Andrew Mckelvie
April 19, 2016, is now officially considered to be a part of not only Troy University’s history, but Alabama’s history as well.
This particular day was dedicated to NFL icon DeMarcus Ware for his outstanding career as a professional athlete and overall positive mentor to society. After playing football at and graduating from Troy University, DeMarcus Ware went on to be drafted in the first round of the NFL draft by the Dallas Cowboys in 2005.
Ware played nine consecutive seasons with the Cowboys before being released. Shortly after, he was picked up by the Denver Broncos, where he continued building his legacy. Prior to being drafted, Ware became Troy’s all-time leader in tackles for a loss.
He was also named to the Sun Belt Conference All-Decade Team and was named the conference’s Defensive Player of the Year in 2004. Ware’s most recent accomplishment, winning the 2016 Super Bowl with the Denver Broncos, is what has grabbed the state of Alabama’s attention.
After such a successful but young career, Chancellor Jack Hawkins of Troy University and Governor Robert Bentley held a proclamation service in Montgomery and dedicated the day to Ware’s success. Along with receiving a key to the city of Troy, he was also named an honorary Lt. Governor of the State of Alabama.
He addressed the crowd then travelled back to place to the place where it all began. Troy University welcomed him with open arms, hosting a city-wide ceremony in Trojan Arena and congratulating him on all of his accomplishments.
The ceremony consisted of DeMarcus himself addressing the Troy football organization, as well as live streams from numerous teammates including Broncos quarterback Peyton Manning. Chancellor Hawkins and the city of Troy recognized Ware as being an example of what it truly means to strive for excellence.
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