Youth soccer is growing in Maryland, and Adam Rudell is playing a key role.
The Ravens' senior manager of marketing and football operations has been selected to receive the Jerry Mears Football Award for his contributions to the promotion of football throughout Maryland.
This prestigious honor was selected by the Maryland Football Coaches Association and named for Hall of Fame coach Jerry E. Mears, who coached two Arundel County high school teams.this is 35th Announcement of annual awards.
Rudel has played a key role in Maryland's continued participation in the Big 33 Classic All-Star Game, where Maryland's best high school senior football players compete against Pennsylvania's best players. This is the oldest All-Star Game played in the United States, and there has never been a Super Bowl without former Big 33 players on the roster. Ravens receiver/returner Deonte Hardy played in the Big 33.
“Adam is a true ally for football coaches at all levels in the Baltimore area,” said Mark Meszaros, president of the Maryland Football Coaches Association. “With Adam's help, we were able to hold tryouts, skill development camps, and practices at both the Ravens' indoor practice facility and M&T Bank Stadium. Our connection with the Ravens strengthens our participation. It has become a valuable tool.''In addition to participating in games by member schools, it is also possible to participate in the coaches' association.
“None of that growth would have happened without Adam Rudell's help and support. He is a continued champion of Maryland football and we are grateful for his help and support. I am grateful.”
Past recipients of the award have included legendary Baltimore sportscasters Vince Bagley, John Steadman, Keith Mills, Johnny Holiday and Bruce Cunningham, and Rudel joins an impressive group of others. I did. Ed McTaggart of Liddell Sports also received this award this year.
“It is the Ravens' obligation to give back to the local high school football community,” Rudell said. “As a former high school football player, I am honored to serve in this role and honored to represent a franchise with such a great reputation.”
Rudel also helped launch the Frederick County Public Schools Girls Flag Football Pilot League last fall. The league was a success with 280 girls from 10 schools participating in the program. The league is the first of its kind in Maryland and plans to expand this fall to public schools in Montgomery, Baltimore City and Washington County.
Rudel received the honor at a ceremony on April 27.th Terps spring football games began with a ceremony at the University of Maryland.
