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DOUG FLUTIE
FOUNDER, DOUG FLUTIE, JR. FOUNDATION FOR AUTISM
Doug Flutie first captured the nation’s imagination during his senior season at Boston College in a 1984 game against the University of Miami. With Miami completing a dramatic drive to take the lead in the closing minute of the game, Boston College had possession at their 20-yard line with 28 seconds to go. After two quick plays, six seconds remained on the clock. In the last play of the game, Flutie threw a desperation Hail Mary pass caught by Gerard Phelan in the end zone, giving Boston College the win. Over his four-year college career, Flutie totaled 11,318 offensive yards and became the NCAA’s all-time leader, surpassing BYU’s Jim McMahon. In his senior year, Doug threw for a Boston College record of 3,454 yards and 27 touchdowns, including “The Pass.” His performance that season earned him the coveted Heisman Trophy. He remains the all-time BC leader in career yards, yards in one season, touchdowns in one season, yards in one game and touchdowns in one game – and ranks in the top three in virtually every statistically important passing category in BC history.
Flutie began his professional football career in the United States Football League with the New Jersey Generals in 1985. After the USFL folded, Flutie signed with the NFL’s Chicago Bears in 1986, starting one game. In 1987, he signed a three-year contract with the New England Patriots and had his best season there in 1988 when he threw for 1,150 yards in nine starts.
In 2000, he was named the Bills’ backup quarterback and appeared in only 11 games. In 2001, Flutie moved west and signed with the San Diego Chargers, who were coming off a disheartening 1-15 season. After winning their first three games, the Chargers slumped and finished the season 5-11, but Flutie threw for an NFL career high 3,464 yards. Doug was relegated to backup quarterback in 2002, attempting only 11 passes. In 2003, he replaced a struggling Drew Brees and became the fifth oldest quarterback to start an NFL game. Doug was released from the team in 2005 and signed a one-year contract to return to the New England Patriots. The Massachusetts native said, “I’m very excited about being back in New England, being home and being a part of a great football team.”
Doug is a true champion both on and off the field. In 1998, he and his wife, Laurie, established the Doug Flutie, Jr. Foundation for Autism in honor of their son, Doug, Jr., who was diagnosed with autism at the age of three. The primary objective of the foundation is to provide assistance to families in need of autism resources and support. Since 1998, the Fluties have helped raise over 5 million dollars for this cause through corporate and individual donations, fundraisers, endorsement promotions and through sales of “Flutie Flakes” and other related items. Doug’s versatility as a player and as a spokesperson has led him to become a favorite choice for endorsements, speaking engagements, appearances, commercials, advertisements and television programs. For over 20 years, his name has been synonymous with determination and excellence in college and professional football. His work ethic and ability to overcome every obstacle thrown in his way is unmatched making him one of the most respected players in the game.
