November 6, 2015

Key to the City Recipient

Elk Grove Mayor Gary Davis presented former Chicago Bears linebacker and Elk Grove High School alumni, Lance Briggs, with a Key to the City at two special events. The first event was held at his restaurant, Double Nickle for a meet and greet with Mr. Briggs and then a special ESPN nationally televised Kings game that recognize Briggs for his success, his contributions to the region's student athletics, and local philanthropy.

Born on November 12, 1980, Lance Briggs is an Elk Grove native. As a hardworking student athlete, he was a three-year letterman in football and a two-year letterman in track at Elk Grove High School. The Sacramento Bee , named him Player-of-the-Year for his senior stats in both football and track (200 meters, 4×100 relay and shot put). He continued his football career at the University of Arizona, where he majored in sociology. Briggs was a two-time, first team All Pac-10 Conference choice and the 68th overall pick in the 2003 NFL draft.

Briggs retired from the NFL in 2015 year after thirteen seasons with the Chicago Bears. In 2011, he became the ninth player in franchise history to be voted to seven Pro Bowls. Briggs tied records for the most interceptions returned for touchdowns of any linebacker in the NFL.

Off the field, Briggs has long embraced the local community. He is well known for his philanthropic efforts to help at-risk youth through his foundation, Briggs4Kidz. For several years, Briggs has hosted a series of non-contact football camps throughout Illinois, Arizona and Northern California -- teaching kids ages 9-17 football fundamentals, the importance of hard work and teamwork.

"On and off the field, Lance has shown a remarkable strength in character and an unparalleled commitment to service and professionalism," said Mayor Gary Davis. "The NFL called him east to pursue his success, but he returned home again and again to invest in Elk Grove through his youth sports camps and its business community. As this key demonstrates, the door is always open to Lance at City Hall."