ABOVE VIDEO:Mike Riazzi has led the Melbourne Central Catholic athletic department for almost a quarter century.
BREVARD COUNTY, FLORIDA — Melbourne Central Catholic High School (MCC) recently received a $7,000 grant from the National Football League Foundation to fund enhancements to equipment and additional training aimed at preventing concussions among its football players.
Mike Riazzi
“Player safety is a top priority, “ said Mike Riazzi, athletic director and head football coach at the school.
“We are thrilled to have this funding which will allow us to ensure the safety of our players. We will use the money to recondition and purchase helmets for the upcoming season.”
The grant was championed by Mike and Pam Whittington. Mike is a former New York Giants player and is currently a coach for the MCC Hustlers football team. To be eligible for the grant, a school/organization must have a current/former NFL player on its coaching roster. The Whittingtons submitted the grant on behalf of the MCC program.
Mike Whittington
“We are honored to have Mr. Whittington on our coaching staff,” added Riazzi. “The knowledge, skill and insight that he brings to our players is truly exceptional. We are so grateful for his sponsorship of this grant— we could not have done it without him.”
Riazzi and his coaching staff continue to focus on all aspect of player safety but have greatly expanded concussion prevention training and additional measures.
Dr. Dominguez
This year, the team physician, Dr. David Dominguez and MCC athletic trainer Sandor Melian will evaluate each player through baseline reading.
This will be helpful in evaluating the player if a concussion is suspected.
The National Football League Foundation is a non-profit organization dedicated to improving the lives of those involved in the game of football – from players at all levels to communities across the country.
The NFL Foundation represents the 32 NFL clubs and supports the health and safety of athletes, youth football, and the communities which support our game.
Melbourne Central Catholic, established in 1962, is a college preparatory high school currently serving 500 students in grades 9-12.
