One of Florida State University's most celebrated athletic heroes was meeting with fans at the Leon County Main Library on Saturday. Charlie Ward, the quarterback who led the school's football team to its first National Championship in 1993, also brought the Heisman Trophy he won that same year.
Ward, who went on to a successful pro-basketball career after FSU, said he was honored to be part of the library's Black History Month observance.
"I'm grateful for the experience and for them to be willing to let us bring the Heisman Trophy here for the public."
Today, Ward is the boys' basketball coach at Florida High. But he's also planning a nearly $27 million "Champions Ranch" to give underserved kids and their families positive, life-changing experiences. That had Leon County Commissioner Carolyn Cummings excited.
"We're looking forward to his ranch out past Southwood that they're working on now. And he's just a public servant. We love the fact he loves the children!"
Meanwhile, Ward's Heisman Trophy will occupy a prominent place on the library's main floor through the end of August.
