Baltimore Ravens.com

Press Release

January 14, 2000

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE 

Visa Hall of Fans 

MATT ANDREWS CHOSEN AS THE BALTIMORE RAVENS ULTIMATE FAN FOR VISA HALL OF FANS AT THE PRO FOOTBALL HALL OF FAME 

Andrews Among Newest Visa Hall of Fans Honorees Recognized at Ceremony in the Canton, Ohio Football Shrine

CANTON, OHIO (January 4, 2000) - While Matt Andrews has never sweated through training camp, sacked a quarterback, or ran for a touchdown, his team dedication is being honored at the Professional Football Hall of Fame. 

Andrews and 30 other die-hard NFL fans who have dedicated their lives to their favorite team, are being celebrated at the Visa Hall of Fans exhibit in football's greatest shrines, the Pro Football Hall of Fame in Canton, Ohio.  On January 18, 2000, the Visa Hall of Fans exhibit will welcome the newest group of 31 loyal fans by honoring them alongside the players and coaches they have tirelessly supported.  As part of his selection, Andrews will receive a two-day trip for two to Canton for a special ceremony with Hall of Fame inductee and Visa Hall of Fans spokesperson, Roger Staubach. 

Andrews learned everything he knows about football from his late Uncle Bill (a.k.a. "Willie the Rooter"), a legendary Baltimore Colts fan.  Now that Baltimore has a new team, the same loyal fans can be found in “Birds of Prey, Raven's Nest #1".  Led by Andrews, a group of fans inspires Baltimore with their energy and Andrews' developed "Fan Van," decorated with hundreds of signatures from Raven's players, owners, cheerleaders, and Baltimore TV and radio media. 

"Ultimate fans put their talents and efforts to the task when showing their support for their team's performances," said Andrews.  This creativity continues with Andrews' "dress-out" for game days, consisting of a team jersey, Ravens wings, Ravens headgear, custom shoes, purple camouflage pants, painted game face, "caw" horn, and sometimes purple hair.  Why he even has his own trading card. 

The Visa Hall of Fans exhibit will showcase pictures and testimonials from each honoree that show why they are the ultimate fans.  The exhibit will also feature famous fan mementos, a high-energy film on the NFL's most dedicated and sometimes outrageous fans, and a plaque commemorating past Visa Hall of Fans honorees. 

Visa conducted a nationwide search to find the "ultimate fan" from each of the 31 NFL teams.  Selected by a panel of NFL, Hall of Fame and Visa representatives, these avid fans are among the most loyal, devoted and enthusiastic fans in pro football. 

Established in 1963, the Pro Football Hall of Fame is the ultimate shrine for football legends.  From Johnny Unitas to Roger Staubach, each inductee is synonymous with dedication, team leadership and athletic excellence.  The addition of the Visa hall of Fans exhibit brings the best players and fans together.