Mike Ditka's Gridiron Greats Hosts its 9th Annual Hall of Fame Induction Gala

Gold Jacket and Chicago Bears legend Mike Ditka recently hosted the 9th annual Mike Ditka Hall of Fame Gala in Las Vegas. Proceeds from the event benefited the Gridiron Greats, as well as After the Impact Fund for Veterans and Legends which facilitates comprehensive treatment and provides a support network for military veterans, professional athletes and their families.

There were many Hall of Famers on hand that were honored during the event including Dave Casper and Franco Harris who were part of the Gridiron Greats Class of 2017.

In addition, Sylvia Mackey, wife of former NFL legend John Mackey presented her namesake Award to Liz Nicholson Sullivan (married to former Cleveland Brown, Gerry Sullivan). Liz is a leading advocate in the Chicagoland area and throughout the country for retired NFL players, their wives and families. Through her advocacy work with Gridiron Greats and After the Impact Fund, Liz partners with other wives and families to promote awareness of untreated head injuries. She has been a strong, effective voice for thousands of NFL families as they seek solutions for improving the safety of future generations of players. 

Gold Jacket Marv Levy presented his first Impact Award focused on recognizing a man or woman who serves or served in the Armed Forces, has exceptional leadership qualities, serves in the community and is honorable, honest and courageous. The first Marv Levy Impact Award will go to Nate Boyer, who is a former Army Green Beret and veteran of the Iraq and Afghanistan wars. Boyer went on to play for the Seattle Seahawks and has inspired others that "anything is possible."