James White, New England Patriots running back and hero of Super Bowl LI, today visited Boston Medical Center (BMC) and was announced as host of the 8th Annual Mayo Bowl.
White was named as the host of the Mayo Bowl, a celebrity bowling tournament and charity initiative started by former Patriots co-captain and linebacker Jerod Mayo. The event is sponsored by Citizens Bank and Bob’s Discount Furniture. Following the announcement, White met with patients and their families in the pediatric unit, distributed gift bags and signed photos for all the kids. White was joined by Kate Walsh, president and CEO of Boston Medical Center, and Rick Musiol, SVP, public affairs, Citizens Bank.
This is White’s first time hosting the event, which will be held at Kings in Dedham on September 25, 2017. The Mayo Bowl continues to grow each year, selling out all twenty bowling lanes in the facility, bringing in over 400 attendees, and reaching over 4.2 million individuals through social media. All of the proceeds from the Mayo Bowl will benefit BMC. The Mayo Bowl has raised over $1.6 million for BMC to date.
“Touring Boston Medical Center’s pediatric unit today was deeply meaningful, and underscores why I’ve chosen to serve as this year’s host for the Mayo Bowl,” said White. “For that reason, I look forward to be partnering with BMC, Citizens Bank and Bob’s Discount Furniture on this exciting community event, which gives so much back to families in Greater Boston and beyond.”
Citizens Bank has been a leading sponsor of the Mayo Bowl since 2015. “We are thrilled to be part of the Mayo Bowl in support of this great cause,” said Jerry Sargent, president of Citizens Bank, Massachusetts. “The Mayo Bowl is such a fun and important event that helps Boston Medical Center provide unparalleled care to its patients and the Greater Boston community.”
The Mayo Bowl is the largest professional athlete attended event in the New England area. Many current and former New England Patriots stars have attended including Tom Brady, Rob Gronkowski, Julian Edelman, Vince Wilfork and Tedy Bruschi, among others.
"The funds generated from the Mayo Bowl have had a tremendous impact on BMC and the care of our patients," said Kate Walsh, President and CEO of Boston Medical Center. "The level of excitement the event brings and the commitment by so many Patriot players is truly remarkable."
Drafted by the New England Patriots back in 2014, White rose to prominence during the 2016 NFL season. His impressive performances throughout the season culminated in Super Bowl LI, where he scored the winning touchdown in overtime, delivering the Patriots their 5thfranchise championship. White now holds the record for the most catches in a Super Bowl.
