Who is Steve Gleason? Steve Gleason Honored With Arthur Ashe Courage Award

Who is Steve Gleason?

Stephen Michael Gleason, born in 1977, is a former American football player known for his time with the New Orleans Saints in the NFL. He started his career after college at Washington State University and played as a safety. Gleason's standout moment came in 2006 when he blocked a punt in a game shortly after Hurricane Katrina, symbolizing the city's resilience. After retiring from football in 2008, he faced a new challenge when diagnosed with ALS, a progressive neurodegenerative disease.

Despite this, Gleason became a prominent advocate for ALS awareness, sharing his journey in the documentary "Gleason." His efforts were recognized with the Congressional Gold Medal in 2019 and the Arthur Ashe Courage Award in 2024, highlighting his impactful advocacy and inspirational leadership in the face of adversity.

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Steve Gleason Honored with Arthur Ashe Courage Award

Steve Gleason, a former New Orleans Saints safety, received the 2024 Arthur Ashe Courage Award at the ESPYs for his remarkable resilience in battling ALS (Lou Gehrig's disease). Despite being diagnosed in 2011 and losing the ability to walk, speak, or breathe on his own, Gleason has become a beacon of courage and inspiration. Accompanied by his son Rivers and former teammate Drew Brees, Gleason reflected on the meaning of courage, emphasizing the universal nature of fear and adversity.

He spoke of embracing life despite challenges, urging others to find strength and peace of mind through adversity. Drew Brees, in presenting the award, highlighted Gleason's unwavering determination and his continuous efforts to inspire others through his journey. Gleason's advocacy and bravery in the face of ALS have touched many, making him a deserving recipient of this prestigious honor.

Steve Gleason's Early Life

Stephen Michael Gleason was born and raised in Spokane, Washington. He went to high school at Gonzaga Prep, where he stood out as a talented athlete. Gleason played football and earned recognition for his skills, winning consecutive defensive MVP awards as a linebacker in the Greater Spokane League (GSL). He was also versatile, playing on offense as a fullback, showing his ability to contribute on both sides of the game.

Gleason's early years in Spokane shaped his passion for football and set the stage for his later success. His achievements in high school laid a strong foundation for his career, highlighting his dedication and talent on the field even from a young age.

Steve Gleason Career

Stephen Michael Gleason began his college football career at Washington State University after graduating in 1995. He played as a starting linebacker and was part of the 1997 team that made it to the prestigious Rose Bowl. Gleason also excelled in baseball, where he played center field and set a school record for triples during his four years with the WSU baseball team.

In his professional career, Gleason signed with the Indianapolis Colts as an undrafted free agent in 2000 but later joined the New Orleans Saints' practice squad. He made history on September 25, 2006, by blocking a punt in a game against the Atlanta Falcons, marking the Saints' first touchdown in their return to New Orleans after Hurricane Katrina.

This moment became a symbol of hope and resilience for the city. Gleason's contributions were further honored with a Super Bowl ring in 2011 and a statue, "Rebirth," depicting his famous punt block, was erected outside the Superdome in 2012, cementing his legacy in Saints history.

Steve Gleason Age

Steve Gleason is currently 47 years old. He was born on March 19, 1977, in Spokane, Washington, USA.