we were going to cut the cake,” said Hererra. “I’m like, ‘I don’t
care; I got what I want.’ That was the biggest birthday present I’ve ever had in
my life.”
Medfordites win lunch with Patriot Tedy Bruschi - Medford, MA - Medford
Transcript
Share:ShareThis Print Comment Back Home Bruschi disappointed to see Vrabel go
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By Glen Farley
ENTERPRISE STAFF WRITER
Posted Mar 05, 2009 @ 12:48 AM
Last update Mar 05, 2009 @ 02:00 AM
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The initial shock may have worn off.
Veteran Patriots linebacker Tedy Bruschi’s disappointment in the deal that sent
Mike Vrabel to the Kansas City Chiefs has not.
“Sometimes with me especially — especially with Vrabes, our relationship — my
personal feelings get involved,” Bruschi said during a telephone interview on
WEEI’s ‘Dale and Holley Show’ on Wednesday. “Why would one of my best friends
throughout my entire career, why don’t we need a guy like that? In my own
selfish way, we hung out together. There goes my boy, you know, going off to
somewhere else.
“So I get a little upset about that and then I wonder what happened? How come he
couldn’t stay here?”
The 33-year-old Vrabel’s eight seasons as a starting linebacker in New England —
a span that saw the Patriots win three Super Bowls — came to an abrupt end last
Friday when he was informed he’d been traded to Kansas City as part of a deal
that, one day later, the football world learn included quarterback Matt Cassel.
In return, the Patriots received the Chiefs’ second-round pick in next month’s
draft.
“The solution for both of them (Vrabel and team) was for him to move on,” said
Bruschi. “Why? I still don’t know. Because losing Vrabes, the team completely
changes.
“But we’ve had big changes before. To me, this is one of the biggest for me as a
linebacker, you know, seeing Mike Vrabel go. But we’ve coped with changes before
(and I) think we’ll be able to overcome.”
According to Bruschi, Vrabel’s value transcended what he brought to the Patriots
on the playing field.
“He had so many hats that he could wear,” said Bruschi. “It was unbelievable how
he could play a coach. He could make on-field adjustments. He could be a leader
on the field.
“He could be the one that was making the plays that won the game whether it be
on defense or offense when he was catching touchdowns as a tight end and then go
into the locker room or during stretch lines and say something that was so
absolutely hilarious it had the whole team’s morale sort of boosted and raised
and sort of lighten(ed) the atmosphere in the locker room.
“He did so many things along with being our player representative along with
being on the executive committee. He did so many things, not just for us but for
the NFL. Kansas City, I hope they realize what they’re getting, because they’re
a lucky organization.”
Bruschi, who will turn 36 this offseason, made it clear that he intends to
return for a 14th season in New England.
“I’m under contract,” said Bruschi, “and in the process of training and getting
ready for the offseason program and training camp.”
Decision Taylor made:
In a move that became inevitable once the Patriots signed former Jacksonville
Jaguars running back Fred Taylor to a two-year contract last Friday, LaMont
Jordan is moving on after one season in New England.
The Broncos announced the signing on Wednesday night.
Jordan is following the foot steps of former Patriots Jabar Gaffney and Lonie
Paxton, agreeing to a two-year, $2.5 million deal (according to Denver
television state KDVR) to play for Patriots offensive coordinator-turned-Broncos
head coach Josh McDaniels.
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Copyright © 2009 GateHouse Media, Inc. Some Rights Reserved.
Original content available for non-commercial use under a Creative Commons
license, except where noted.
Bruschi disappointed to see Vrabel go - Brockton, MA - The Enterprise
Malden - Student athletes
from 19 high schools throughout New England were honored as “Game Time” players
for their teams, schools and communities, at a luncheon with New England
Linebacker Tedy Bruschi on Saturday, Feb. 28 at Gillette Stadium.
Malden High School’s Mike Gilardi was among the winners.
Each student athlete received a photo with Bruschi and spent some quality time
with the linebacker. In addition to dining with Bruschi, students were able to
ask Bruschi questions about his achievements both on and off the field.
Malden High School athlete honored as ‘Game Time’ winner at luncheon with New
England Linebacker Tedy Bruschi - Malden, MA - Malden Observer
HUDSON - Hudson High School’s Michael Ahearn was among students from 19 New
England schools who had lunch with New England Patriots linebacker Tedy Bruschi
at Gillette Stadium Feb. 28, as part of Papa Gino’s “Game Time” event for
outstanding student-athletes. Each student received a photo with Bruschi and
spent some quality time with the linebacker. In addition to dining with Bruschi,
students were able to ask Bruschi questions about his achievements both on and
off the field.
Hudson High student meets Tedy Bruschi - Hudson, MA - Hudson Sun
Press Release Source: AGA Medical Corporation
AGA Medical Corporation Launches Third Web-Based Stroke Education and Awareness
Video Featuring Professional Football Player Tedy Bruschi
Wednesday March 25, 2009, 9:00 am EDT
Buzz up! Print MINNEAPOLIS, March 25 /PRNewswire/ -- AGA Medical Corporation
today launched the third in a series of web-based stroke education and awareness
videos featuring Tedy Bruschi, a professional football player who suffered a
stroke in February 2005, subsequently recovered and returned to his career. The
new video features Tedy describing his personal experiences of recovering from a
stroke. The video is a continuation of Tedy's story that began with the first
and second videos in the series, released in January and February. It will be
followed by additional videos posted monthly on the AGA Medical website that
describe Tedy's firsthand experience as a stroke victim, survivor and prevention
champion.
"I hope that by sharing my experiences through the video series people will come
to understand the important risk factors for stroke, learn to quickly identify
the warning signs and be better prepared should they themselves or a loved one,
colleague or neighbor experience a stroke," said Tedy Bruschi. "I know firsthand
the emotional and physical challenges that experiencing a stroke can lead to. My
hope is that the content of the program developed with AGA Medical may help
other stroke survivors achieve a positive recovery. That is why this effort is
so important to me."
AGA Medical announced its partnership with Tedy Bruschi in December 2008 with
the release of a video in which Tedy describes the warning signs of stroke. In
January, the national stroke awareness program's next initiative - a series of
five inspirational videos of Tedy discussing his personal experience with stroke
and educating others about warning signs - kicked off with the release of a
video describing Tedy's life prior to his stroke. Each month through May, AGA
Medical Corporation and Tedy will team up to release a new video. Visitors to
the www.amplatzer.com/strokeawareness website will be able to view all videos
released to date. AGA Medical Corporation will launch additional initiatives
throughout 2009 to build upon this comprehensive stroke education, awareness and
prevention campaign.
"We believe that sharing Tedy's story of stroke recovery is an important way to
help stroke survivors," said John Barr, chief executive officer of AGA Medical.
"As we develop our stroke education and awareness program, Tedy's positive
outlook and persistent positive attitude throughout his recovery period serves
as the ultimate motivation for those recovering from stroke."
Stroke, defined as a sudden injury to the brain caused by a blood vessel
bursting or becoming blocked, is the nation's number 3 cause of death behind
heart disease and cancer. The American Heart Association reports that each year,
about 700,000 Americans suffer from a stroke. One-third of stroke victims are
under 65, and even children can suffer a stroke.
About Tedy Bruschi
Coming off the success of winning his 3rd league championship and playing in the
annual league all-star game in February of 2005, Tedy unexpectedly experienced a
stroke. On the advice of his physician, a device from AGA Medical was prescribed
and implanted as part of Tedy's treatment. After several months of extensive
rehabilitation and recovery, Tedy was medically cleared to resume playing
football less than a year later. Today, in addition to his continued success on
the field, Tedy dedicates a considerable part of his time off the field toward
raising stroke awareness and funds for stroke research.
To learn more about Tedy and the warning signs of stroke, visit
www.amplatzer.com/strokeawareness.
Clinical Trial Underway
AGA Medical is currently conducting a multicenter, randomized clinical study,
known as the RESPECT trial, to investigate whether closure of a congenital heart
defect using an AGA Medical device is superior to current standard of care
treatment in the prevention of a particular type of stroke. For more information
on the clinical trial and the warning signs of stroke, visit www.amplatzer.com.
About AGA Medical Corporation
AGA Medical Corporation, based in Plymouth, Minnesota, is a leader in developing
interventional devices for the minimally invasive treatment of cardiovascular
defects and peripheral vascular disease. Founded in 1995 by Dr. Kurt Amplatz, a
former professor and researcher at the University of Minnesota Department of
Radiology, AGA Medical develops and commercializes devices for a range of
structural heart repair and circulatory conditions. Several of these devices
have been major innovations in the treatment of the most common congenital
"holes in the heart", such as atrial septal defects and patent foramen ovales.
More than 700 articles have been published in medical literature that support
the benefits of AGA Medical devices, including improved patient outcomes,
reduced length of stay, and accelerated recovery times for the patient. AGA
Medical devices have received regulatory approval and are marketed in 101
countries. For more information, visit
www.amplatzer.com.
AGA Medical Corporation Launches Third Web-Based Stroke Education and Awareness
Video Featuring Professional Football Player Tedy Bruschi - Yahoo! Finance
Val's teams up with Tedy
BY PHYLLIS BOOTH PBOOTH@HOLDENLANDMARK.
(L. to r.) Susan Lauring, Tedy Bruschi, Sue Manero and Nick Manero.
New England Patriots linebacker Tedy Bruschi has more than one team.
Princeton resident Susan Manero, her nephew Nicholas Manero of Holden and nephew
Adam of San Francisco, Susan Lauring from Worcester and her daughter Maria from
Alabama, are all running the Boston Marathon on April 20 on Tedy's Team.
The effort is getting a boost from Val James, owner of Val's restaurant in
Holden.
"Val has always been an ardent supporter of Tedy's Team and sponsor of the
American Stroke Association," said Sue Manero. "People can come to Val's on
March 25 from 5-9 p.m. and meet members of Tedy's Team and purchase tickets for
the raffle."
Among the raffle items are an authentic football shirt and two footballs signed
by Bruschi, and two copies of his book "Never Give Up." The book talks about the
stroke he suffered in 2005 at the age of 31, his recovery and return to the NFL.
Raffle tickets for the book and the footballs are $10 each; tickets for the
shirt raffle are $20 apiece.
"If people are looking for signed Tedy Bruschi memorabilia, we've got it," said
Manero. "If we have enough interest we'll raffle off two shirts and three
footballs."
This year's Boston Marathon is the fourth for Sue, the fifth for Lauring, and
the first for the other family members. "It's kind of cool, two old ladies
running with these young kids," Manero said. She and Lauring are cross-training
during the week and running up to 20 miles on Saturdays. "It's been kind of hard
this winter because of the snow and ice storm debris along the sides of the
roads," she said.
"I'm trying to raise $5,000 for Tedy's Team," Manero said. "Once you're selected
to run on Tedy's Team you commit to raising at least $3,000."
Of the 155 people who applied to be on the team, 43 were selected. "Tedy likes
to keep a small team and likes to get to know each member personally," she said.
People can come to the event and make a donation in any amount, or purchase
tickets for the raffles. Anyone who wants to sponsor a runner can visit
tedysteam2009. kintera.org/boston/, and after the backslash type in the name of
the person you want to sponsor. All donations are tax deductible.
Since recovering from his stroke, Bruschi has committed himself to being an
advocate, spokesperson, and inspiration for stroke survivors. He worked with the
American Stroke Association to create "Tedy's Team," a group of runners raising
money for the organization and racing in the Boston Marathon and the Falmouth
Road Race.
Tedy's Team also raises awareness of stroke and recognition of its warning
signs.
Val's teams up with Tedy | www.thelandmark.com | Landmark
Bruschi contributing to
auction for stroke victim
April 6, 2009
Tedy Bruschi survived a stroke and returned to the football field. Now, he is
hoping to help a fellow stroke survivor return to his job.
As part of an extensive charity effort for well-known football writer Paul
Zimmerman (more commonly known as Dr. Z), a lunch with Bruschi and Sports
Illustrated writer Peter King is being auctioned off, with the minimum bid
starting at $3,000.
King details the auction in his Monday Morning Quarterback column.
The auction is part of a larger event that aims to raise enough money for
Zimmerman — who suffered three strokes in November and has not yet recovered his
abilities to read, write or speak — to enter into a six-week program at the
University of Michigan.
The event will take place on May 18 in West Orange, N.J. and will include a
roundtable discussion with New York Jets coach Rex Ryan and New York Giants
coach Tom Coughlin. The auction portion of the night also includes “The Cowboy
Trip of a Lifetime,” which gets you airfare, two nights’ lodging, tickets to a
Cowboys game in their new stadium, an invite to the team’s Saturday walkthrough,
and potential meetings with a player and owner Jerry Jones. That package has a
minimum bid of $10,000.
King writes that bidding information will be made available in the coming weeks.
“The goal,” King said, ”simply, is to get Dr. Z back online and back giving you
the kind of insightful, no-holds-barred NFL coverage that has made him so much a
part of so many fans’ lives.”
Bruschi contributing to auction for stroke victim - NESN Newswire - NESN.com
Wise old Tedy Bruschi back
for more
By Karen Guregian and John Tomase / Patriots Notebook | Wednesday, June 3, 2009
| http://www.bostonherald.com | N.E. Patriots
Photo by Matt Stone
FOXBORO - Tedy Bruschi [stats] knows he’s the oldest man left standing on
defense. He knows when he looks around him, many of his friends and many of the
players he’s won multiple Super Bowl rings with such as Mike Vrabel, Larry Izzo
[stats] and Rodney Harrison [stats] are gone.
But he’s still here for at least one more season. When he reflected during the
offseason on whether he wanted to keep playing, his assessment hadn’t changed
from the previous 13 years.
“I want to keep playing. I love being a part of this team, and helping
contribute any way I can to help them win,” he said, “because winning to me is
what it’s all about, and winning football games feels good. As many games as I
can help this team win, that’s my goal.”
Bruschi, who will turn 36 next Tuesday, said it’s strange not having Vrabel or
Harrison around. Thus far, there’s been a lot less laughter in the stretch
lines.
“I think you have the initial shock of it. When I got the call from Mike, he
told me he was on a plane to (Kansas City). (I said) ‘Well, why are you doin’
that?’ ‘Tedy I’ve been traded.’ Then there was a long silence,” Bruschi said.
“Now Pierre Woods comes in, (Shawn) Crable comes in. As a professional I have to
try to help mold those guys and hope they learned from Vrabes what it’s like to
be an (outside linebacker) in this system. The only way you see that is on the
field in a game, see if they’re able to do what (No.) 50 was able to do.”
Woods has nothing but respect for Bruschi, one of his mentors.
“Tedy is the Patriots [team stats]. He’s been here since 1996. That’s a long
time,” Woods said. “From a guy being a defensive end and moving to inside
linebacker for an organization and a coach, Bill Parcells, that demanded so much
of you just like (Bill) Belichick, hey, he’s the ultimate player. The ultimate
player.”
Wise old Tedy Bruschi back for more - BostonHerald.com
Jun 3, 2009
Bruschi loves winning
PATRIOTS NOTES
By Rich Garven TELEGRAM & GAZETTE STAFF
rgarven@telegram.com
FOXBORO — The old guard is falling by the wayside in New England, but Tedy
Bruschi is back and ready to defend the cause.
Bruschi missed the final three games last season with a knee injury and will
turn 36 Tuesday. None of that was enough to deter him from returning for a 14th
NFL season, all with the Patriots.
“I want to keep playing,” Bruschi said yesterday at the conclusion of an
offseason training activities workout. “I love being a part of this team and
helping contribute any way I can to help them win.
“Winning, to me, is what it’s all about, and winning football games feels good.
So as many games as I can help this team win, that’s my goal.”
At the end of every season, Bruschi takes some time to unwind. Then he begins
the process of making a decision on whether to return or retire.
This offseason was the same — and different.
“Well, you think about it a little more once you get up in years,” Bruschi said.
“Twelve, 13, 14, but you know it’s still about loving the game and having fun
doing it, and I still am.”
Bruschi certainly would be enjoying himself a bit more if some of his old
buddies were still around. But linebacker Mike Vrabel has been traded to Kansas
City and safety Rodney Harrison appears ready to trade in the NFL for NBC.
Bruschi joined the Patriots in 1996. Running back Kevin Faulk (1999) is the only
other player on the roster who arrived here prior to 2000.
“Yeah, noticeable age discrepancy for me and the guys playing next to me, too,”
Bruschi said with a hearty laugh. “It’s different. It’s different for me,
especially when you have a couple good friends that are missing.
“The stretch line is a lot less different. I don’t know, there was a lot less
laughter with some of the guys who aren’t here now. It’s changed. It’s changed
and you get used to it and move on.”
Telegram.com - A product of the Worcester Telegram & Gazette
PATRIOTS NOTEBOOK
Bruschi blows whistle: He eventually wants to coach
By Christopher L. Gasper, Globe Staff | July 1, 2009
FOXBOROUGH - Linebacker Tedy Bruschi is still couching exactly when his
playing career will end, but when it does, he wouldn’t mind coaching.
Yesterday, a month before the Patriots start training camp, Bruschi hosted his
second Kids Football Clinic, sponsored by insurer SBLI, at Gillette Stadium.
Bruschi approached the noncontact camp of 54 children decked out in No. 54
jerseys with the same passion and intensity he has displayed during his career
with the Patriots, now entering its 14th season.
“I know I can coach,’’ said Bruschi. “I know the game. I’ve been in it so long.
It’s just going to be a matter of what I do when I’m done. It’s a passion of
mine. I know I love football. I know I want to be in it. Let’s just see what
I’ll be doing.’’
Who better to learn about coaching from than Bill Belichick? Did Bruschi consult
his coach on the camp?
“No, but I’ve had this going on in my head for a while,’’ said Bruschi. “I’ve
mapped out the field, where the stations will be, how the guys will teach their
fundamentals. It’s a little Belichickian because I’ve been trying to keep it
organized.’’
Bruschi, who is entering the final season of his contract and turned 36 last
month, said he’s taking his playing career one season at a time.
“After you get past 10 [years], I think that’s the way you have to do it because
you never know what’s going to happen within a year,’’ Bruschi said. “So, when
the season is over you kind of reassess things and that’s how it’s going to go
again.’’
Joining Bruschi at the camp were linebacker Jerod Mayo, tight end David Thomas,
safety Ray Ventrone, and kicker Stephen Gostkowski. Former quarterback Scott
Zolak was also an instructor.
Christopher L. Gasper can be reached at
cgasper@globe.com.
http://www.boston.com/sports/football/patriots/articles/2009/07/01/patriots8217_bruschi_blows_whistle_he_eventually_wants_to_coach
Tedy Bruschi drills, thrills
By Will Hulings | Wednesday, July 1, 2009 | http://www.bostonherald.com | N.E.
Patriots
Photo by Matt Stone
FOXBORO - Even as the elder statesman on the Patriots [team stats], Tedy Bruschi
[stats] always remains youthful and excited every football season. His eternal
passion for the game was on full display yesterday at his second annual Youth
Football Clinic, sponsored by Savings Bank Life Insurance.
Bruschi, along with some friends and Patriots linebacker Jared Mayo, kicker
Stephen Gostkowski, tight end David Thomas and special teamer Ray Ventrone, gave
54 Boston-area kids the opportunity to engage in a simulated Pats practice. The
kids had their own space in the locker room, ran onto the field through the
Pats’ helmet and received drills from the Patriots.
Bruschi ran among the five stations set up to provide instruction in tackling,
running, catching, kicking and throwing.
While the kids enjoyed the sun and the thrill of playing in Gillette Stadium,
Bruschi was at ease, ready to play his 14th year in the league, all with the
Pats. As for beyond 2009, Bruschi will take it year by year.
“I have to,” he said. “After you get past 10 (years), I think that’s the way you
have to do it because you never know what’s going to happen within a year, you
just don’t. So when the season’s over you sort of reassess things and that’s how
it’s gonna go.”
Bruschi spent less time on the field in 2008 than in recent seasons, often
coming out on third down. His 75 tackles were his second fewest in six seasons,
and he had no sacks for the first time in his career.
As for Mayo, last year’s Defensive Rookie of the Year, he was there to help out
in tackling drills. By the way Mayo was enjoying himself and laughing with the
kids, it seems the Patriots may have another Bruschi in both ability and
character.
“He brings that youthful energy. Jerod is great,” Bruschi said. “I didn’t have
to ask him twice, I didn’t even finish the sentence and he was like, ‘Yes, you
know I’ll come.’ He loves working with kids just like I do.”
As for what the future holds for Bruschi after his playing days, yesterday
proved he could easily end up on the sidelines with a whistle around his neck,
instructing and teaching the game.
“I know I could coach,” Bruschi said. “I know the sport, and I’ve been in it so
long that it’s just gonna be a matter of what I do when I’m done. So, I don’t
know. It’s a passion of mine. I love football. I know I want to be in it. Let’s
just see what I’ll be doing then.”
Tedy Bruschi drills, thrills - BostonHerald.com
NECN Video while it lasts!
Bruschi faces challenges in Patriots camp
AP Sports
FOXBOROUGH, Mass.(AP) In his 14th season with the New England Patriots, Ted
Bruschi finds himself trying to hold off a group of challengers to his job while
adapting to a new defensive look that could impact his role.
Bruschi returned to practice Sunday after an extended absence.
``Just trying to take care of a few things,'' Bruschi said after the two-hour
workout. ``As you get a little bit older, you have to mend some things and it's
taken me a little longer to get out here. I'm feeling better now, and hopefully
I can get back to work.''
Bruschi credited the team's younger players with showing a lot of ``energy and
enthusiasm,'' two things he has had in abundance since the Patriots drafted him
out of Arizona in 1996.
He has been a defensive mainstay as the Patriots made nine playoff appearances,
won eight division championships, five conference titles and three Super Bowls.
Bruschi admitted he has a lot of catching up to do.
``You don't really get that look, you don't really get those reps until you're
out here on the practice field,'' he said. ``Do you feel a little bit behind
because you haven't been out here for so long? Yeah, but you get in the meeting
room and watch the film, and hopefully, you don't become an error repeater.''
The Patriots, deep on the defensive line, used more 4-3 fronts instead of their
usual 3-4 against the Philadelphia Eagles in the first preseason game last
Thursday.
``4-3? 3-4? 5-2? Whatever it is, whatever numbers you want to put out there, is
it possible for us to do it? I think it is because of the guys that are
multitalented along our front,'' Bruschi said
The changes could affect his role.
``We're not sure,'' he said. ``We're in training camp right now, roles are being
defined and I know we have a lot of good inside linebackers. Gary Guyton's a
good player. Jerod Mayo's a good player. You know what he can do. However it is
- even myself, in my 14th year - every training camp I have to look at it as I
have to come in and establish a role for myself on this team. This year's no
different.''
Bruschi has made stroke awareness a cause since he suffered a stroke in February
2005. It appeared at first his career was over, but he returned to the team that
fall and in 2008, was a defensive captain for the seventh time. He ended up
fourth on the team in tackles.
Bruschi's foundation, ``Tedy's Team,'' raises funds for stroke prevention and he
works with the American Stroke Association to raise awareness about symptoms and
treatment.
Bruschi missed the game against the Eagles but said he hoped to be able to play
as much as Belichick wants him to Thursday against the Cincinnati Bengals at
Gillette Stadium.
Bruschi faces challenges in Patriots camp
Bruschi braces for new role
Veteran will step in where needed
By Christopher L. Gasper, Globe Staff | August 26, 2009
FOXBOROUGH - Tedy Bruschi’s role on the Patriots is still not clearly
defined, but he’s willing to be used as a role player, if that is what is best
for the team.
It’s hard to picture Bruschi in a complementary role, but he pointed out that
before he was a household name in New England, he was a third-round pick trying
to find a niche in the NFL. Playing with the second team, as he did in his
preseason debut against the Cincinnati Bengals last Thursday - Gary Guyton
started at inside linebacker beside Jerod Mayo - is not uncharted territory.
“I’ve been with every unit in my career,’’ said Bruschi. “I’ve been with every
single unit, so maybe it would be different if I came in as No. 1 overall pick.
“But I came in having to work my way in, so I know what it’s like whether you
play every down, or just play only first and second down, or just play special
teams. I know what all those roles are like. I’m used to all of them, and that
helps.’’
The 13-year veteran said he still didn’t know exactly where he fits at this
point, but plans and roles can change from August to the end of the season.
“I’ve had so many years where, where you are in September is different from
where you are in December,’’ said Bruschi. “So, I’ve learned that, ever since I
was a third-down situational pass-rushing rookie that played on special teams,
all the way through my entire career, that [you] never assume what your role is
going to be. Just be ready when your coach calls on you.’’
The 36-year-old Bruschi was upbeat about how his body feels at this point after
not practicing in full pads between Aug. 1 and Aug. 15 because of what he termed
some “aches and pains.’’
“I feel good,’’ said Bruschi. ““[I’ve] been feeling good out there, been able to
participate, not like the beginning of camp . . . just sort of in a progression
like the other players, trying to get ready for the regular season.’’
Bruschi braces for new role - The Boston Globe
8/31/09
Bruschi announces retirement
New England Patriots
New England Patriots LB Tedy Bruschi announced his retirement today, closing his
13-year career as one of the most productive Patriots players in the team's
50-year history.
FOXBOROUGH, Mass. - New England Patriots LB Tedy Bruschi announced his
retirement today, closing his 13-year career as one of the most productive
Patriots players in the team's 50-year history. As a team captain, Bruschi's
relentless work ethic and on-field intensity helped set the tone for the entire
team.
"For the past 13 seasons, Tedy Bruschi helped define what it means to be a New
England Patriot," said Chairman and CEO Robert Kraft. "The heart and soul of the
defense during the most successful era in the history of the franchise, Tedy
also served as an example to every new Patriot of what it takes to be a champion
on and off the field. Tedy's tenacity as a player made him a fan favorite long
before he helped bring three Super Bowl championships to New England. His
remarkable and courageous return to the field following a stroke only added to
his legend as one of the most significant and memorable athletes in the history
of New England sports. We are blessed in so many ways to have had Tedy Bruschi
as a career Patriot."
Bruschi, 36, was originally drafted by the Patriots in the third round of the
1996 NFL Draft. The Arizona product spent his entire 13-year NFL career with the
Patriots. Bruschi leaves the football field having played a major role in
leading the Patriots to 11 winning records, including nine playoff seasons,
eight division championships, five conference titles and three Super Bowl
crowns. In Bruschi's 211 career games (including regular-season and playoffs),
the Patriots had a 144-67 (.682) record, including a 16-6 (.727) playoff mark.
Bruschi earned his first Pro Bowl honors following the 2004 season after
co-captaining a Patriots defense that allowed just 16.25 points per game, the
third fewest in franchise history. Bruschi is the only player in NFL history to
return four consecutive interceptions for touchdowns and his career total of
four picks returned for scores ranks second in Patriots history. He is tied for
fourth in NFL history among linebackers, and Bruschi is the only Patriots
linebacker to return multiple interceptions for scores in a single season (2002
and 2003).
Beyond his impressive numbers, fans and his peers revered him for his
accomplishments off the field and for his dedication to the New England area.
After Bruschi suffered a stroke in February 2005, he dedicated himself to
raising funds and awareness to fight stroke along with the American Stroke
Association. He established "Tedy's Team," a vehicle to help battle stroke, the
number one cause of disability in the United States. Members of Tedy's Team have
run in the Boston Marathon and the Falmouth Road Race and have raised hundreds
of thousands of dollars for stroke research.
Bruschi returned to the lineup for the final nine game of the 2005 season
following his stroke, and in his first game back he earned AFC Defensive Player
of the Week honors following a 10-tackle performance vs. Buffalo (10/30/05).
Bruschi played in 189 regular-season games for the Patriots, more than any other
linebacker in team history, third among all defensive players and sixth overall
in team history. Bruschi played in 22 career playoff games, the highest total in
Patriots history and tied for the second highest total of any active player
(Adam Vinatieri, 23).
For his career, Bruschi finished with 1,134 total tackles, 30.5 sacks, 12
interceptions, including four returned for touchdowns, 62 passes defensed, 18
forced fumbles, six fumble recoveries, including one returned for a touchdown
and 55 special teams tackles. Bruschi averaged 105 tackles over the last six
seasons. His 2003-2008 total of 631 stops are the most on the team over that
span. Over that time, the Patriots allowed an average of 17.25 points per game,
the second best total in the NFL.
Bruschi announces retirement
After 13 years and 3 titles, Tedy Bruschi retires
By HOWARD ULMAN, AP Sports
BOSTON(AP) Tedy Bruschi began the first day of his
post-football life by taking out the trash.
``I'm real life,'' he said, ``I'm just regular.''
Hardly.
Bruschi is that unique player who won three Super Bowls, spent a long career
with just one team and got Bill Belichick to drop his stoic persona on Monday
and, in a voice shaking with emotion, call Bruschi ``a perfect player.''
And one more thing:
``The thought of playing professional football after experiencing a stroke. I
mean, is that a statement you hear everyday?'' Bruschi said. ``It's not.''
After all that, and more, the inside linebacker and father of three whose sons
stayed home Monday because they ``would rather play with their Transformers than
come and sit in the front row'' next to his wife, announced his retirement after
13 seasons with the New England Patriots.
Smiling and never expressing regrets or shedding a tear, the longtime leader of
the Patriots defense had a simple explanation for retiring now.
Bruschi, who had missed much of training camp and one exhibition game with an
undisclosed injury, said he was simply too old and found his ``body doesn't heal
as quickly.''
He also had accomplished all his goals except ``winning a fourth championship,''
he said. ``Knowing I have three previous ones, I think I'll let that one go.
``I feel great about myself right now.'
'
Just 4 1/2 years ago, Bruschi walked unsteadily out of Massachusetts General
Hospital with his wife Heidi. He had been admitted two days earlier, on Feb. 16,
2005, three days after playing in his only Pro Bowl and 10 days after his final
championship.
He had felt numbness in his left arm and left leg and had blurry vision. The
diagnosis: a mild stroke.
Bruschi had surgery for a hole in his heart, but made it back for the seventh
game of the season.
``I was retired,'' he said. ``I didn't think it was possible.''
In that game, he had 10 tackles against the Buffalo Bills. He led the team in
tackles for the first time in 2006 despite surgery for a broken wrist a month
before the season. He was the Patriots' leading tackler again in 2007.
His performance declined last year, and rookie Jerod Mayo, the Defensive Player
of the Year, emerged as his successor as the leader in the middle of the
defense.
``He kind of took me under his wing when I first came here,'' Mayo said. ``He
told me then that one day he would pass the torch on to me and the rest of the
team and I guess today's that day.''
Bruschi's retirement leaves running back Kevin Faulk, who joined the team in
1999, as the longest-tenured Patriot.
``When you talk about Tedy, you talk about leadership, inspiration,'' Faulk
said.
Bruschi was a third-round draft choice from Arizona in 1996 who tied the
Division I-A career sack record. The Patriots switched him from defensive end,
where he would have been undersized in the NFL, to linebacker and he had to
learn to cover receivers.
``We (didn't) really know what to do with him,'' said Belichick, who also joined
the Patriots in 1996 as assistant head coach to Bill Parcells. ``All along the
way he heard, 'too small,' 'too slow,' ' too this,' 'too that,' and just kept
getting better and better and working harder and outworking and out-competing
pretty much everybody that he faced.''
Belichick spoke nonstop for 8 1/2 minutes, about Bruschi's passion, instincts
and optimism, his knack for always doing ``the right thing,'' and being ``the
epitome of everything you want in a football player.''
As his coach left the podium and Bruschi approached it, they embraced.
Wearing a beige suit and light blue shirt with an open collar, Bruschi stood in
front of two dark blue jerseys with his name and number 54 hanging on either
side of a video screen that had played career highlights - Bruschi sliding on
his knees as he scored on an interception, dumping the contents of an orange
Gatorade bucket on Belichick, raising the Super Bowl trophy in his right hand.
``There isn't one moment and I'll never have just one moment,'' Bruschi said.
``I'm very fortunate to have so many.''
Bruschi was proud to play with one team.
``I think people want to move, to change teams because they want to fix their
problems an easy way,'' he said. ``I'd rather right the ship than jump ship.''
Bruschi played in 189 regular-season games, more than any linebacker in club
history. His 631 total tackles over the past six seasons were the most on the
team.
For his career, he had 1,134 tackles, 30 1/2 sacks and 12 interceptions, four of
them touchdowns.
``Tedy embodies everything we want the Patriot brand to stand for,'' owner
Robert Kraft said. ``Hard work, perseverance, overachievement, and selfless
commitment to team first.''
Bruschi isn't sure what's next.
What if Belichick calls in November, asking him to come back?
``Bill and I had a great conversation (Sunday) and I don't know if my answer to
that was, 'Don't call me,''' Bruschi said. ``If there was more I wanted to
achieve, to come back and do more, then I would welcome that.''
But he made sure he took advantage of his opportunities so when his career was
over he wouldn't wish he had done more.
``There were the highest of highs and the lowest of lows,'' Bruschi said. ``I
did my job for 13 years and now my job is done. My job's done, Bill. I'm looking
forward to living the rest of my life.''
After 13 years and 3 titles, Tedy Bruschi retires
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