State College Area School District alumni Matt Suhey and Jordan Norwood have both earned Super Bowl rings. Suhey won the big game as a fullback with the Chicago Bears in 1985 and Jordan got his ring last year as a punt returner and wide receiver with the world champion Denver Broncos.
With the distinction of being Super Bowl participants, each man will present the State College Area School District with a commemorative golden football, produced by Wilson, to link the past 49 Super Bowls with this year’s game, and to honor the high schools and communities that have positively impacted the game.
Suhey will present his award during State High’s Friday contest with Mifflin County at Memorial Field. The game is scheduled to begin at 7 p.m.
‘The entire Suhey family has played an instrumental part in the success of the State College Area football program for generations,’ said State High varsity football coach Matt Lintal. ‘We are grateful that Matt was willing and able to come back for this game so we can have the opportunity to honor him for his great accomplishments. I am very excited to have the opportunity to meet him and to introduce him to our current players. We are extremely thankful for the continued support of the Suhey family and all of our State College football alumni.’
Suhey played for Penn State from 1976 to 1979, then played with the Chicago Bears from 1980-1989. While with the Bears, he was the lead blocker for Walter Payton. As a professional, he played in 148 games and compiled 2,946 rushing yards and scored 20 touchdowns.
Suhey is one of three sons of College Football Hall of Fame guard Steve Suhey to letter at PSU and a grandson of Hall of Fame Penn State player and coach Bob Higgins. His son, Joe Suhey, was a fullback at Penn State from 2007 to 2011.
Lintal hopes Suhey’s presence will be an inspiration for the Little Lions.
‘Having Suhey present for this game is one of the many reasons that our team is very excited to play Friday night,’ said Lintal. ‘This is also our first home game, our first-ever State College Football Alumni Night and Kindergarten Night.
“I am excited that Matt will be with us in the locker room prior to the game. This will be a great opportunity for our kids to hear a message from him that I am certain will reflect the character, determination and work ethic that led to his success in life. This certainly will have a positive impact on our players for years to come.’
All State College football alumni are invited to a “welcome back” reception with Suhey from 5 to 6:30 p.m. outside the stadium. Admission to the game will be free for all alumni.
According to NFL.com, more than 2,000 schools and nearly 3,000 individuals will be honored through the Super Bowl High School Honor Roll program.
Norwood will present his Golden Football at a later date, most likely after the NFL season.
IF YOU GO
What: NFL Golden Football Presentation
When: 7 p.m., Friday, Sept. 16
Where: Memorial Field, State College
Tickets: Available at the gate
Of note: There will be a special reception for State College Area High School football alumni from 5 to 6:30 p.m.
