Cecil Newton, the father of the most decorated player in the 2010 college football season will NOT be attending the Heisman ceremony in New York City on Saturday.
Cam Newton has full NCAA eligibility, but it was previously thought that he inevitably would not, and that Heisman Saturday would have kind of “grey area” surrounding it. But despite all the turmoil and allegations, here he is with Heisman hopes live and kicking. More than live and kicking, he’ll probably win the award hands down. But his dad won’t be there and here’s why:
By Paul M. Banks
Here’s Cecil Newton’s statement:
“The events to take place in New York at the Heisman Trophy ceremony this weekend will serve as a crowning moment for the athletes and their families alike.
“For all of my fifty years of life, coupled with 25 years of marriage, I have made an exhausting attempt to be a good husband, father, and generally a good person of integrity. The past 60 days have caused all that my family worked to accomplish to come into question.”
“So that my son Cam Newton can receive all the honors and congratulations that he has worked so hard to accomplish and without distraction, I have decided not to be in attendance at the Heisman ceremony, as it will perhaps rob Cam and the event of a sacred moment.”
With Deepest Respect,
Cecil Newton
On a side note, it was announced a few minutes ago that Cam Newton took home the Maxwell Award (given to the nation’s top collegiate player) and the Davey O’Brien Award (top QB). He also took home the Walter Camp Award as well.
For both awards Newton beat out Stanford’s Andrew Luck and Boise State’s Kellen Moore. During his first season at Auburn, the junior college transfer has led the top-ranked Tigers to a 12-0 record, Southeastern Conference Championship and a berth in the 2011 Tostitos BCS National Championship game against the Oregon Ducks.
The junior from College Park, Ga. has continuously demonstrated his versatility and athleticism, dominating opponents with his speed and accuracy. Newton, the nation’s top-rated passer (188.16), leads the SEC in rushing (108.38 yards) and total offense (307.54 yards). He also ranks second in the NCAA in total points responsible for (22.62 per game). He has amassed 3,998 yards of total offense and 49 touchdowns this season. Newton is one of just three players to have 20 passing and 20 rushing touchdowns in one season.
Paul M. Banks is CEO of The Sports Bank.net , a Midwest webzine. He’s also a regular contributor to the Tribune’s Chicago Now network, Walter Football.com, Yardbarker Network, and Fox Sports.com
You can follow him on Twitter @thesportsbank
He also does a regular guest spot each week for Chicagoland Sports Radio.com