Legends Return Home
Some Raider legends found their way to the training camp facility in Napa this week. It is great seeing these old-time Raiders supporting the team and in particular, Head Coach Shell. It sends out a clear message to the young guns and veteran players alike. Number 1. Once a Raider, always a Raider. Number 2. The former Raiders are a part of an extended family that reaches across many generations. (photo above: Cliff Branch (1972-1985); Raymond Chester (1970-1972, 1978-1981). 
I love seeing former players like Lester Hayes (1977-1986) passing the torch and sharing his wisdom with Nnamdi Asomugha. It is also very encouraging to see former players like Howie Long, Marcus Allen, and Gene Upshaw lending their names, support, and leadership to a foundation which helps former players who have fallen on tough times and need financial assistance for medical reasons.
posted by Calico Jack at 4:34 PM
2 Comments:
CJ: After seeing Jim Otto have his entire skeleton replaced...
Jack Tatum have his leg amputated...
and Lester have his chronic health problems...
Steve Smith become trapped in a body which does not move...
Curt Marsh is also an amputee...
I say, anything we can do to repay the joy these players have brought to us is worth the effort.
Not every Raider was born into an era where million$ paychecks are the norm.
Stick'em:
I was lucky enough to go to the 1st annual Silver and Black Fund event 2 years ago in Burbank.
Not only was it a fun day for Raider fans to get the autographs and talk with the Raiders legends, I believe the 1 day event raised over $200K to go to former players in dire financial/medical needs.
This is a very noble cause considering the many players pre-1989 who had short careers who didn't make a lot of money, and unfortunately have fallen into hard times.
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