NEW YORK – The Heisman Trophy Presentation brings many different people to Times Square on the second Saturday each December. In addition to former winners, members of the media, and the families and coaches of the finalists, there are only a few others who get to see first hand who will be named the "most outstanding player" in college football.
Emory & Henry College's offensive coordinator Craig Stutzmann flew to the Big Apple in support of Marcus Mariota, quarterback from the University of Oregon, and attended the Heisman Trophy Gala on Monday night.
While Stutzmann and Mariota are both natives of Hawaii and of Polynesian descent, that is only the beginning of their connection. Stutzmann returned to his alma mater, Saint Louis School, in the spring of 2004 as an assistant coach. One year later, he was tasked with reviving the junior varsity program at the prestigious Roman Catholic school. Soon after, he became Mariota's first high school coach.
During his heartfelt acceptance speech last Saturday, Mariota acknowledged all of his teachers and coaches saying, "thank you for the countless life lessons that have shaped me into who I am today."
Mariota, the first Heisman Trophy winner with Polynesian heritage, went on to say, "To the Men of Kalaepōhaku and the St. Louis (School) brotherhood, thank you for teaching me to be always mindful and faithful." Kalaepōhaku, meaning "rocky promontory" is the name of the ridge on which the school has made its home for more than 86 years.
Just moments after the Ducks' quarterback hoisted the 25-pound trophy, the two shared an embrace in the lobby of the Mariott Grand Marquis hotel which was captured by The Oregonian that went miles beyond football, alma mater, ancestry and accomplishment.
"It's a blessing to have taught, coached and have a lasting relationship with Marcus," commented Stutzmann. "He sets the standard in athletics, academics and character for all student-athletes that I have coached and will coach throughout my career. I pray for nothing but success for Marcus as he moves forward with his career."
While Emory & Henry's 8-2 season is in the books and recruiting is in full swing, Stutzmann still has his eye on games yet to be played. Oregon (12-1) will take on Florida State University (13-0) in the Rose Bowl Game on New Year's Day with a spot in the first-ever College Football Playoff championship up for grabs.
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-photo courtesy of Thomas Boyd/The Oregonian