Gov. Scott Presents Tony Dungy and Derrick Brooks with Prestigious "Great Floridian" Awards

Published on May 25, 2013 under Arena Football League (AFL)
Tampa Bay Storm News Release


Tampa, Fla. - Tonight, Governor Rick Scott will present "Great Floridian" awards to former Buccaneers Coach Tony Dungy and former Buccaneers Linebacker and current President of the Tampa Bay Storm Derrick Brooks. The "Great Floridian" designation is given in recognition of the outstanding achievements of men and women who have made significant contributions to the progress and welfare of Florida.

Governor Scott said, "It is my distinct honor to present these two "˜Great Floridian' awards to former Buccaneers Coach Tony Dungy and former Buccaneers Linebacker Derrick Brooks. Tony and Derrick represented Tampa Bay with pride, on a national stage, during their tenure with the Bucs, and have each gone on to improve the lives of Florida families.

"Derrick has devoted his post-football career to positively impacting Tampa Bay's families by providing better opportunities in our classrooms. And Tony has extended his helping hand to those youth in-need, striving to give each child the chance to live their American Dream."

Attorney General Pam Bondi said, "Tony Dungy and Derrick Brooks are truly 'great Floridians' who both excelled during their years in the NFL and who used their athletic successes to inspire and help others. Both Tony and Derrick have transformed the lives of so many people throughout the country, whether by supporting families or helping mentor and educate children. Their work reflects the shared philosophy of both men that success isn't measured by what you do on the playing field, but what you do in your personal life for your community."

Tony Dungy said, "It is an honor to receive this award from Governor Scott, and to be able to accept it next to a great friend, Derrick Brooks."

Derrick Brooks said, "It is a humbling honor for me to receive an award of such distinction today from Governor Scott and I am grateful. I take pleasure in doing all I can for our community and I am proud of everything we have been able to accomplish through my Foundation. I look forward to continue making a difference where I can, especially for the young people in the State of Florida."

Only 67 individuals since 1981 have been given this distinct honor, and those honorees represent former governors, civil rights activists, military heroes, Florida Supreme Court Justices and others.

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