Kevin Mawae, current NFLPA president, has been a great ambassador for the players of the National Football League on and off the field. On the field, he made it to the Pro Bowl eight times in his 16 year career including six consecutive selections (1999-2004) and is regarded as one of the best centers in recent history.
Off the field, he has been an intricate part of helping rookies transition from the college game to the NFL, and has been very active in expanding the role of the NFL Players Association. He also created the First and Goal Challenge which is a unique program to benefit Winthrop University Hospital’s outstanding Child Life Program and Pediatric Services. Pro Player Insiders caught up with Kevin in Los Angeles to get his take on the 2011-12 season and see what he’s been up to.
PPI: What are some of the things the NFLPA has done to help educate rookies and how do you see that continuing?
KM: I think it started with the premiere of the NFLPA Collegiate All-Star Game. Reaching out to these kids and educating them on what the NFLPA is all about, what we’re here to do to support them and help them have great careers. Not everyone is going to have a 10 or 15 year career but if they can make the most out of whatever opportunity they have then it’s something positive we can do for them. Letting them know that they can do it, that they have an opportunity to live a dream and turn that dream into something big and make a difference in the community that they’re coming from.
PPI: What was the significance of the NFLPA PULSE Awards
KM: To honor the former players that came before us and set the foundation that shows for which we stand and to recognize some of the players that have done great things in the game this year, recognizing accomplishments on and off the field. Being the current president it’s an opportunity for me to say congratulations to them, shake their hand, and be around some of the greatest players that ever played.
