Former NFL quarterback Peyton Manning and Riddell were so impressed with Peoria High School’s football team that they dubbed them “Riddell’s Team of the Future.” Manning recently visited the Peoria, Illinois-based team to coach up the Lions’ quarterbacks and throw to the wide receivers.
Manning, who now works as a brand ambassador and strategic advisor for Riddell, has awarded grants to 10 football programs as part of Riddell’s “Smarter Football initiative.”
In June, Riddell awarded Peoria High School with “the latest in football head protection and smart helmet technologies” in recognition of the school’s commitment to using smarter playing tactics.
After that, Riddell encouraged other teams to apply for grants and selected 10 winners for new equipment.
“I’m proud to help ensure these 10 teams’ commitment to player safety is taken to the next level with industry-leading protective equipment from Riddell,” Manning said in a press release.
“It’s remarkable to learn about the difference these teams make on developing young athletes and collectively improving the sport. These organizations are truly the future of football and set a great example for others to follow.”
Riddell gave $10,000 in grants to Frankfort High School, Wendell High School, Newton Conover High School, Apalachee High School, Cardinal O’Hara High School, Texas School for the Deaf, Canyon Country High School, Farmington Youth Football, Wilkinson County Youth Football and Hummelstown Youth Football.
