PALA, CA – The Pala Band of Mission Indians will sponsor the 2024 NFL-Sanctioned Super Bowl Breakfast, taking place at Caesars Palace in Las Vegas on February 10, 2024. The significant partnership with Athletes in Action (AIA) aims to elevate the prestigious 36th Bart Starr Award, paying tribute to the legendary Jim Thorpe.
The NFL Super Bowl Breakfast has long been a symbol of sportsmanship and leadership as it spotlights the annual Bart Starr Awardee, an accolade that recognizes an NFL player for outstanding character and leadership both on and off the field. The award is named after the iconic Green Bay Packers quarterback Bart Starr – an individual of impeccable character who served his family and community faithfully and acted as a role model for athletes and business people alike.
This year’s event will pay homage to the great Jim Thorpe, one of the most versatile and accomplished athletes in history. Jim Thorpe, a member of the Sac and Fox Nation and a descendant of the Citizen Potawatomi Nation, was the first Native American to win a gold medal twice for the U.S. in the 1912 Summer Olympics. He was also the first President of the American Professional Football Association (APFA) in 1920 and then appointed President of the National Football League (NFL) in 1922. His legacy is a testament to the power of resilience, determination, and excellence.
The Pala Band’s collaboration with Athletes in Action represents more than just a sponsorship opportunity; it is a cultural celebration and an acknowledgment of the rich heritage and contributions of tribal nations to sports and society.
“The Pala Band of Mission Indians has always been known for its strong commitment to community partnerships and cultural heritage,” said Robert Smith, Chairman of the Pala Band of Mission Indians. “We are thrilled to play a part in contributing to this symbolic event that will celebrate Jim Thorpe’s remarkable legacy.”