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Miami Dolphins Announce Valicia Browne as Inaugural Football Unites: Project Change Scholarship Recipient   Download PDF version

June 13, 2018

#TeamworkAtWork

#FootballUnites

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Miami Dolphins Announce Valicia Browne as Inaugural Football Unites: Project Change Scholarship Recipient

MIAMI – The Miami Dolphins announced graduating senior Valicia Browne as the inaugural recipient of the Project Change Scholarship. The Project Change Scholarship, part of a yearly fund for advocacy and social justice programs created by Miami Dolphins Owner Stephen Ross and Miami Dolphins players, identifies one high school student each year and will pay for their tuition to college over a four-year period. The goal of the scholarship is to target students to impact their lives, so they can make a change in their community.

“When we launched the Football Unites: Project Change Scholarship last December, the vision was to empower youth to make a real impact in our community. We are fortunate to have an owner in Stephen Ross and players that are committed to making these transformational changes,” Dolphins Senior Vice President of Communications & Community Affairs Jason Jenkins said. “The work Valicia is doing and aspires to continue is a shining example of working to better humanity. We’re excited to share in this next chapter with her as she embarks on what will be a bright future in college.”

Valicia, a graduating senior from Olympic Heights Community High School in Boca Raton, Florida, carries a 4.2 GPA and plays tennis. She has a goal to establish medical clinics to provide affordable health care in underserved communities and has been accepted to Florida State University for Fall 2018. In addition, Valicia is looking forward to working with civil rights/social justice groups in Tallahassee throughout college.

“It’s really incredible, I never thought I would be in this position that I am. It speaks to the impact the Miami Dolphins make in the community. They are really hands on with improving the community. With this scholarship, I will be going to Florida State and I look to make an impact in Tallahassee in terms of volunteering at the various non-profit organizations,” Valicia said. “Growing up, I’m originally from Brooklyn, my parents and I would always go to homeless shelters and feed those in need. Just seeing their faces light up for a hot plate of food that they would not normally have really inspired me to continue to put smiles on people’s faces.”

The scholarship was launched by the Miami Dolphins in December 2017. Applicants needed to maintain a GPA of 3.0, complete at least 40 hours a community service a semester in social justice programs, write an essay on what change they want to see in the community and how the scholarship will achieve that change as well as be accepted into a community college or university.

Through Football Unites, the organization has created opportunities for South Florida-based groups to strengthen and expand their impact around community engagement, education and justice reform. The team chose 11 recipients to receive Football Unites grants for the 2018 season. This diverse set of recipients includes Art Detectives, Community Justice Project, Inc., Miami Gardens Police Department, National Organization of Black Law Executives South Florida Chapter (NOBLE), North Miami Police Athletic League, North Miami Beach Police Athletic League, Pridelines, SAVE, Trayvon Martin Foundation, Urban League of Broward County and YWCA Miami.

The grant recipients come on the heels of Stephen Ross and the 5000 Role Models of Excellence Project announcement of a long-term partnership, centering on social justice, education and police and youth relations. The cornerstones of the partnership are the 5000 Role Models Police and Youth Conference and a College Academic Signing Day for Wilson Scholars at Hard Rock Stadium. In addition, the Dolphins will continue pre-existing programs with the 5000 Role Models of Excellence Project and amplify new events. In all, these social justice community initiatives will impact more than 10,000 Role Models.

These initiatives are in addition to Dolphins previous work in this space through the team’s collaboration with the Ross Initiative in Sports for Equality (RISE). Founded and created by Ross in Oct. 2015, RISE harnesses the unifying power of sports to improve race relations and drive social progress. To learn more about RISE, visit risetowin.org.

Miami Dolphins Rookies Participate in Rebuilding Together Service Project   Download PDF version

June 12, 2018

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Miami Dolphins Rookies Participate in Rebuilding Together Service Project

Fort Lauderdale – The Miami Dolphins rookie class today participated in a Rebuilding Together Broward event at Archways. Archways is an Avon Manor Group Home that provides behavioral healthcare to individuals and families.

The entire Miami Dolphins rookie class participated in the event, including Johnathan Alston, Cornell Armstrong, Jerome Baker, Kalen Ballage, Cayson Collins, Jalen Davis, Minkah Fitzpatrick, Mike Gesicki, Lucas Gravelle, Connor Hilland, Buddy Howell, Greg Joseph, Claudy Mathieu, Mike McCray, Anthony Moten, Jamiyus Pittman, Quentin Poling, Quincy Redmon, Jason Sanders, Durham Smythe and David Steinmetz.

The rookies worked alongside Fort Lauderdale police officers to beautify the Archways facility. Tasks included mulching, planting and removing a brick wall at the residence.

“We’re out here in the community helping out. It’s a lot of fun. Spending time with my teammates has been the most memorable moment of the day,” Dolphins fourth-round draft pick Kalen Ballage said. “It’s a great atmosphere that I’ve been in since I’ve been down here. Being in the community behind these guys and being able to help in any way possible is great for me.”

This marks the fourth time the 2018 rookie class has been active in the South Florida community since arriving in early May. Today’s project with Rebuilding Together Broward also marks the fourth time a Dolphins rookie class has worked with the nonprofit over the years and is part of a multi-year relationship with the Dolphins and Rebuilding Together.

“We want to thank the Dolphins organization and the players today for helping us make such in impact at Archways,” Rebuilding Together Operations Manager Jason Mann said. “One of the great pleasures we have here at Rebuilding Together Broward is the opportunity to work alongside organizations such as Dolphins to make an impact in our community. We’ve enjoyed our working relationship with the Dolphins over the years and look forward to working with them in the future.”

Miami Dolphins Host North Miami Beach Police Athletic/Activities League Chapter at OTA Practice   Download PDF version

June 12, 2018

#LetsPlayFootball

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Miami Dolphins Host North Miami Beach Police Athletic/Activities League Chapter at OTA Practice

Davie, Fla. – The Miami Dolphins today hosted the North Miami Beach Police Athletic/Activities League (PAL) chapter at their Organized Team Activity (OTA) practice. The athletes and officers were given a tour of the Baptist Health Training Facility at Nova Southeastern University and heard from Miami Dolphins Executive Vice President of Football Operations Mike Tannenbaum on the importance of being a good teammate.

The North Miami Beach PAL chapter also had the opportunity to watch the Dolphins practice and meet with current players on the field, including Dolphins safety and National PAL spokesperson Walt Aikens. Following practice, the group had lunch provided by Publix.

“Jeff called me a few months back over the break and asked me if I wanted to become a part of the PAL system again. I felt like it was the best way to give back, me going back to these local communities and showing these kids that no matter where you are or where you’re from, you can always make it and there’s a positive way out of every situation,” Miami Dolphins safety and National PAL spokesperson Walt Aikens said.

“It takes key and strategic partnerships for any organization to be successful. We’ve been very fortunate and blessed and thankful to be able to have the Miami Dolphins step up in this way and in this manner and realize and recognize that to whom much is given, much is required,” National Police Athletic/Activites League CEO Jeff Hood said. “The Dolphins have gained so much throughout their history of football and to be able to give some of that back to help some of our young kids, to help them have a better life and give them this level of exposure is awesome.”

The North Miami Beach PAL chapter is one of 11 Miami Dolphins Football Unites grant recipients for the 2018 season. Created in November 2017 by Owner Stephen Ross and Dolphins players, these grants will provide funds for South Florida-based groups to strengthen and expand their impact around community engagement, education and justice reform.

The Junior Dolphins program encourages youth players and coaches to teach, learn and play football in a fun and safe environment. The Junior Dolphins program is designed to give kids access to learn the fundamentals of football using the NFL’s top resources. To grow the game, the Junior Dolphins program will work to educate coaches, parents and youth on the health and safety of football with a strong emphasis on character development. Junior Dolphins is building the next generation of Dolphins Fans.

Hard Rock Stadium Lights Up in United Bid Committee Colors in Advance of World Cup Vote on June 13, 2018   Download PDF version

June 11, 2018

Hard Rock Stadium Lights Up in United Bid Committee Colors in Advance of World Cup Vote on June 13, 2018

Miami Gardens, FL – Hard Rock Stadium on June 11 and 12 will light up in the United Bid Committee colors of blue, red and green in advance of FIFA’s vote for the World Cup 2026 vote on June 13, 2018 in Moscow, Russia.

Please find in the link at the top a high resolution image of Hard Rock Stadium illuminated. Please credit Hard Rock Stadium for the image.

CMN Sports Partners with Relevent to Present Colombia vs. Venezuela Sept. 7 at Hard Rock Stadium   Download PDF version

June 11, 2018

CMN Sports Partners with Relevent to Present Colombia vs. Venezuela Sept. 7 at Hard Rock Stadium

Pre-Sale Starts June 15; Public On Sale Set for June 18

MIAMI (June 11, 2018) — CMN Sports announced that it has partnered with Relevent to present an international soccer friendly on Friday, Sept. 7 in South Florida. The game will pit South American rivals Colombia and Venezuela at Miami Gardens’ Hard Rock Stadium.

Tickets for the match will go on sale on Monday, June 18 at 10 a.m. via Ticketmaster.com or by calling 1-800-745-3000. A pre-sale will start on Friday, June 15 at 10 a.m.

“CMN Sports is excited to partner with Relevent to showcase these talented teams,” said Henry Cárdenas, President of CMN Sports. “Colombia is a World Cup contender and has shown enormous potential, making them a very tough opponent for Venezuela. We hope fans will enjoy this South American rivalry at one of the most iconic stadiums in the country.”

Currently ranked 16th in the world by FIFA, Colombia earned their ticket to Russia/2018 after a hard-fought 1-1 draw with Peru on Oct. 10, 2017 in Lima. Bayern Munich superstar James Rodriguez slotted home his second-half effort to give Los Cafeteros their seventh berth at the grand tournament. On June 19, Head Coach José Pékerman will lead his side against Japan, followed by matches against Poland on June 24 and Senegal on June 28 in group play.

“Relevent is committed to bringing the incredible culture and enthusiasm of international soccer to the U.S. and this match is sure to deliver that excitement to new and established fans alike,” said Charlie Stillitano, Co-Founder and Executive Chairman of Relevent. “We look forward to celebrating both of these national teams and building even further on a major summer of soccer.”

In six World Cup appearances, Colombia saw its best performance at Brazil in 2014 when it reached the quarterfinals but fell to the host country. The Tricolor have made 21 appearances at Copa América, winning the tournament in 2001 while being runners-up in 1975.

Besides the deft Rodriguez, Colombia’s experienced roster includes veteran goalkeeper David Ospina (Arsenal), defenders Santiago Arias (PSV) and Davinson Sanchez (Tottenham), midfielder Juan Cuadrado (Juventus) and forward/captain Radamel Falcao (Monaco).

Venezuela, the only South American nation never to have earned a berth at the FIFA World Cup, is currently led by former international goalkeeper Rafael Dudamel. Given its recent call-ups, La Vinotinto seem to have set new World Cup aspirations by fielding a mix of veteran players and rising stars including captain Tomás Rincón, defenders José Velásquez (Veracruz) and Rolf Feltscher (L.A. Galaxy), midfielder Júnior Moreno (D.C. United) and forward Josef Martínez (Atlanta United).

Under Dudamel, Venezuela reached the quarterfinals of the Copa América Centenario in 2016. The CONMEBOL nation, currently ranked 39th in the world by FIFA, saw its most successful Copa América campaign in 2011 when it reached the semifinals but fell to Paraguay to finish fourth in the 43rd edition of the tournament.

Miami Dolphins Foundation Announces Nat Moore Scholarship Fund and Recipients   Download PDF version

June 7, 2018

Miami Dolphins Foundation Announces Nat Moore Scholarship Fund and Recipients

The Miami Dolphins Foundation announced a new initiative within its education impact area, embracing a long-held South Floridian’s legacy by housing the Nat Moore Scholarship Fund.

The Nat Moore Scholarship Fund’s mission is to provide the youth of Miami-Dade, Broward, Palm Beach and Monroe counties with the financial resources needed to pursue avenues of education and training for employment readiness. The Fund is expressly designed to bolster efforts to bridge a gap between receiving financial assistance and obtaining a degree or vocational diploma.

“South Florida has shaped and influenced so much of who I am as an individual, teammate, professional and leader. I have made it my mission in life to create opportunities for the youth raised here to develop into educated community citizens dedicated to making a difference,” Nat Moore said. “The Miami Dolphins’ exemplary commitment to the community was an example I followed as a player and now working closely with our employees and alumni. The Dolphins are the best entity, so well versed in giving back to education, for creating this fund in perpetuity.”

The Fund is a continuation of the Nat Moore Foundation, which started in 1998 to serve the youth of South Florida through education. The Miami Dolphins Foundation through the Nat Moore Scholarship Fund is committed to raising $10 million in 10 years to fund educational opportunities for South Florida youth. This commitment will foster the next generation of industry and community leaders by providing students who are achieving academically and who give back to their communities with the opportunity to attain their educational goals.

Five recipients were the first to be awarded the Nat Moore Scholarship Fund at the recent Fins Weekend. These graduating seniors were selected through an application process that showcased community service, leadership, financial need and academic standing.

2018 Nat Moore Scholarship Fund Recipients:

  • Jaquan Starling
    • High School: Palm Beach Gardens High School, Palm Beach County
    • University: Florida International University, Modesto A. Maidique Campus
    • Major: Mechanical Engineering
  • Deneisha Dickinson
    • High School: Miami Carol City Senior High, Miami-Dade County
    • University: Bethune-Cookman University
    • Major: Psychology
    • Minor: Pre-Law Studies
  • Leilani Fleites-Fernandez
    • High School: Miami Arts Studio, Miami-Dade County
    • University: Florida State University
    • Major: Pre-Clinical Professions
  • Andrew Lazara
    • High School: Miami Springs Senior High School, Miami-Dade County
    • University: University of South Florida
    • Major: Biomedical Sciences on a Pre-Pharmacy Track
  • Elba Jimena Garcia
    • High School: Young Women’s Preparatory Academy
    • College: Miami-Dade Honors College, Wolfson Campus
    • Major: Biology (with Pre-Medical Track)

One of the most celebrated players in Dolphins history, Moore was drafted in the third round of the 1974 draft (78th overall) out of the University of Florida. Moore spent his entire 13-year NFL career as one of the most productive offensive players in Dolphins’ history. Moore earned All-Pro recognition and was a Pro Bowl selection in 1977. He was named the team’s Most Outstanding Receiver for six straight years (1974-79). On December 5, 1999, the Dolphins organization honored Moore as the 12th honoree and second receiver to be inducted into the Dolphin Honor Roll. He also is one of 15 former Dolphins to be inducted into the Florida Sports Hall of Fame.

Establishing a positive reputation on and off the field led Moore to be named the Dolphins’ 1984 NFL “Man of the Year,” an honor bestowed on the player who gives outstanding service to his community, and earned him the 1985 Byron White Humanitarian Award for his service to his team, community and country. In recognition of Moore’s impact in South Florida, Dolphins Founder Joe Robbie in 1987 renamed the Dolphins’ community service award to The Nat Moore Community Service Award. This award is given each year to a Miami Dolphins player recognized for his involvement in the South Florida community.

In 1988, he founded the Nat Moore Foundation, which has distributed more than $2 million in scholarships and grants to youth and organizations in South Florida. The Miami Dolphins Foundation is proud to continue the legacy for a former Dolphin dedicated to giving back through education.

Miami Dolphins Host Glades Central Community High School at Minicamp Practice   Download PDF version

June 6, 2018

#LetsPlayFootball

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Miami Dolphins Host Glades Central Community High School at Minicamp Practice

Davie, Fla. – The Miami Dolphins today hosted the Glades Central Community High School football team at their Minicamp practice. The team was given a tour of the Baptist Health Training Facility at Nova Southeastern University and heard from Miami Dolphins General Manager Chris Grier about enjoying their high school football experience and challenging themselves on and off the field to reach their goals.

The Glades Central football team also had the opportunity to watch the Dolphins practice and meet with current players on the field. Following practice, the athletes had lunch provided by Publix.

“I’m extremely honored to have our guys come down and watch the Dolphins just to see how professionals practice and the tempo of practice,” Glades Central Community High School Head Football Coach Jessie Hester said. “It was awesome for our kids to hear from the leader of an organization about what it takes to make it here, all the pitfalls to avoid. Those kids learned some really valuable lessons today.”

“I was excited to see Ryan Tannehill, his footwork. I saw his three-step drop, five-step drop and his release and high pointing the ball,” Glades Central Community High School junior quarterback Davius Richard said. “What I took from Grier is nothing is easy, but it’s possible. Nobody has limitations, so whatever you want, strive for it.”

The Junior Dolphins program encourages youth players and coaches to teach, learn and play football in a fun and safe environment. The Junior Dolphins program is designed to give kids access to learn the fundamentals of football using the NFL’s top resources. To grow the game, the Junior Dolphins program will work to educate coaches, parents and youth on the health and safety of football with a strong emphasis on character development. Junior Dolphins is building the next generation of Dolphins Fans.

Miami Dolphins sign 3 draft picks   Download PDF version

June 6, 2018

Miami Dolphins sign 3 draft picks

MIAMI – The Miami Dolphins today announced they have signed three of their 2018 draft picks: linebacker Jerome Baker, tight end Durham Smythe and running back Kalen Ballage.

Baker was picked in the third round at No. 73 overall. He was a three-year letterman (2015-17) and two-year starter at Ohio State, where played in 33 career games with 25 starts. Baker totaled 158 tackles (90 solo), seven sacks, two interceptions, five passes defensed, one forced fumble and three fumble recoveries. He was named All-Big Ten honorable mention as a junior in 2017 and a sophomore in 2016. Baker was a college teammate of fellow Dolphins linebacker Raekwon McMillan.

Smythe was the first of Miami’s two fourth-round selections at No. 123 overall. He was a four-year letterman (2014-17) and two-year starter at Notre Dame, appearing in 41 games with 28 starts. Smythe started all 13 games as a senior in 2017 and recorded 15 receptions for 244 yards (16.3 avg.) and one touchdown. His blocking helped the school set a single-season rushing record with 3,503 rushing yards.

Ballage was a fourth-round pick at No. 131 overall. He was a four-year letterman (2014-17) and two-year starter at Arizona State. Ballage finished his collegiate career with 450 carries for 1,984 yards (4.4 avg.) and 27 touchdowns. He also totaled 82 receptions for 684 yards (8.3 avg.) and two touchdowns. His 27 rushing touchdowns were sixth in school history. As a junior in 2016, Ballage totaled 16 rushing touchdowns, which were second in the Pac 12 and 26th nationally.

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