[Congressional Record Volume 158, Number 65 (Wednesday, May 9, 2012)]
[Senate]
[Page S3036]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                      TRIBUTE TO COACH FITZGERALD

  Mr. DURBIN. I rise today to recognize Northwestern University head 
football coach Patrick Fitzgerald for his leadership and service to the 
community. Patrick ``Coach Fitz'' Fitzgerald, a lifelong Illinoisan, 
has enjoyed a long and distinguished relationship with Northwestern 
University.
  He completed his undergraduate studies and played football at 
Northwestern, where he racked up several worthy achievements. A two-
time first-team All-American, he won the Nagurski and Bednarik Awards 
twice, was named Big Ten Defensive Player of the Year and Linebacker of 
the Year, and received the George Ballentine, Jr., Memorial Leadership 
Award.
  As Northwestern University's head football coach, Pat Fitzgerald has 
amassed an impressive record, leading the Wildcats to four consecutive 
postseason games and 5 consecutive years of eligibility for postseason 
games. And his leadership isn't confined to the football field. His 
commitment to academic achievement among Northwestern's football 
scholar-athletes has led to many being named Academic All-Big Ten 
students and the school's ranking among the Nation's leaders in annual 
graduation rates.
  Coach Fitzgerald has been recognized for his work ethic, integrity, 
and positive attitude. He was designated one of college football's top 
recruiters and serves on the Ethics Committee of the American Football 
Coaches Association and USA Football's Tackle Advisory Committee.
  Pat and his wife Stacy are active at Northwestern University and in 
the Chicago community, participating in many charitable activities, toy 
collection drives, and school health and wellness programs.
  I congratulate Coach Pat Fitzgerald on the many successes of the 
Wildcats' football program and thank him for his service to one of our 
finest schools and the broader Chicago community.

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