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Miami Dolphins waive Hickey   Download PDF version

May 29, 2018

Miami Dolphins waive Hickey

MIAMI – The Miami Dolphins today announced they have waived tackle Sean Hickey.

Hickey originally joined the Dolphins on Aug. 15, 2017 and spent the entire 2017 season on Miami’s practice squad. Throughout his NFL career, he’s also spent stints on the practice squads of Minnesota (2016), N.Y. Jets (2016), New England (2015) and New Orleans (2015). Hickey originally joined the NFL as an undrafted college free agent with New Orleans on May 4, 2015 after starting three seasons (2012-14) at Syracuse.

Miami Dolphins sign Matthews   Download PDF version

May 25, 2018

Miami Dolphins sign Matthews

MIAMI – The Miami Dolphins today announced they have signed center Mike Matthews.

Matthews spent the 2017 season with the Pittsburgh Steelers but missed the year with a season-ending injury during training camp. He spent the 2016 offseason and training camp with the Cleveland Browns after originally signing with them as an undrafted college free agent on May 5, 2016. Matthews was a three-year starter (2013-15) at Texas A&M, where he played in 40 games with 33 starts.

Name Pos. Hgt. Wgt. Birthdate Exp. College Hometown Acq.
Mike Matthews C 6-2 300 1/27/94 1 Texas A&M ’16 Missouri City, Texas FA, ‘18

 

Miami Dolphins Host Boca Raton High School at OTA Practice   Download PDF version

May 24, 2018

#LetsPlayFootball

***Image Credit: Miami Dolphins***

Images: https://www.dropbox.com/sh/yo49h7x9muq4p8z/AAAZwkoCFp5q69fwnVBdZUgha?dl=0

Miami Dolphins Host Boca Raton High School at OTA Practice

Davie, Fla. – The Miami Dolphins today hosted the Boca Raton High School football team at their Organized Team Activity (OTA) practice. The team was given a tour of the Baptist Health Training Facility at Nova Southeastern University and heard from Miami Dolphins Youth Programs Ambassador and Dolphins alum Twan Russell about commitment and dedication.

“The Dolphins are a first-class organization. They really care about the youth in our community and having programs like this is really what sets them apart from a lot of other organizations,” Boca Raton High School Head Football Coach Brandon Walker said. “This has been a great experience for our young guys to see these professional athletes work, truly work, to get better at their craft. I think it motivates and inspires our kids that have this dream to play at a high level to get in there and put in the work.”

The Boca Raton 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 got to meet a lot of the new players, a lot of the vets. I got to meet Cameron Wake. That was really good. I got to learn some moves from him. It was really beneficial,” Boca Raton High School junior defensive lineman and tight end Brandon Holcomb said.

This spring, the Boca Raton football team participated in the RISE Leadership Program. The RISE Leadership Program is designed to empower sports administrators, coaches and athletes to be leaders in discussing and addressing matters of racism, prejudice, diversity and inclusivity within their teams, schools and communities. The multifaceted program increases awareness, builds skills and creates safe spaces to have difficult conversations. Participants learn about the history of race and sports, the power of sports to drive change and how they can become leaders in improving race relations. Founded in 2015 by Miami Dolphins owner Stephen M. Ross, RISE is a nonprofit organization dedicated to harnessing the unifying power of sports to improve race relations and drive social progress.

“This is my second year doing RISE and the kids had a great experience. To be able to have great communication about social issues and topics, for these kids to really be able to have that dialogue, is phenomenal. It’s a great program that hopefully we do for years to come,” Walker said.

“The RISE Leadership program, it was very informational and we got to learn a whole bunch of new things and get a whole bunch of perspectives from it as well, because we have such a diverse team,” Holcomb said.

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 Host Coral Gables Senior High School at OTA Practice   Download PDF version

May 23, 2018

#LetsPlayFootball

***Image Credit: Miami Dolphins***

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Miami Dolphins Host Coral Gables Senior High School at OTA Practice

Davie, Fla. – The Miami Dolphins today hosted the Coral Gables Senior High School football team at their Organized Team Activity (OTA) practice. The team was given a tour of the Baptist Health Training Facility at Nova Southeastern University and heard from Miami Dolphins Youth Programs Ambassador and Dolphins alum Twan Russell about mental toughness.

“It’s wonderful giving them the ability to see the guys who play their game, but of course, at the highest level (with the) the speed, the tempo,” Coral Gables Senior High School Head Football Coach Roger Pollard said. “We were able to meet with Twan Russell who spoke to the team about mental toughness. These are a lot of the things we do as high school coaches, but now they’re hearing it from guys at the elite level and hopefully it pays off.”

The Cavaliers also had the opportunity to watch the Dolphins practice and meet with current players on the field, including Dolphins running backs Frank Gore and Buddy Howell who are graduates of Coral Gables. Following practice, the athletes had lunch provided by Publix.

“It’s fantastic, especially for these guys being able to see Frank Gore knowing that he is from the school that they’re in right now and seeing the success that he’s had, being able to see his career. … Being from Coconut Grove, which a lot of our players are, it’s great,” Pollard said.

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 and Special Olympics Florida, Broward and Miami-Dade Counties Host Football Clinic   Download PDF version

May 22, 2018

***Image Credit: Miami Dolphins***

https://www.dropbox.com/sh/9gk32y3en4ar6h6/AACE-54YBVfBpprNNQFddl_ya?dl=0

Miami Dolphins and Special Olympics Florida, Broward and Miami-Dade Counties Host Football Clinic

Davie, FL – Members of the Miami Dolphins rookie class hosted 110 Special Olympics athletes from Broward and Miami-Dade counties at the Baptist Health Training Facility to promote physical fitness in the South Florida community.

“To be able to provide our athletes with opportunities like this is truly remarkable,” Special Olympics Florida President & CEO Sherry Wheelock said. “Thanks to our longstanding partnership with the Miami Dolphins, our athletes not only are introduced to some of the finest athletic training available but also have the chance to extend their team of supporters to include these amazing professional athletes whose support inspires our athletes to continue to work hard, celebrate the joy of sports and achieve their best.”

All Miami Dolphins rookies participated in the event, including Johnathan Alston, Cornell Armstrong, Jerome Baker, Kaylen 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.

“Seeing the kids out here having fun, you get to see how much joy they have playing the game. That is the best part,” Miami Dolphins LB and third-round draft pick Jerome Baker said. “This is a blessing to be part of the Dolphins. This is our second week here and our second community event. It shows how much the Dolphins care about the community.”

Dolphins rookies along with officers from Fort Lauderdale Police Department (FLPD) will coach and referee flag football games played by Special Olympics athletes.

“Over five years, I have been very successful in Special Olympics. Today was great to be back playing football. It was great to meet the Dolphins players,” Special Olympics athlete Daniel Fundora said. “Special Olympics is my home.”

MSC Seaside Sets The Stage For Miami Dolphins Cheerleaders Annual Photo Shoot   Download PDF version

May 22, 2018

MSC Seaside Sets The Stage For Miami Dolphins Cheerleaders Annual Photo Shoot

The Miami Dolphins Cheerleaders captured images on board the stunning cruise ship and in the beautiful eastern Caribbean

FORT LAUDERDALE, Fla. (May 22, 2018) – The Miami Dolphins Cheerleaders, one of the most beloved cheer organizations in the National Football League, have officially wrapped up their 2018 annual photo shoot, featuring MSC Cruises’ newest megaship, MSC Seaside, as the backdrop. More than 20 of the Miami Dolphins Cheerleaders sailed the sunny Caribbean this May, donning lifestyle, fitness, swim and vacation-wear while capturing the ship’s iconic and industry-first design. The Miami Dolphins Cheerleaders Annual is set to be released at the Miami Dolphins Cheerleaders Fashion Show in Fall 2018.

“We are delighted that MSC Seaside was chosen as the ideal stage for capturing the images for the Miami Dolphins Cheerleaders Annual,” said Roberto Fusaro, President of MSC Cruises USA. “Whether strolling along the waterfront boardwalk, having fun in the multi-story aqua park, or relaxing in the MSC Aurea Spa, it was a true honor to host the Miami Dolphins Cheerleaders and provide them the opportunity to experience and showcase our beautiful new ship.”

While in port, the Cheerleaders experienced the bustling eastern Caribbean destinations of Philipsburg, St. Maarten, San Juan, Puerto Rico and Nassau, Bahamas. Touring each of the cities and interacting with locals, the cheerleaders captured hotspots like the lush El Yunque Forest and historic Old San Juan in Puerto Rico; popular beaches such as Baie Rouge and the downtown shopping area of St. Maarten; and the picturesque Balmoral Island near Nassau, to name a few.

“We’re excited about our relationship with MSC Cruises and the spectacular Caribbean destinations the MSC Seaside opens up for our fans,” Miami Dolphins Senior Vice President & Chief Commercial Officer Todd Kline said. “The recent travels including our fans, alumni and cheerleaders are just the beginning of what we feel will be a thriving partnership with MSC Cruise and their world-class ships to benefit our truly diverse fan base.”

Beyond wrapping their annual photo shoot on board, the Cheerleaders also interacted with guests during a variety of engaging activities throughout the cruise. The sailing kicked off with a warm Miami Dolphins welcome with the cheerleaders and mascot “TD” taking over the terminal to cheer guests into their vacation. On board, cruisers and cheerleaders mingled with activities like the sail away party, multiple youth cheer clinics, photo opportunities and special performances to entertain guests.

The Cheerleaders’ annual photoshoot on board MSC Seaside came on the heels of the Miami Dolphins’ first ever Fan Cruise on board MSC Seaside in March. The cruise welcomed football legends like Kim Bokamper, Terry Kirby, Sam Madison, Nat Moore, Joe Rose and Patrick Surtain, for a week of themed activities. For Dol-fans still eager to get up close and personal with these Dolphins alumni, the team will host its second cruise in 2019.

The Miami Dolphins Fan Cruise is the result of a three-year, one-of-a-kind partnership between MSC Cruises and the world-renowned NFL team. The themed Fan Cruise will be hosted annually over the next three years, introducing exciting activities and opportunities to interact with the Dolphins’ alumni in person.

For a behind the scenes look of the Miami Dolphins Cheerleaders Annual, visit here to download photos and video (image credit: Miami Dolphins).

About MSC Seaside

MSC Seaside is MSC Cruises’ revolutionary new flagship launched in December 2017 and sailing from Miami to the Caribbean. Known as “The Ship that Follows the Sun,” MSC Seaside’s unique innovative beach condo design brings guests closer to the sea and helps them enjoy the outdoors like never before. Guests can stroll along the widest waterfront boardwalk at sea, with two glass-floor catwalks and an array of outdoor seating areas so that guests can enjoy al fresco dining and drinking or simply strolling by the sea. MSC Seaside also boasts expanded internationally-inspired dining, including a partnership with pan-Asian pioneer Roy Yamaguchi who has created the Asian Market Kitchen on board. The ship’s MSC Aurea Spa is the largest Balinese spa at sea, with a unique thermal area complete with multiple saunas, a Hammam room, a snow room and more for ultimate relaxation. Thrilling activities on board, ensuring that cruisers of all ages are always entertained, include an interactive aqua parks with four slides; two of the longest zip lines at sea; full-size bowling lanes; an F1 simulator; and Broadway-style performances each night of the cruise.

About MSC Cruises

MSC Cruises is the world’s largest privately-owned cruise company and the number one cruise line in Europe and South America. A game-changer in the world of cruises, the Company has achieved 800% growth in its first ten years, building a global reputation in the industry and one of the youngest cruise fleets at sea. MSC Cruises is headquartered in Geneva, Switzerland.

The MSC Cruises fleet currently comprises 14 ultra-modern, highly innovative and elegantly designed ships, offering an unparalleled vacation experience with always delicious and authentic food, award-winning entertainment, plenty of relaxation, comfortable accommodation, as well as impeccable service and expertise.

Under its ambitious industry-unprecedented €10.5 billion (≈ $12.4 billion USD) investment plan, the fleet is set to expand to 24 mega-cruise ships by 2026. To date, MSC Cruises has designed six new ship classes, all prototypes that push the boundaries of marine architecture and design.

MSC Cruises feels a deep responsibility towards the physical and human environments in which it operates. The Company operates with the greatest respect for the world’s oceans and is on an ongoing journey to further develop innovative ways of lowering the environmental impact of its cruise passages.

MSC Cruises’ vacation experiences are sold across the globe through a distribution network in 67 countries. The Company employs over 17,000 people worldwide, both ashore and on board its ships. MSC Cruises is part of MSC Group which is comprised of leading transport and logistics companies.

More information at http://www.mscpressarea.com/en_US

About The Miami Dolphins

The Miami Dolphins, owned by Chair of the Board & Managing General Partner Stephen M. Ross, are the oldest continuous major-league professional sports franchise in the state of Florida. The Dolphins were founded by Joe Robbie in 1965 and began play in the American Football League as an expansion team in 1966 and joined the NFL as part of the AFL-NFL merger in 1970. The organization has played in five Super Bowls, winning championships following the 1972 (VII) and 1973 (VIII) seasons. The franchise also has won five conference championships and 13 division championships. The Dolphins play home games in Miami Gardens at Hard Rock Stadium and train at Baptist Health Training Facility at Nova Southeastern University in Davie, Florida. For more information, visit dolphins.com.

5000 Role Models of Excellence Foundation and Miami Dolphins Team to Host Prestigious Annual Academic Signing Ceremony at Hard Rock Stadium   Download PDF version

May 18, 2018

***Image Credit: Miami Dolphins***

https://www.dropbox.com/sh/tqufp0vamiadrie/AACbjwIjZqrhqSMryefjTQFHa?dl=0

5000 Role Models of Excellence Foundation and Miami Dolphins Team to Host Prestigious Annual Academic Signing Ceremony at Hard Rock Stadium

MIAMI – The 5000 Role Models of Excellence Foundation and Miami Dolphins hosted the  Prestigious Annual Academic Signing Ceremony on Friday, May 18, 2018. Fifty-eight (58) Wilson Scholars signed scholarships to the colleges and universities of their choice.

The program’s founder, Congresswoman Frederica S. Wilson (D-FL 24), shared, “When you look around, you will see that the 5000 Role Models is multicultural, multiethnic and the audience is. So it brings the boys together in their brotherhood. They’re part of the brotherhood. … We’re so proud to be partners with Mr. Ross. He has stepped forward to let us know that he cares about the community, and especially he cares about the children in our community.” The program has awarded millions of dollars in scholarships since its founding in 1993.

The event is one of two cornerstones of a long-term partnership with the Miami Dolphins, centering on social justice, education and police and youth relations. The second signature event is the Miami Dolphins and 5000 Role Models Police and Youth Conference, held this year in February 2018. In addition, the Dolphins will continue preexisting 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.

“The Miami Dolphins have a strong commitment to education and we’re honored to be part of this event with the 5000 Roles Models of Excellence Project to celebrate and recognize our South Florida youth,” Miami Dolphins Senior Vice President of Communications & Community Affairs Jason Jenkins said. “We have a strong commitment and investment from our organization, led by Stephen Ross, to leveling the playing field in our community and look forward to following these young men’s growth as they take the next step to college.”

The Wilson Scholars wore their custom suits and signature neckties donated by Sean John and during the event, they received new laptops.

Miami Dolphins and United Way of Broward County Celebrate Local Students’ Engagement in Digital Character Education Program   Download PDF version

May 15, 2018

***Image Credit: Miami Dolphins***

https://www.dropbox.com/sh/e3q5cbjj4my698n/AAABhjS6NLE9t8Hrq03da8S7a?dl=0

Miami Dolphins and United Way of Broward County Celebrate Local Students’ Engagement in Digital Character Education Program

Coral Springs, FL (May 15th, 2018) – The Miami Dolphins rookies, United Way of Broward County and educators from Forest Glen Middle School today recognized middle school students active in the Character PlaybookTM program, an education initiative focused on youth character development and building healthy relationships. Character PlaybookTM is the latest innovation in the more than 40-year partnership between the NFL and United Way. The Miami Dolphins and United Way of Broward County bring this web-based program to schools throughout Broward County, and have reached more than 2,700 students in almost 50 schools since the program’s inception in spring 2016.

Students at Forest Glen Middle School received certificates today for their outstanding work within the program. The event featured remarks from students, administration and United Way of Broward County Director of Educational Initiatives Robin Molan. Students also enjoyed a panel led by Miami Dolphins players Johnathan Alston, Cornell Armstrong, Jerome Baker, Kaylen 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 to discuss character development and decision-making.

“United Way of Broward County is proud to partner with the NFL for the Character Playbook program,” said Kathleen Cannon, President and CEO United Way of Broward County. “This initiative is vital for children in our community to develop applicable life skills as well as provide them with the tools needed to establish healthy relationships during an important time in their life.”

“Community is important because community helped me get through what I went through when I was younger, when I was these kids’ age – when I was exactly these kids’ age,” Miami Dolphins first-round draft pick and S Minkah Fitzpatrick said. “Just teaching them about community, about character. They can take something real small from me and just apply it.”

The Character PlaybookTM initiative was launched nationally during the 2016 NFL Draft and is powered by education technology leader EverFi, which works with more than 20,000 K-12 schools. Character PlaybookTM modules are designed to help students develop healthy relationships and social norms. The program will be evaluated by measuring student knowledge gains as well as attitude and behavioral change.

“I am so proud of the work that Mrs. Meyer and the students put into learning and applying the Character Playbook program. This course aided our teachers in developing their Peer Counseling curriculum,” said Ronald Forsman, Forest Glen Middle School Principal. “Character Playbook is instrumental in the Social and Emotional Learning of the students who completed the program, and as a result has impacted their peers as well. On behalf of everyone at Forest Glen, we are grateful for the partnership with the Miami Dolphins and United Way of Broward County. A winning collaboration making a difference in the lives our students.”