
The Florida State University Heisman Coalition is a collaborative effort comprised of students, University administrators, alumni, and community members to promote Peter Warrick for the Heisman Trophy.
At most Universities, the Athletic Department handles promotions involving athletes. However, the policy of Florida State University is such that the University will not promote an individual player above the team.
In 1993, a group of students took it upon themselves to fill this void by forming the Charlie Ward for Heisman Coalition. Using t-shirt sales to raise money, the Coalition successfully campaigned on Charlie's behalf.
In order to guarantee that students would continue organizing projects for the University, this group of dynamic student leaders founded Burning Spear, a student organization devoted to the betterment of Florida State.
In 1996, Burning Spear organized a Heisman campaign for Warrick Dunn. Although Warrick Dunn did not win the Heisman Trophy that year, Burning Spear made a valiant attempt campaigning on his behalf.
In the spring of 1999, Burning Spear began planning for Peter Warrick's Heisman campaign. The Florida State University Heisman Coalition is the fruit of that planning. The Heisman Coalition is an endeavor to raise support for a Florida State Heisman Candidate on a much larger scale than has ever before been done.
The Coalition will generate funds through t-shirt sales similar to the previous campaigns. Local businesses, community members, student organizations, and alumni are encouraged to illustrate their support by purchasing the t-shirts and wearing them on game days.
This year, the Heisman Coalition is endeavoring to develop a "grass roots" campaign for Peter Warrick within the Tallahassee community. A Heisman candidate is evaluated as much upon performance off the field as on the field. Therefore, the Coalition is soliciting public support to demonstrate that this "All-America City" supports its "All-American Athlete".
A variety of activities have been planned to promote Peter within the community and to the nation. The Coalition will be hosting a "Heisman Headquarters" beginning three hours prior to every home game. The "Heisman Headquarters" will be the game day location for food, entertainment, t-shirt sales, and general information. Game Day Press Gimmicks can be expected during every game as well.
Several annual Seminole traditions such as Drum Tour, Spirit Vigil, and the Clock and Seal Homecoming Banquet will also be a part of the Heisman campaign. Working in partnership with the Office of the Mayor, the Heisman Coalition may be participating in such community events as Pops in the Garden. The Heisman Coalition will be participating in Downtown Get Down, a community pep rally prior to each home game which benefits the United Way. Peter himself has taken on the cause of the United Way by actively participating in this year's campaign video for the area's United Way.
Florida State fans not living in Tallahassee will be included in the Heisman Coalition's activities as well. The Coalition will be present at every away game with information and t-shirts. Likewise, the annual Drum Tour will be visiting Seminole Clubs prior to the Noles' victory at Gainesville. Additionally, Seminole Clubs around the world will be given the opportunity to order t-shirts for their members.
Up to date information on Heisman Coalition activities and Peter Warrick can be attained by visiting the official Heisman Coalition website at www.burningspear.org/heisman. The website is the centralized location for all communication and correspondence.
For more information, the Heisman Coalition can be contacted via phone at 847-2812, email at heismancoalition@hotmail.com, or mail at PO Box 20456, Tallahassee, FL 32316.
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Official Newsletter for the Peter Warrick Heisman Coalition
September 30, 1999