“I’ve always been a fan of the Special Olympics and always knew it was a great cause,” said Hawk who arrived at the games in a black stretch limousine.  

During an initial introduction, Hawk talked about his family connection with the organization.

“My Aunt competed in Special Olympics her whole life. She passed away four years ago but it was the last year she competed she finally won a medal and that was huge for her. We always saw how happy this made her."

Taking questions from the audience, Hawk was asked about the team changing to a 3-4 defense but then the kids took over.

“What year were you born,” said one boy dressed in a black t-shirt with a Pixar Cars animation on the front. “I was born in 1984 so I’m a little older than you," said Hawk who was humble when another youngerst boldly asked what team he played for. “I play for the Green Bay Packer; it’s about an hour and a half away from here.”

Asked whether he played quarterback, Hawk said he was currently a linebacker but he did play Q.B. in high school.