Richard Sherman is Seattle Seahawks nominee for Man of the Year
Cornerback Richard Sherman is the Seattle Seahawks nominee for the NFL’s 2015 Walter Payton Man of the Year award.
We all know of the accolades Richard Sherman has received from his play on the field. Now he is being recognized for his work off the field as well.
Jun 2, 2015; Seattle, WA, USA; Seattle Seahawks cornerback Richard Sherman (25) waves to the crowd during the ceremonial first pitch before a game between the Seattle Mariners and New York Yankees at Safeco Field. Mandatory Credit: Joe Nicholson-USA TODAY Sports
Sherman is known through out his home community in Compton, California, and also in Seattle for his generous spirit. Focused on low-income communities, Sherman’s foundation Blanket Coverage was formed to provide school supplies, clothing, and mentorship to children not only in his hometown, but in his adopted city as well.
Many know of Sherman’s foundation due to its high profile celebrity softball game held in Seattle each year. In the past, stars such as Kobe Bryant, Macklemore, Russell Westbrook, Bryan McKnight, and many of Sherman’s teammates have come together to help raise money to support the cause.
The game is fun, but the work of the foundation is felt much deeper. To the kids it has helped, it has made a lasting impression. A Stanford graduate, Sherman focuses on education as the key to success. He shares his story of success with students all over the country, hoping to inspire them. Sherman hopes that some day his foundation can grow to the point where they will be able to provide college scholarships.
There are 32 nominees for the Walter Payton Man of the Year award each year. Every team nominates one player who has had a significant positive impact on his community. Each of those nominees receives a $5,000 donation to the charity of their choice. The winner will be announced February 6th, 2016 at the NFL Honors event.
Jan 31, 2014; New York, NY, USA; General view of the Walter Payton Man of the Year Trophy during a press conference at Rose Theater. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports
The NFL Man of the Year award dates back to 1970 with Johnny Unitas being the first recipient. In 1999, the award name was changed to the Walter Payton Man of the Year award to honor former Chicago Bears running back Walter Payton who passed away that same year. The award honors a player’s volunteer and charity work, as well as his excellence on the field.