Former Broncos’ QB Brian Griese Earns Prestigious Award

Former Broncos quarterback Brian Griese is a staple in the Denver area. While his time with the Broncos was brief, he spent more time with the Broncos than any other team in the NFL.

During Griese’s five years with the team (1998-2002), he played in 40 games, starting 38 of them. One of Griese’s best years came in 2000 when he led the team to an 11-5 record and passed for 2,688 yards, 19 TDs, and 4 INTs.

Griese played for three other teams since his stint in Denver, and then retired in 2008.

Griese has remained busy as ever since his football career ended. He is a college football analyst for ESPN and he does radio commentary for KAO’s (AM) coverage of Broncos football.

Most importantly, however, Griese continues his work at Judi’s House in Denver. In 2002, Griese started Judi’s House to offer grief counseling and peer support groups to children and families who have been affected by death.

Bereavement is an issue close to Griese’s heart. Griese started Judi’s House in honor of his mother who died when he was 12 years old. Nine years later, Judi’s House is still going strong thanks to Griese’s efforts.

Griese’s efforts will be recognized nationally tonight as he is honored with the 2011 Patterson Award For Excellence in Sports Philanthropy. Griese is the first and only current or former NFL player to receive the award that honors the selfless spirit of people in the sports world – people that are passionate about making a difference in the lives around them.

“I’m honored to receive this recognition in memory of my late mother and on behalf of everyone who works so hard to make Judi’s House a place where no child has to feel alone in grief,” Griese said. “I am proud of the unique community we have created here. With the hard work of the staff at Judi’s House along with the amazing kids and caregivers that we work with, we are able to take a potentially devastating event in a child’s life and help give them a place where they can find support and solace.”

Congratulations to Brian Griese for this well deserved award.

To learn more about Judi’s House, go here.

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