KID REPORT
September 9, 2002
The Bravest Team
TFK Reporter Martin Jacobs talks to members of a courageous "team" of firefighters
 Firefighters hold books filled with thanks from TFK readers. |
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The New York City Fire Department's football team, called the "NY Bravest," lost 22 players on Sept 11 at the World Trade Center. Because the football team was hit so hard, the NFL decided to make a documentary about what happened to the Fire Department's team. The name of the film is The Bravest Team. The film’s premiere took place in New York City, and was attended by top National Football League officials, as well as hundreds of firefighters.
Hitting the Field
After September 11, one of the biggest questions for the team was whether it should continue playing or not. They decided to keep playing. "Our team was deeply affected," said firefighter and player Troy Roberts. "But it was important to go on with our way of life, and prove we can’t be beaten."
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Lieutenant Mike Meyers of Ladder Company 11 added, "Playing the season helped a lot in the healing process. The film helped us memorialize a lot of guys who died and helped us keep their memories alive."
A Proud History
The team was started in 1973 by Pudgie Walsh on a bet that the Fire Department could beat the Police Department at football. "The film gives a very strong feeling of what the Fire Department and its football team is all about," said Walsh. "Fighting fires and playing a football game has many similarities. You’re always in a rush. You’re racing against the clock. You gotta make the play or you gotta make the rescue."
Heroes On and Off the Field
Touched by their story and determination, the NFL created the documentary. NFL Commissioner Paul Tagliabue said, "I hope they will feel even prouder about who they are, what they represent and what they mean to the millions of people who live here in New York City."
While this film wasn’t made for kids, it covers themes that anyone can relate to. "The film is about persevering, and sticking to what you believe in, and playing the game in spite of hardship. So it’s a good lesson for kids to hear," said Tagliabue. "We can all learn that no matter how hard you’re punched in the nose, you’ve got to come back and keep working and make your life important."
