Robert Krafts Named 2012 Georga Halas Award Winner

Patriots CEO and chairman Robert Kraft was awarded the 2012 George Halas Award. The prestigious award is given annually to an NFL coach, player or staffer who has overcome adversity and achieved success professionally or personally. Kraft’s beloved wife Myra, lost her battle with cancer last year, according to the Bostom.com website. While mourning the loss of his long-time spouse, Kraft played an integral role during the players’ collective bargaining negotiations. Reaching an agreement on contract terms allowed the 2012 NFL season to proceed as planned with a full schedule.

Kraft is the forty-third recipient of the George Halas Award. The CEO is the first football team owner and member of the Patriots organization to be receive the award. Each year members of the Professional Football Writers of America gather to vote on the new honoree. George Halas was a player, owner, manager and promoter for the Chicago Bears. Halas is also a member of the Pro Football Hall of Fame. The Halas award began in 1970 with super-star Joe Namath garnering the first plaque.

The Boston Herald reports that Kraft is known equally well for his dedication to the NFL and philanthropic effort. The Patriots chairman recently hosted the Myra Kraft Community MVP Awards Banquet at Gillette Stadium after spending the day at the team’s minicamp. The annual event recognized community volunteers and treats the honorees to photos with football greats. The New England Patriots dedicated the 2011 season to the memory of Myra Kfraft and went on to win the AFC Championship game and made their sixth appearance in the Super Bowl sign Kraft took the helm.