Trophy
Object number2026.77.1
Date2026
MediumMetal; Wood; Paint
Credit LineGift of Willie Thrower Foundation
DescriptionMetal trophy on a black, wooden base. Metal trophy shows a man in a football uniform and pads in the process of a throwing a football; figure's left foot is stepped forward and right foot has it's heel lifted with his left hand open and his right hand holding a football. Figure is wearing a helmet with a single bar across the lower chin. Figure is attached to a square, metal pedestal that sits on a rectangular, wooden base that is painted black.DimensionsHeight x Width x Depth: 18 x 12.875 x 11.813 in. (45.7 x 32.7 x 30 cm)InscriptionsNumber on front and back of jersey: "14".
Historical NotesCast of the Willie Thrower Memorial Award, created in 2026 and donated to the Heinz History Center. This award was created in honor of Willie Thrower, who was from New Kensington, Pennsylvania, and played for Michigan State during their 1952 National Championship. He then became the first Black quarterback of the modern era in the NFL by playing for the Chicago Bears in 1953. The inaugural award was presented in 2020, and it goes to the top quarterback in Western Pennsylvania for their exceptional talent on the field, as well as character and leadership. The award is modeled after the statue of Thrower outside the Valley High School stadium.Label TextOn October 18, 1953, New Kensington, PA native and Chicago Bear’s player Willie Thrower became the first black quarterback to take a snap in the modern NFL. This trophy, now awarded annually to the outstanding high school quarterback in Western PA, recognizes exceptional talent on the field, as well as character and leadership. Modeled after the statue of Thrower outside the Valley High School stadium, the award preserves Thrower’s legacy as a barrier breaking athlete.
Related person
Willie Lee Thrower Sr.
Related institution
Valley High School
Related institution
National Football League
On View
Not on view
1963
1949
1948-1949
