Heisman trophy touches down in Fredericksburg area

By CHRIS MARKHAM

The Heisman trophy, which is annually awarded by the NCAA to the most outstanding Division I college football player, struck its legendary pose in Fredericksburg over the weekend in an appearance at the Pohanka Nissan off Route 1.

People who came to see the trophy had the opportunity from Saturday, Sept. 27 through Monday Sept. 29 to have their picture taken with it and register to win a mini-football helmet signed by 1953 Heisman trophy winner Johnny Lattner.

The event was an effort by Nissan to promote its Heisman House campaign. Now in its fourth year, the campaign is designed to build support for the Heisman Trophy Trust’s charitable work.

Fredericksburg was the first spot of many to be a part of this campaign. The trophy will continue to travel to other dealerships, and other former Heisman trophy winners will assist with the promotion of the campaign.

Members of the University of Mary Washington athletic department made the short trip down Route 1 to take a look at the historic trophy, take a few pictures and connect with the local business.

Pohanka Nissan is a frequent supporter of UMW athletics, sponsoring a number of events and even offering the chance to win a free car at halftime of basketball games.