Throughout his 13-year NFL career, Bills Legend Ruben Brown received numerous accolades for his contributions on and off the field. On Saturday, April 6, the longtime offensive lineman added another special achievement to his impressive resume, and this one hits home. Named to the Virginia Sports Hall of Fame's Class of 2019, Brown, alongside seven others, solidified a place in the state's history books forever.
"Virginia is my home," said Brown to 'One Bills Live' just days before the induction. "It's where I grew up and did my initial ball playing and to be recognized by your home state…that means a lot. So, I'm back here. I'm going to see some old friends and family, I'm going to eat a lot of seafood – some fried fish, some crab and just enjoy it and soak it up. You know, that's what we do at this stage in our lives."
Growing up in Lynchburg Va., Brown attended E.C. Glass High School where he excelled in football and wrestling. The place that gave him his roots, strengthened his passion for football and prepared him for a successful collegiate career at Pitt and celebrated NFL career with the Bills and Bears, Brown credited the school and its staff for helping him reach his goals.
"My high school experience was the greatest of all time," said Brown. "I went to the best high school on the planet Earth. I had the best mentors, teachers, principals [and] coaching staff. There was an environment where everyone was trying to do better and achieve more…my high school it's in all areas…Our whole entire school expected a lot that's why I went to the school and I totally enjoyed the time there. It's a testament to the people that were working there, the time that I had. Those people made it for me – those teachers and coaches and stuff made that time special for me."
In honor of their careers, the inductees were treated to an unforgettable weekend in Virginia Beach, featuring a VIP reception on Friday evening and a breakfast on Saturday morning. The celebration was capped by an induction ceremony, which was held at Zeider's American Dream Theater.
While the experience was one Brown will remember forever, what was most special for the eight-time NFL Pro Bowler, is that the induction is something he and his brother Cornell share.
"…The cool thing about this is, I had an experience watching my brother go in [the Virginia Sports Hall of Fame]," said Brown. "So, I came down through his whole process when he was inducted. So, for me, it's like just coming back and hanging out with friends."
