Football Foundation presents Rep. McNamara with Distinguished American Award

The Emo DiNitto/Rhode Island Chapter of the National Football Foundation and College Hall of Fame presented Rep. Joseph M. McNamara (D-Dist. 19, Warwick, Cranston) with its Distinguished American Award during the organization’s 37th annual awards dinner Monday night at the Crowne Plaza Hotel in Warwick.

McNamara was a standout football player at Pilgrim High School and was named to the Providence Journal’s All-State team during his senior year in 1968. During the ceremony, he spoke of the experience as a transformative moment in his life that opened doors, including enrollment at Boston University. He then went on to address the student-athletes in attendance:

“My advice to each and every one of you is to take advantage of the tremendous opportunities you are being offered. Also, use the discipline and determination you have demonstrated in football to succeed in the classroom and life. We all know that it takes teamwork to win games. I would be remiss if I didn’t ask you to consider a career in education or serving your community through public service. I am very grateful for all of the opportunities that I have been given and will continue to work every day to ensure that future generations have the opportunity to achieve their dreams.”

McNamara, who chairs the House Education Committee, was honored along with coach Arthur Kershaw, who received the Emo DiNitto Contribution to Amateur Football Award, and Kevin Deignan, who received the Special Official’s Award.