47°
Rice, a running back for the Baltimore Ravens, helped the team to its second championship in franchise history at Super Bowl XLVII one month ago. Still, with all of his success, Rice had not forgotten from where he came.
“As I look into the crowd, I see many different people, including those from 345 Main St. where I grew up,” Rice said. “I can’t forget my own football battles that happened across the street and my travels along North Avenue.”
Mayor Noam Bramson said the celebration gave many residents of New Rochelle the chance to demonstrate their admiration for Rice’s accomplishments.
"This community rally is an opportunity for all of us to offer our congratulations to our hometown hero,” Bramson said.
Board of Education President Chrisanne Petrone acknowledged Rice for all he has done for the community and the school district.
“Ray has achieved one of the highest honors in his craft,” Petrone said. “He continues to be involved in our community which he is committed too. He’s been a role model for many kids in New Rochelle and beyond."
Rice said part of the day is for the younger generation, who has the opportunity to rise to prominence in something other than sports.
“I’m just a sports figure who made it,” Rice said. “If you look at the names that came out of New Rochelle you’ll see there are a lot of great people.”
Click here to follow Daily Voice New Rochelle and receive free news updates.
