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26-Sep-06
Wheaties Honors Quarterback Great Doug Flutie

Doug Flutie, football great and perennial fan-favorite, was honored today by Wheaties®, “The Breakfast of Champions®.”  The new special-edition package, unveiled today at Boston College Alumni Stadium where the “Flutie Magic” began, continues Wheaties’ tradition of honoring legendary athletes and celebrates Flutie’s brilliant football career, adding yet another honor to his impressive list of personal and professional accomplishments.

Flutie first captured the nation’s imagination during a nationally televised 1984 game against the University of Miami.  Down by four points with six seconds left on the game clock, Flutie completed an 80-yard Hail Mary pass caught by Gerard Phelan in the end zone, giving Boston College the win. 

Over his four-year college career, Flutie completed 11,318 total yards of offense, surpassing Jim McMahon’s record to become the all-time leader.  He ranks in the top three in nearly every statistically important passing category in Boston College history and remains the all-time leader in career yards, yards in one season, touchdowns in one season, yards in one game and touchdowns in one game.  Winning the prestigious Heisman trophy in 1984, the All-American set his sights on professional football, adding to his legacy of winning moments. 

With his career spanning an amazing 21 seasons and three different leagues, his list of achievements are unmatched and inspirational to countless fans and players.  Over his professional football career, he has thrown for over 57,874 yards – one of only six players ever to do so. 

One of the most respected players in the game, his work ethic and ability to overcome also have lead to tremendous efforts off the field.  In addition to his commitment to countless causes, Flutie’s influence continues to grow through the efforts of the Doug Flutie, Jr. Foundation for Autism.  The foundation honors Doug’s son, Dougie, Jr., and has raised over $8 million for autism-related research.

“It’s a tremendous privilege for me to join the list of legendary quarterbacks who have appeared on the Wheaties box through the years,” Flutie said.  “I’m very honored to be on the cover of the ‘Breakfast of Champions’ package and to share the ultimate achievement with my family.”

“Doug Flutie is a true legend for his amazing achievements and impressive contributions both on and off the field,” said Wheaties Marketing Manager Eric Treschuk.  “It’s only fitting that he join the Wheaties family where it all began – on the field at Boston College – continuing our rich tradition of honoring great athletes.” 

The new 18-ounce Wheaties package is now available nationally.  Flutie joins a select group of pro quarterbacks who have appeared on the Wheaties package, including many of the greatest Hall of Fame passers of all time.  Among the other Wheaties honorees are Johnny Unitas, Otto Graham, Bart Starr, Joe Namath, Roger Staubach, Joe Montana, Troy Aikman, John Elway, Jim Kelly, Steve Young, Dan Marino, Drew Bledsoe, Brett Favre, Michael Vick and Peyton Manning. 

This isn’t the first time Flutie’s had a connection with Wheaties.  In addition to serving as key ambassador for the Wheaties “Fit To Win” Challenge, a no-nonsense fitness program to help people get back on track through proper nutrition and physical fitness, his infamous pass was inspiration for a recent Wheaties commercial.  For more details on the “Fit To Win” Challenge, visit www.wheaties.com.

*Wheaties package image now available at www.businesswire.com.

About Wheaties, “The Breakfast of Champions”

Launched in 1924, Wheaties is the No. 1 whole-grain wheat flaked breakfast cereal in the country.  The brand began its association with sports in the mid-1930s with a sign on the left field wall at Nicollet Park near downtown Minneapolis.  General Mills’ broadcast deal with the minor league Minneapolis Millers on WCCO Radio included the large signboard that Wheaties would use to introduce its new ad slogan:  “Wheaties—The Breakfast of Champions.”  From that rather humble beginning, Wheaties has built a heritage that includes many of the greatest athletes of all time.  Learn more at www.wheaties.com.

 

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