Rutgers University will retire Eric LeGrand’s No. 52 during ceremonies at the Scarlet Knights’ Sept. 14 home football game against Eastern Michigan University (1 p.m. kickoff).
LeGrand, a Colonia High School graduate, will become the first Scarlet Knights player to have his number retired in the program’s 144-year history. He has represented the spirit of Rutgers football ever since 2010, when he was paralyzed from the neck down while making a tackle vs. Army. His determination to walk again has motivated not only Rutgers football players, but inspired others throughout the country who are in similar situations. LeGrand was presented with the Jimmy V Award for Perseverance in 2012 at the ESPYs.
The 2013 Rutgers Football Kickoff Celebration will be held 5:30-8 p.m. Aug. 10 at High Point Solutions Stadium in Piscataway. Admission is free and will be held rain or shine.
Fans can meet all the Rutgers University players and coaches and get free autographs. Free 2013 Rutgers football posters will be distributed. Children’s bouncy rides will be next to the stadium, and Rutgers cheerleaders and the marching band will perform in the plaza. Food can be brought into the stadium, but food and merchandise will also be for sale.
The autograph session begins at 7 p.m., and fans are encouraged to bring their cameras.
For more information, contact Rutgers at 866-445-4678, go to the Rutgers Football Facebook page or visit Rutgers’ athletic website at www.scarletknights.com.