Furrey a finalist for Walter Payton Award
From ClevelandBrowns.com - January 24, 2010

Browns wide receiver/defensive back Mike Furrey has been selected as one of three finalists for the 2009 Walter Payton NFL Man of the Year Award,the league announced on Sunday.

Renamed in 1999 after legendary Chicago Bears Hall of Fame running back Walter Payton, this honor is the only league award that recognizes a player's off the field community service activities as well as his playing excellence.

The honor marks the first time the Browns have had one of the three finalists since their return in 1999. Washington Redskins linebacker London Fletcher and Kansas City Chiefs guard Brian Waters join Furrey as the three finalists.

The winner will be announced live on CBS before Super Bowl XLIV on Sunday, February 7. Furrey, Fletcher and Waters will be in South Florida during Super Bowl week and will participate in a press conference on Friday, February 5, along with Payton's family.

"The Browns are thrilled that Mike Furrey is among the three finalists for the Walter Payton Man of the Year Award, which in my mind is one of the most prestigious individual honors because of what it stands for," said Browns President Mike Holmgren. "Mike epitomizes what it means to be a true professional athlete. His tireless efforts on the field and in the community are inspirational, and we are proud that he is a member of the Cleveland Browns."

"It's an honor to even be in the category, let alone be in the final three for this award," said Furrey. "To be able to go down to the Super Bowl and represent the Browns is a huge honor."

The three finalists were chosen by a blue-ribbon panel from the 32 team nominees for the award, all of whom receive a $1,000 donation to the charity of their choice. The three finalists will receive an additional $5,000 donation in their name. The selection panel is comprised of NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell, former NFL Commissioner Paul Tagliabue, Connie Payton, Pro Football Hall of Fame members Frank Gifford and Anthony Munoz, Giants great and Executive Director of the NFL Alumni Association George Martin, 2008 winner Kurt Warner and Sports Illustrated football writer Peter King.

The winner of the Walter Payton NFL Man of the Year Award will receive the Gladiator statue, an original art creation by the noted sculptor, Daniel Schwartz. In addition, the player's favorite charity will receive an additional $20,000 donation in his name.

Since joining the Browns in May, Furrey has made his presence felt both on and off the field. He has volunteered his time with the Cleveland Foodbank, Cleveland Christian Home, Cleveland Clinic Rehab Hospital, NFL Hometown Huddle and made numerous school visits, among other community events. Furrey supports the Cleveland Browns Foundation through annual fundraisers including the Browns Foundation Golf Outing. He encourages kids to Play 60 through Browns Fitness Zone installation projects, has autographed more than one hundred items that were sent to local auctions/fundraisers and embraces the Browns Backers Worldwide, the official fan club of the Cleveland Browns.

Furrey is also the spokesperson for Children's Hunger Alliance and visits schools to speak on the importanceof healthy food choices and staying active. He created a game day ticket program to offer incentives for some and retreat from medical treatments for kids and individuals at the Cleveland Clinic Hospital for Rehabilitation, City Mission and the Cleveland Christian Home. Guests attending Browns home games through Furrey's Fanatics program receive tickets, food vouchers, game programs and custom shirts on his behalf.

On the field, Furrey played in all 16 contests and picked up starts on both offense and defense. He finished third on the team with 23 receptions for 170 yards, while also totaling 14 tackles and two passes defensed on defense.

2009 Celebrity Bowling Party
The 2009 Mike Furrey Foundation Celebrity Bowling Party was a huge success!
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Arms Wide Open
Click for full article - HouseTrends.com

"Every year, Housetrends features dozens of beautiful homes that each have something special to offer our readers. Gracious homeowners, all with their own unique story, invite us in to see the most sacred of spaces, allowing us to catch a snapshot of their lives.
In NFL wide receiver Mike Furrey and his wife Koren’s case, the snapshot is the best part of the story. Their West Jefferson home is amazing, but going beyond just the aesthetics—to their motivations and journey—is well worth the trip." Continue

2009 Celebrity Golf Tournament Photos
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NFLPA Public Service Announcement
The players of the NFLPA have united as one team to create a PSA encouraging Americans to serve their communities. Click here to watch.

On May 4, I signed with the Cleveland Browns.  Not only is this a "Home" state team for me and my family but it is a first class organization that will provide me with a great opportunity.  I look forward to updating you all in the upcoming months.  It's a very exciting time for me and my family.  As of now I am #88 and I will get pictures of me in the Orange and Brown up as soon as we get some. 

Thanks again for your support and God Bless. 

Mike Furrey
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Mike Nominated for Byron “Whizzer” White Award
Mike has been selected as a finalist for the prestigious Byron “Whizzer” White Award, which is presented annually at the NFL PLAYERS Gala Featuring the JB Awards in Washington, D.C. The Gala recognizes NFL players who exemplify leadership, dedication, and commitment to team and community. All proceeds from the event benefit Special Olympics DC, the sole provider of year-round sports training opportunities for 2,500 children and adults with developmental disabilities in the District of Columbia.




It was a great honor to win a JB Award and to be nominated for the Byron "Whizzer" White Award.  Attending the event in Washington, DC was a once in a lifetime experience that I will never forget.  Congrats to Brian Dawkins who won. 

Ceasar Chavez Academy

Plain City Elementary