| Americans have always possessed a fanatical fascination and adulation for those athletes talented and blessed enough to make it in the world of professional sports. And most of these "star" ballplayers revel in the limelight and relish playing the role of "celebrity." |
| In Charlie Ward's case, however, one finds an enigma of the sports world. The former Florida State University football star, Heisman Trophy winner, and now a professional basketball player in his third year with the New York Knicks is the opposite of everything that is associated today with what it means to be a celebrity. |
| In a world known more for loud "trash talk" and egotistical boasting, 27-year-old Charlie Ward stands out with his reserved, unassuming nature and lifestyle. He is a quiet man. A man at peace, maintaining a lifestyle that is based on high ethical standards, integrity and character. |
| The combination of these virtues and his firm belief in God have created in him a strong and focused disposition. There is nothing "in your face" about Charlie Ward. He is not a flashy star, and he doesn't seek the spotlight. But he does eagerly accept the responsibility of a role model. |
| Which makes him unique. And special. |
| Charlie Ward is the grandson of a minister and the son of educators Willard and Charlie Ward, Sr. Charlie grew up in Thomasville, Georgia, the third of seven children in a home filled with love and all of the morals, inspiration and motivation that have become a part of who he is. |
| Charlie began his athletic career playing football at FSU where his talents remained hidden on the bench for the first three years. In his senior year in 1993, however, he earned the role as the starting quarterback and showed the world what a gifted athlete he truly is. His final year was a whirlwind of broken records, a national championship and the Heisman Trophy (which he won by the largest voting margin in the history of the award). |
| Charlie was a two-sport man in college, displaying his awesome athletic ability on the basketball court as well. In 1992 Charlie, along with teammatesand now fellow NBA stars Sam Cassell, Doug Edwards and Bob Sura, led the 1992 FSU team to its first NCAA Elite Eight appearance. He culminated his collegiate career by garnering several national awards for football, as well as being named MVP at the NCAA Basketball Tournament in the NABC college All-Star game. |
| In addition to his athletic successes, Charlie excelled in the classroom as well, earning his Bachelor of Arts degree with honors in his major, therapeutic recreation. |
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