Darrell Green

1999 Honoree

Seven-time All-Pro defensive back with the Washington Redskins... Four-time winner of the NFL Fastest Man Competition... A leader in three Super Bowls and seven Pro Bowls... A sure bet for the NFL Hall of Fame... There is no doubt that Darrell Green performs exceptionally on the football field. But it is his service to God and community outreach efforts of which he is most proud.

Through the Darrell Green Youth Life Foundation in Washington, D.C., Mr. Green reaches out to hurting and troubled young people with the love of Jesus Christ. The foundation’s programs concentrate on elements like reverence for God, respect for fellow students and adults, and non-violent conflict resolution. From many accounts, the foundation is making a significant impact upon the lives of Washington, D.C.’s youth. That impact may expand around the country, as Mr. Green plans to establish several Darrell Green Learning Centers across the country.

During talks with his three children and children around the country, Mr. Green often emphasizes the importance of education. Given that he had left a Texas college 15 years ago without completing his degree, Mr. Green felt that his message would have a greater impact if he set an example for the children. With that in mind, in 1997, he enrolled in Saint Paul’s College in Lawrenceville, Virginia, and completed a bachelor’s degree in May 1998. He achieved this feat while balancing the demands of family, community, church, and work.

Mr. Green has received many awards and honors for both his superb athletic talents and philanthropy: 1996 NFL True Value Man of the Year, 1996 NFL Defensive Player of the Year, 1996 Redskins Alumni Player of the Year, 1996 Redskins Most Valuable Player, 1996 Ken Houston Humanitarian Award, 1997 USA TODAY Most Caring Athlete Award, and 1997 Sprint Good Sportsmanship Award.

When referring to what motivates him to keep his focus on outreach to children and not making football number one in his life, Mr. Green says, “...I know what my motivation is — that I decrease and Christ be glorified.” This is a lesson from which today’s youth can learn.