Stafford’s Assist in Pasadena
It has been nearly two months since the Los Angeles wildfires displaced thousands and caused major disruptions in so many daily routines. Lives were lost, and several possessions were gone.
By Earl Heath | Contributing Sports Writer
It has been nearly two months since the Los Angeles wildfires displaced thousands and caused major disruptions in so many daily routines. Lives were lost, and several possessions were gone.
Los Angeles Rams quarterback Matthew Stafford has stepped up to help one of the prep institutions in SoCal. The veteran quarterback and his family donated 60 varsity uniforms and equipment to the Pasadena High football team.
The California Interscholastic Federation (CIF) Division 13 champion Bulldogs football team received the big surprise at its annual banquet. The school was affected by the Eaton wildfire in Altadena in January. In addition to the school losing uniforms and football equipment in the fire, multiple players lost their homes
Stafford spoke to those in attendance about his wonderful gesture.
“We just wanted to do something to lift your spirits,” Matthew Stafford told the room. “We know how much football means to this community. We know how much it means to have that pride when you step on the field. This is about making sure you all keep playing the game you love.”
Kelly Stafford also weighed in with some comments. To NBC Los Angeles, “We can’t imagine what you’ve all been through,” she said. “But we want you to know that you’re not alone. We’re here for you.”
“We can’t imagine what you’ve all been through,” she said. “But we want you to know that you’re not alone. We’re here for you.”
The jesture was felt by players: “When I saw Matthew Stafford, I was like, ‘Oh yeah,'” said running back Josiah Rucker, who also played linebacker and defensive end for the Bulldogs. “I was just happy.”
Pasadena High head coach Ron Jones said it was “truly a blessing, a big surprise” and “meant the world” that the Rams and the Staffords had them in mind.
“To come to our city, Pasadena, you know, we’re not in L.A. We’re a suburb outside of L.A.,” Jones said. “For them to look to us and ask us for what we need, and to actually come and come through and deliver and actually present to us personally is a real big deal.”
