Football legend lauded

Former coaches and players pay tribute to Broyles

Football legend J. Frank Broyles, or "Coach" as everyone knows him, and his 55 years of service to Arkansas were celebrated with two benefits for the Frank and Barbara Broyles Foundation CareGivers United on June 6 and 7.

The nonprofit organization offers resources to the families of patients diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease and conducts training sessions for caregivers and medical providers. The "Coach Broyles Playbook for Alzheimer's Caregivers" is available through the nonprofit organization.

A Celebration of Coach Broyles’ Life and Career

Golf scramble

Who: Frank and Barbara Broyles Foundation CareGivers United

What: Inaugural benefit golf tournament

When: June 6

Where: Paradise Valley Golf and Athletic Club in Fayetteville

Coach’s Quarter

What: Tribute dinner featuring former Razorback coaches and players

When: June 7

Where: John Q. Hammons Center in Rogers

Information: (479) 409-4498, betsy@alzheimerspla… or caregiversunited.com

Jerry Jones, owner of the Dallas Cowboys and former Razorback football player, was the luncheon speaker at the June 6 golf scramble at Paradise Valley Golf and Athletic Club in Fayetteville and set the tone for the events. He spoke with genuine fondness and respect for the former Razorback football coach and athletic director, calling him a "tremendous influence" on his life, then surprised everyone by announcing a $100,000 gift from his family to CareGivers United.

"We're all here because we get a chance to be around a special person," Jones, who was accompanied by wife Gene, told us. "Had I not gotten to come across his path, I would not be where I am with the Dallas Cowboys."

The benefit dinner June 7 at the John Q. Hammons Center in Rogers saw more than 800 guests gathered to hail the Hog hero.

A full slate of speakers, some in person, some via video, included those who have known Broyles as their coach, boss, coworker and friend.

Common themes emerged to describe Coach Broyles as they all paid tribute -- he was billed as a supportive boss, having high expectations for everyone, and possessng character, enthusiasm and vision.

Players, coaches and community leaders speaking in tribute to Coach Broyles at the banquet included Johnny Majors, Russ Sloan, Rep. Steve Womack, Bill Montgomery, Muskie Harris, Scott Bull and Houston Nutt.

Those who sent video messages included Keith Jackson, Lou Holtz, Ken Hatfield, Jim Lindsey and Arkansas Gov. Mike Beebe.

The evening closed with -- of course -- Coach Broyles leading us all in calling the Hogs.

Columnist Carin Schoppmeyer can be reached by email at cschoppmeyer@nwaonline.com.

NAN Profiles on 06/15/2014

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