Fayetteville NC – Prominent leaders in Cumberland County N.C. have formed a committee seeking to rename Westarea Elementary School, an established educational institution in Fayetteville, North Carolina, as part of a new initiative to honor NFL legend James A. Raye Jr. The proposed name change to James A. Raye Elementary aims to pay tribute to the remarkable achievements and contributions of this esteemed athlete, coach, and community leader.
James A. Raye Jr. is an American football coach and former player who has left an indelible mark on the world of football. From his humble beginnings at the segregated E.E. Smith High School in Fayetteville, North Carolina, to his illustrious college career as a quarterback for the Michigan State Spartans, Raye’s journey has been nothing short of extraordinary.
Raye’s college career included notable highlights, such as serving as the backup quarterback for the 1966 Spartans team that played in the Rose Bowl and starting in the legendary 10-10 tie game against Notre Dame, often referred to as “The Game of the Century.” As the South’s first black quarterback to win a national title, Raye played a pivotal role in breaking down racial barriers in college football.
Following his playing career, Raye transitioned to coaching, leaving an indelible mark on the NFL. With a coaching career spanning 36 years and 10 different teams, Raye excelled as an offensive coordinator and was widely regarded for his adaptability and leadership skills. His contributions to the San Francisco 49ers during the 2009 season, where he adeptly adjusted the offense despite key player injuries, earned him high praise from peers and experts.
The initiative to rename Westarea Elementary as James A. Raye Elementary aims to honor Raye’s exceptional legacy and inspire future generations. By bestowing his name upon the school, Cumberland County seeks to celebrate Raye’s achievements both on and off the field and to provide a lasting testament to his commitment to community service.
“We are thrilled to embark on this initiative to rename Westarea Elementary as James A. Raye Elementary,” said Roy McNeill, spokesperson for the initiative. “James A. Raye Jr. is not only a renowned NFL figure but also an exceptional role model, mentor, and community leader. We believe that by renaming the school in his honor, we will inspire students to strive for greatness and to make a positive impact in their communities.”
The initiative is currently seeking support from the Board of Education and influencers in Cumberland County. Furthermore, individuals are encouraged to sign the petition in favor of the name change, showing their solidarity with this significant undertaking.
For more information about the initiative and to support the petition, please visit https://chng.it/nZ8Nj5zXK6
About James A. Raye Jr:
James A. Raye Jr. is a celebrated American football coach, former player, and senior adviser to NFL vice-president Troy Vincent. With a remarkable college career as a quarterback for the Michigan State Spartans and a coaching career spanning 36 years in the NFL, Raye has left an indelible mark on the world of football. He is also known for his dedication to community service and mentorship.
