Honoring a Hero: The Unveiling of Pat Tillman’s Bronze Statue at Sun Devil Stadium
In a poignant ceremony held on August 30, 2017, Arizona State University (ASU) unveiled a life-sized bronze statue of Pat Tillman at Sun Devil Stadium. This tribute commemorates the legacy of a man who exemplified excellence both on the football field and in his service to the nation.(news.asu.edu, AP News)
The Life and Legacy of Pat Tillman
Pat Tillman was a standout linebacker for the ASU Sun Devils from 1994 to 1997. His exceptional performance on the field led him to be drafted by the Arizona Cardinals in the 1998 NFL Draft. However, following the tragic events of September 11, 2001, Tillman made the extraordinary decision to leave his professional football career behind. He enlisted in the U.S. Army and served as an Army Ranger. Tragically, Tillman was killed in Afghanistan in 2004.(NCAA.com, news.asu.edu, education.asu.edu)
The Bronze Statue: A Symbol of Honor
The bronze statue stands 7½ feet tall and depicts Tillman in his ASU football uniform, poised as if ready to sprint onto the field. It is strategically placed at the entrance of the Tillman Tunnel at Sun Devil Stadium, a location that holds significant meaning for ASU athletes. The statue was crafted by artist Jeff Carol Davenport, who was commissioned for the project due to her previous work on a statue of Zebulon Pearce in downtown Mesa .(news.asu.edu, education.asu.edu, news.asu.edu)
The Unveiling Ceremony
The unveiling ceremony was attended by several hundred people, including Tillman’s family, former and current ASU players, and university officials. Kevin Tillman, Pat’s brother, spoke at the event, emphasizing that Pat’s focus was always on personal growth and service rather than fame or fortune . The ceremony highlighted Tillman’s commitment to excellence and his enduring impact on the ASU community.(Fox News, AP News)
Tradition and Inspiration
In honor of Tillman’s legacy, ASU football players have adopted a tradition of touching the statue as they enter the field. This act serves as a reminder of Tillman’s values and his dedication to both his team and his country. Head coach Todd Graham emphasized that the statue embodies the spirit of ASU football, inspiring players to strive for greatness both on and off the field .(Fox News)
Continuing the Legacy: Pat’s Run
Beyond the statue, Tillman’s legacy is celebrated annually through Pat’s Run, a 4.2-mile run/walk held at ASU. The event, which began in 2005, has grown significantly over the years. In 2024, nearly 30,000 participants joined to honor Tillman’s memory and support the Tillman Scholars program, which provides scholarships to veterans, active-duty service members, and military spouses .(news.asu.edu, sundevils.com)
A Lasting Tribute
The bronze statue of Pat Tillman at Sun Devil Stadium stands as a testament to his extraordinary life and legacy. It serves not only as a reminder of his achievements in football but also as an enduring symbol of selflessness, courage, and commitment to service. Through this tribute, ASU ensures that Pat Tillman’s story continues to inspire future generations.(AP News, education.asu.edu)
For more information on Pat’s Run and the Tillman Scholars program, visit the official ASU Athletics website.(sundevils.com)
