I just received this notice from former Baltimore Colt Bruce Laird, who is an integral part of the "Fourth & Goal Foundation" which was set up by former Baltimore Colts alumni to advocate for and benefit retired and disabled NFL players. See the email for the winner of their recent benefit fundraiser and more about the "Fourth & Goal Foundation" below:

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Parkville, Md., March 4, 2009 – Fourth & Goal Foundation today announced that retired NFL player Lance Rentzel is the winner of a 2010 Toyota Prius donated by Toyota and the Baltimore-area Toyota dealers and raffled off by Fourth & Goal. Proceeds from the raffle benefit former NFL players in need.

The winning ticket was drawn by Paige Unitas, daughter of the late NFL Hall of Fame quarterback John Unitas, during an autograph session at Piv’s Pub (owned by former Los Angeles Ram and Denver Bronco Dave Pivec) in Cockeysville, Md., on Super Bowl Sunday.

"Through Toyota’s generous donations, we’ve raised nearly $60,000 to assist retired players in need," said Fourth & Goal President Bruce Laird. "There are far too many retired players who are suffering the aftereffects of football injuries long after their playing careers have ended. The need is great, the generosity of Toyota dealers and of retired players like Lance Rentzel is crucial, and Fourth & Goal remains committed to assisting our teammates who are hurting."

Rentzel, who played for the Minnesota Vikings, Dallas Cowboys and Los Angeles Rams during his nine-year NFL career, was one of approximately 500 NFL veterans who purchased raffle tickets in support of Fourth & Goal’s efforts.

"When I purchased some Toyota raffle tickets two months ago, all I wanted or expected in return was the gratification that comes with participating in a very worthy cause. I never imagined that I would actually win a new Prius!  In any event, I now have the opportunity to provide a member of the Rentzel family with a surprise gift, and for that, I'm extremely grateful," said Rentzel. "I would also like to take this opportunity to salute the Fourth & Goal organization for its efforts on behalf of retired players in recent years. Fourth & Goal has not only done an excellent job of raising funds for retired players in need, the organization has also played a critical role in our ongoing struggle for representation and improved pension and disability benefits."

In addition to purchasing raffle tickets, Rentzel also made a generous donation to Fourth & Goal.

The 2010 Prius is the third vehicle donated to Fourth & Goal by Toyota and the Baltimore area dealers. In 2008, Toyota donated a Toyota Tundra and in 2009, a Toyota Matrix to Fourth & Goal. Former Tampa Bay Buccaneer Steve Wilson was the winner of the Toyota in 2009.

About Fourth & Goal:

Founded by the Baltimore Colts alumni, Fourth & Goal is a national 501(c)(3) organization dedicated to advocating for improved pension benefits, an equitable disability system and representation for retired NFL players.  For more information, visit www.fourthandgoalunites.com.

Fourth & Goal Foundation

2419 E. Joppa Road

Parkville, MD 21234

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