140 year of Shriners

140 year of Shriners

Monday, October 26, 2009

Crennel, Schottenheimer Announced as Head Coaches for 85th Game


ORLANDO, Fla. (Oct. 22, 2009) — Romeo Crennel and Marty Schottenheimer were announced as the head coaches for the 85th East-West Shrine Game at a press conference today at the Florida Citrus Bowl in Orlando. Crennel will head the East Team while Schottenheimer leads the West. The 85th East-West Shrine Game will kick off on Jan. 23 at 3 p.m. EST in Orlando.

“I’m looking forward to the ability to work with some of the tremendous talent that accumulates for the game,” said Crennel. “Being involved with these types of athletes will be an honor.”

Crennel began his NFL coaching career in 1970, spending 24 years as an assistant coach and four years as head coach of the Cleveland Browns, from 2005-2008. Crennel led the Browns to a 10-6 record in 2007, including a franchise-best seven consecutive home wins. He holds five Super Bowl titles.

Schottenheimer spent 21 years as an NFL coach for four teams and holds fifth place on the NFLs’ all-time wins list. He was named NFL Coach of the Year in 2004 by the Associated Press, after leading the San Diego Chargers to the AFC West title with a 12-4 record.

The East-West Shrine Game gives college seniors the opportunity to showcase their talents for all 32 NFL teams. Crennel’s and Schottenheimer’s extensive NFL backgrounds will allow players a glimpse of life in professional football.

“This is a terrific opportunity for the players to get experience working with coaches from the pro-ranks,” said Schottenheimer. “It gives them an idea of how things work as they pursue professional football. As coaches, we all enjoy the opportunity to interact with the players and impart knowledge about playing at the next level.”

For both head coaches, the purpose behind the game – raising awareness and money for Shriners Hospitals for Children – is a main reason they are looking forward to coaching in the 85th East-West Shrine Game.

“It’s a great opportunity to be associated with this game because of its history, what it stands for and the kids it helps through raising money,” said Crennel. “It also gives the players a chance to give back to the community. It’s a great opportunity for all involved.”

“It’s an extremely worthy cause,” said Schottenheimer. “The Shriners make great contributions to the care and treatment of kids. Being a part of that is a significant aspect of what I’m looking forward to.”

Shriners Hospitals for Children is an international health care system that provides all care without financial obligation to patients or their families. The organization depends on the generosity of donors and funds raised by special events, such as the East-West Shrine Game.

For more information, please visit www.ShrineGame.com or www.ShrinersHospitals.org.

No comments: