After missing most of last year due to injury, New England Patriots starting left tackle Nate Solder currently is in the middle of a highly successful 2016 season. He has reestablished himself as a very good blindside protector for quarterback Tom Brady and has been a key member of a 14-2 team that is one game away from the Super Bowl.
And while Solder’s solid on-field performance gets most of the headlines, his off-field work has to be pointed out as well. The Patriots have done so today by officially announcing the 28-year old as their 2016 Ed Block Courage Award recipient.
Each of the 32 NFL franchises names one player, voted by his teammates, to receive the honor for his off-field work and contributions to the community. In Solder’s case this is supporting charitable causes or organizations like the Joe Andruzzi Foundation or the Hockomock area YMCA. Furthermore, he spreads awareness and shares experiences stemming from both his testicular cancer diagnosis and the tumor diagnosis of his son Hudson, trying to help others who are forced to face similar situations.
Solder will receive the award, which is handed out yearly since 1978, on March 9th.
Congratulations!