Rush introduces Grabowski
September 27, 2005 - Arena Football League (1987-2008) (AFL I)
Chicago Rush News Release
September 27, 2005 - After Mike Ditka became an owner of the Chicago Rush, fans and media wondered if "Da Owner" would make personnel decisions. At a press conference this afternoon at his restaurant in Chicago, that question was answered when Ditka introduced his first hire as an Arena Football League owner- the team's first-ever mascot, Grabowski.
"Twenty years ago I respectfully referred to my team as a bunch of âGrabowskis,'" said Ditka. "That same description is even more perfectly suited for my Rush players - a bunch of hard-working, tough guys who play for the love of the game and its fans, not the weekly paycheck.
"With that in mind, I felt we needed to create a mascot that embodied the tough, but fan-friendly nature of the AFL players, and the Grabowski character is a perfect match."
Grabowski is a tall, athletic mascot wearing a Rush uniform bearing Ditka's number 89. In addition to his football gear, Grabowski is armed with a hard hat, lunch pail and tool belt, symbolizing the blue-collar nature of the Rush players and coaches.
Grabowski will live at Allstate Arena and serve as the team's newest ambassador. In addition to leading the cheers during Rush games, he will be active in the community, visiting hospitals, promoting reading at Chicagoland schools, attending youth football camps and banquets, and participating in community events.
Fans or groups wishing to schedule Grabowski to appear at an event should contact Shawn Sullivan, Rush community relations manager, at (773) 243-3463.
Arena Football League (1987-2008) Stories from September 27, 2005
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