The Cincinnati Bengals and the Marvin Lewis Community Fund (MLCF) once again teamed up to host Football 101 presented by National City on Thursday, November 6th at Paul Brown Stadium at 4:30 p.m. The sold-out event started with a silent auction, dinner, drinks, raffle, and door prizes.
Head Coach Marvin Lewis was joined by members of the Bengals’ coaching staff and players to explain the rules and nuances of football to the 450 attendees. Individuals learned the game in a relaxed and entertaining atmosphere. The event included hands-on demonstrations, video presentations, and VIP tours of the locker room, weight room, and playing field. The night ended with coffee, desserts and a live auction.
“I love teaching this game and I do not think I’ve met a more enthusiastic and fun group of pupils than the participants that attend Football 101,” said Coach Lewis. “I look forward to recognizing our Pink Football Award winner every year as it is an inspiration to myself and all the attendees.”
The Football 101 participants rotated through five stations:
Under the Hood – Held in the team meeting room, current NFL referee Paul Weidner discussed the rules of the game in an interactive session allowing the guests to “throw the flag and make the call.”
Weight Room & Training Room – Strength and conditioning coaches Chip Morton and Ray Oliver showed where the players work out and get treated for injuries.
Chalk Talk – Coaches Kevin Coyle, Jim Anderson and Jeff Fitzgerald broke down game film and plays in the locker room.
Offensive Drills – Coaches Mike Sheppard, Paul Guenther, Ken Zampese, Bob Surace, Eric Ball and Darrin Simmons led the participants through the drills the offense practices during the week. Kicker Shayne Graham provided tips as the guests attempted field goals.
Defensive Drills – Hitting the sled and tackling dummies were just a couple of the drills that were conducted under the watchful eyes of coaches Louie Cioffi, Jay Hayes, Jonathan Hayes and Mike Zimmer.
The participants rotated through the interactive sessions every 20 minutes.
Once again this year National City and the Marvin Lewis Community Fund recognized an outstanding woman for her strength, courage, and perseverance to overcome breast cancer with the fourth annual Pink Football Award. This year’s winner, Shelly Maxwell, received the award as part of the Football 101 program.
