(CNN) — Prince Harry left the players speechless when he unexpectedly arrived at the NFL Honors ceremony that took place this Thursday in Las Vegas.
To the surprise of many, the Duke of Sussex took the stage to announce the winner of the NFL Man of the Year award.
Before announcing the award winner, Harry took his time to joke about the differences between American and British sports.
“I love how they stole rugby from us and made it their own,” he said with a smile. “Instead of passing it backwards, they pass it forwards. Why not wear pads and a helmet? Of course, having an offense and a defense, that makes sense. And why not take a breather every 15 seconds?” he exclaimed.
“And you know what? Instead of a 10-month season, let’s make it 18 weeks. Great!”
Furthermore, he wanted to emphasize the importance of the award he was giving. “Joking aside, what you do on and off the field is truly extraordinary. You are a role model for millions of people because of the way you behave and give back what you receive.”
“This last, most important award is about service to the community, and there is a special man we would like to pay tribute to now.”
The Man of the Year Award winner went to Pittsburgh Steelers defenseman Cameron Heyward, and the 34-year-old couldn’t believe who he was sharing the stage with.
“Oh, gosh,” Heyward said onstage. “Prince Harry himself. I’m shocked. He’s Prince Harry.”
Keegan-Michael Key, Heyward and Prince Harry pose for a photo after the Pittsburgh Steelers manager won Man of the Year. (Photo: Todd Rosenberg/Getty Images).
The Man of the Year award is given to the NFL player who excels on the field and also demonstrates a passion for creating a lasting positive impact in the community, beyond the game. The award was established in 1970.
“I’m still doing the work, as I will continue to do. This award is fantastic and I appreciate it, but I understand I have more work to do,” Heyward said. “I have to make sure I represent this man every day going forward.”
“And that is why I ask you, my brothers, to continue doing the work, to continue being the positive role models that you are. I know it is not always pretty, I know that many people like to talk about other things, but you are the change , they are making a difference and I am grateful for that.” Each of the 32 nominees receive a donation of US$40,000 to the charity of his choice, and Heyward receives a donation of US$250,000 as the winner of the Man of the Year award.
“Cameron Heyward’s character and contributions to his community are recognized by his teammates, the community and the NFL family at large,” NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell said in a press release Thursday. the night.
“As a Pittsburgh native and Steeler, he has made a unique contribution to his hometown through his dedication to literacy, mentoring and social justice. His leadership through initiatives such as The Heyward House Foundation, Suiting Up for Success and “Voices of Hope scholarship have provided those in need with crucial support in a time of need. We are very proud to name Cameron Heyward as our 2023 NFL Walter Payton Man of the Year.”
Harry’s appearance in Las Vegas was very striking given that just a day before had been photographed returning to the UK to see his father, according to media reports, after Monday’s shocking announcement from Buckingham Palace that King Charles III has cancer.
2024-02-10 12:01:00
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