Philadelphia has recently been a hub for National Football League (NFL) activities. The class action concussion lawsuits against the league were consolidated in Philadelphia. Earlier this month, arguments were heard before a Philadelphia judge regarding the concussion lawsuits and the NFL's failure to properly warn football players about the dangerous risks associated with repeated head trauma.
Hundreds of retired NFL players and their families are claiming the league is negligent for improperly informing them of the links between repeated head trauma and long term brain injuries. These players who suffered from concussions during their career are now suffering from permanent brain damage.
The families of Ray Easterling and Junior Seau are bringing wrongful death claims against the league. Both of these former athletes tragically committed suicide last year in two separate incidences. An autopsy revealed they suffered from a degenerative brain disease brought on by repeated head trauma.
The NFL is no doubt hoping to gain a more favorable image in the Philadelphia area with the upcoming “NFL All Sports Weekend” in the suburb of Fairless Hills.
After the Pennsbury School District was forced to close the playground due to inefficient equipment the Parent Teacher Organization (PTO) joined up with “Dreams for Kids” a charity run by former NFL Star Lonnie Allgood of the Buffalo Bills to help bring a new playground to the third through fifth graders in Manor Elementary.
From April 26th thru 28th, Pennsbury High School will host “NFL All Sports Weekend” to help raise money for the playground. Former Sports Greats such as Darren Daulton (Phillies) and Dave Schultz (Flyers) will be signing autographs for a small fee. Attendees will have a chance to purchase sports memorabilia or bid on some treasures in a silent auction. On Sunday the 28th, former NFL players will play against the winning group from an adult tournament on Saturday.
Will the good will associated with the NFL in a Pennsylvania suburb be enough for the league to keep a positive image in the Philadelphia area? Or will it make the public more empathetic towards retired sports stars?
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