Rose Bowl Institute Partners With 2nd & 7 to Boost Youth Literacy

The Rose Bowl Institute’s Athletes in Schools program has joined forces with 2nd & 7’s Role Model Reading Program to expand literacy outreach and mentorship for children in need. The partnership aims to inspire young readers by connecting them with student-athletes who serve as positive role models while promoting sportsmanship, leadership, and citizenship through their “Sportsmanship as Citizenship” civic literacy program.

“Our country needs a stronger focus on sportsmanship values and civility,” said James Washington, President of the Rose Bowl Institute. “We’re honored to partner with such respected organizations to address this critical issue. By connecting students with inspiring athletes, we hope to inspire and encourage a deeper understanding.”

The initiative sends hall of famers, Olympians, and former professional athletes to high schools nationwide, creating a connective environment that highlights the link between good sportsmanship and civility. After these visits, students are introduced to the 2nd & 7 reading program, enabling them to take the lessons learned back to elementary schools and continue fostering positive values in their communities.

2nd & 7, founded in 1999 by former Ohio State University football players Luke Fickell (current head football coach at the University of Wisconsin), Ryan Miller, and Mike Vrabel (current head coach for the New England Patriots), has generously donated books to support the program. All three founders were part of the 1997 Rose Bowl Game championship in Pasadena for the Buckeyes victory over Arizona State. Inspired by their involvement in community outreach as student-athletes, they launched the organization in central Ohio to promote literacy and provide positive role models for children.

“I am so excited about the partnership between the Rose Bowl Institute’s Athletes in Schools program and 2nd & 7’s mission to provide free books and role models to children in the Pasadena community and beyond,” said Ryan Miller, 2nd & 7 Co-Founder. “During my time as a collegiate student-athlete, I learned that my sphere of influence extended far beyond the playing field. After finishing my football career in the 1997 Rose Bowl, I helped start 2nd & 7 with the mission of providing free books and positive role models to kids in need while encouraging young athletes to pay it forward. Together, we can inspire a new generation of readers across the country.”

The purpose of the Athletes in Schools program is to interest American youth in becoming good citizens on the field and in their communities. Student-athletes will visit local schools, emphasize the importance of reading, and provide a free 2nd & 7 book to each student. Athletes have the students’ attention and respect and can effectively convey these important messages.

For more information on 2nd & 7, visit www.secondandseven.com. For more information on the Rose Bowl Institute, email rosebowlinstitute@rosebowlstadium.com or call 626-577-3100.