Tuesday, December 15, 2009

MARK HERZLICH RECEIVES HONORARY LOTT TROPHY


On Sunday Boston College linebacker Mark Herzlich received an honorary Lott Trophy, becoming the second player in history to earn the honorary award and the first to earn it since Pat Tillman in 2004. The Lott Trophy committee also donated $5,000 to Uplifting Athletes to help fund cancer research.

I watched the broadcast of the award ceremony tonight on FSN, and Mark looked great. Congratulations Mark. Well deserved. Here's to you winning the Lott Trophy outright next year.

Friday, December 11, 2009

MARK HERZLICH WITH THE DISNEY SPIRIT AWARD

Here is Mark last night at the Home Depot College Football Awards Show. There was a great feature highlighting his amazing story, followed by an inspirational interview with Mark on stage. Mark wrapped up the interview assuring Tim Tebow, the 2008 Disney Spirit Award winner, that he will be the player with the most determination on the field next season.

No doubt.

Wednesday, December 9, 2009

2009 IN A NUT SHELL

MARK TO RECEIVE DISNEY SPIRIT AWARD - TOMORROW ON ESPN

Mark will be receiving the Disney Spirit Award during tomorrow's Home Depot Awards show on ESPN. 7pm-9pm EST.

I'll be watching. Will you?

Monday, December 7, 2009

Sunday, December 6, 2009

BC TO PLAY USC IN EMERALD BOWL


Boston College will be playing in the Emerald Bowl against USC. The game starts at 8PM EST on December 26th. Let's hope that Santa will save one gift for the Eagles this Christmas.

Go Eagles!

ACC = A Conference with Class

Open Letter From The Herzlich Family-

My son is Mark Herzlich, the Boston College linebacker who has spent the past 7 months battling cancer. I just wanted to send you a note saying how impressed my entire family has been by the comraderie and sportsmanship of the schools in the ACC. From opposing teams, to their fans and even to the officials organization - everyone has been supportive of Mark in his efforts. The number of groups that sacrificed personally to raise funds in Mark's honor to support cancer research has been awesome and humbling.

We are blessed and grateful that it appears that Mark has beaten this awful disease and his level of recuperation over the next 6 months will determine whether he can return to the playing field. His intent is to do so. However, before we start down that next path I wanted to relflect upon and appreciate how much the ACC has made this intial part of the journey bearable.

I truly think that this is something unique to the ACC. It is a conference with class. In reading about the backbiting and vitrolence in amoungst teams of other major conference, it's a pleasure to be associated with one whose members can both compete hammer and tong on the playing field but still appreciate, support and celebrate their opponents. Without quality opponents, there is no game. Too often that's forgotten in the world of sport, but not in the ACC.

Best wishes for a festive and fruitful holiday and bowl season.

Sandon M. Herzlich, Sr.

MARK HERZLICH AWARDED THE 2009 ACC COMMISSIONER'S CUP


In recognition of his tremendous courage, perseverance and inspiration, ACC Commissioner John Swofford will honor Mark Herzlich with the Commissioner's Cup. The cup is given at the Commissioner's discretion and this marks the first to be awarded to a student-athlete.

Wednesday, December 2, 2009

MARK HERZLICH IS A NOMINEE FOR THE FEDEX ORANGE BOWL'S COURAGE AWARD

Mark has been nominated, along with 7 other individuals and the UConn Football Team, for this year's FedEx Orange Bowl Courage Award. Each week the Football Writers Association of America (FWAA) voted on and selected one individual, or team in UConn's case, that displayed an act of courage that stood out from the rest. The requirements for the nomination include "displaying courage on or off the field, including overcoming an injury and living through hardship." Kind of a no brainer looking back at Mark's battle with Ewing's Sarcoma this season.

A blue-ribbon panel will determine the winner from all of the nominees. The winner of the FedEx Orange Bowl-FWAA Courage Award will be announced in December and be presented with the trophy. The Courage Award was created by ESPN The Magazine's senior writer Gene Wojciechowski, also a FWAA member. A select group of writers from the FWAA vote on the winner each year.

This year’s nominees include:
Sept. 23: D.J. Williams, Arkansas
Sept. 30: Mark Herzlich, Boston College
Oct. 8: Darius Nall, Central Florida
Oct. 14: Ricky Rosas, USC
Oct. 21: Derrick Coleman, UCLA
Oct. 28: University of Connecticut Football Team
Nov. 4: Antoine "Shaky" Smithson, Utah
Nov. 11: Dan Potokar, Ohio State

Nov. 18: Thomas "Rock" Roggeman, East Carolina

We want to congratulate all of the nominees this year, but especially Mark. We believe it takes a hell of a lot more than courage to do what Mark has done. Not only did he battle and beat the cancer within his own body, but he inspired a nation to raise money to help others beat cancer. To date the donations are reaching $200,000. That is a pretty huge helping of courage if you ask us.

Wednesday, November 25, 2009

HAPPY THANKSGIVING HERZNATION - A LETTER FROM SANDY HERZLICH

A letter from Mark's father:

Just wanted to send out a quick update as we (hopefully) wind down all this cancer crap.

Mark finished his chemo treatments on November 2nd which marked a great milestone. His test have all come back clean and the doctors are as sure as they can ever be that he's cancer free. We still have to keep our fingers crossed for the next 5 years, but we're entering the "cancer survivor" stage in as good a position as possible.

On Monday of this week Mark underwent surgery to have a titanium rod inserted in the inside of his femur to provide extra strength and stability for the bone that was weakened by both cancer and the treatment. His surgeon, Dr. Dick Lachman, couldn't have been more pleased with the results of the surgery. He said that they got the rod and the accompanying screws exactly where they wanted them. There was no sign of cancer in the bone and the bone itself was very hard and strong.

Mark was up walking, albeit a little unsteadily, on Tuesday and will be coming home from the hospital today. He's in a little bit of pain, but that's not unexpected given the disruption his leg and muscles took during surgery. Everyone keeps telling us it's nothing to worry about, so I'm not worried. We look forward to having the family gathered around the Thanksgiving table on Thursday!

On Saturday, we'll drive down to the University of Maryland for the BC football game and Mark will rejoin his teammates and fly back to Boston with them!

Thanks to everyone for your thoughts and prayers as Mark's fought this battle. The support as been felt, is meaningful and helpful. Best to everyone this Thanksgiving holiday. I know that the Herzlich's have a lot to be thankful for.

- Sandy Herzlich

Monday, November 23, 2009

MARK HERZLICH'S SURGERY OVER AND VERY SUCCESSFUL!

I received word this afternoon that Mark is awake and recovering wonderfully after having a rod inserted into his left femur. The Doctor's relayed to the family that "the surgery went great, the bone is extremely strong, and that there is no sign of disease."

Now we recover. Mark will be in the hospital tonight and tomorrow for observation, and then he will return home for Thanksgiving and begin his quick recovery process. After the holiday Mark will return to the sidelines to coach up the Eagles in their final two games of the season. Then he will prepare his travel schedule for the "Awards Season" to follow.

Stay Strong. Stay Up.

Sunday, November 22, 2009

MARK HERZLICH TO UNDERGO SURGERY TOMORROW

Mark will undergo surgery tomorrow to insert a metal rod into his left femur that has been compromised by Ewing's Sarcoma and subsequent radiation treatments. The procedure will include an incision on the upper leg (hip) gaining access to the top of the femur. The surgeon will then drill the length of the femur and insert a metal rod. Then they will lock it into place with screws, and sew him up. The doctors are anticipating a 2 week recovery period from the surgery only because of the incision... the femur will be load bearing immediately after surgery. Unreal!

Take your time do it right. Let's get this man back to 110%!

Mark we're here for you. STAY UP!

Friday, November 20, 2009

HERZNATION DONATION PUTS BC'S UPLIFTING ATHLETES OVER $100,000 MARK!


We achieved a milestone together. Today marks a momentous occasion as the net proceeds from HerzWear Online put the Boston College Chapter of Uplifting Athletes over the $100,000 mark.

Absolutely amazing! Thank you to all who have shown their support!

The funds collected by the BC Chapter of Uplifting Athletes go directly to Ewing's Sarcoma Research.

Wednesday, November 18, 2009

MARK TO RECEIVE DISNEY SPIRIT AWARD

Boston College linebacker Mark Herzlich, who recently overcame a rare form of bone cancer and helped inspire more than $120,000 in donations for cancer-related causes, has been selected for the Disney Spirit Award given annually by Disney Sports to college football's most inspirational figure.

Herzlich will be presented with the award during The Home Depot ESPNU College Football Awards at Walt Disney World Resort on Thursday, Dec. 10. The 19th annual awards show is scheduled for 7-9 p.m. ET and will be televised live on ESPN.

"The Disney Spirit Award is an award that means more to me than any award based on statistics and on-the-field achievements," Herzlich said. "I have had to battle a deadly rare disease this past year and, along with beating the disease, I was fortunate to be able to help others along the way. To be recognized with this award is an honor and I hope that it shows people around the world that there is hope and that it will encourage them to continue to battle."

"Mark's indomitable spirit in the face of such a devastating illness and his extraordinary support of cancer research embodies the true essence of the Disney Spirit Award," said Ken Potrock, senior vice president of Disney Sports Enterprises. "Disney Sports is proud to honor Mark for his courage, optimism, support of other cancer patients, and his determination to return to the football field next season. He is truly an inspiration to all of us."

Full Post

Monday, November 16, 2009

HOO'S FOR HERZLICH A HUGE SUCCESS

UVA continued the fundraising efforts for Mark this weekend with their "Hoo's for Herzlich 94" campaign. Sponsored by the UVA Student Council and the "Hoo Crew", students and fans were able to donate to Mark's cause and raise money to be donated to Uplifting Athletes. The UVA players also took part by sacrificing their per diem for the week. A pretty amazing gesture from the program.

"As captains, we got together and were like, 'What's the easiest way to come up with a donation that's not going to require everybody to bring money?' " Clark said. "These are college kids that we're talking about."

This latest installment by UVA brings the donations to Uplifting Athletes to $92,031.49, very close to their goal of $100,000 in 2009.

Here's to getting to that $100,000 mark. Thank you to all of you who have donated and aided in Mark's treatment and recovery.

Wednesday, November 4, 2009

CELEBRATE. REMEMBER. FIGHT BACK. BUT MOSTLY CELEBRATE!


Beginning February 12th, 2010 at 6pm and finishing at 6am on the 13th. Boston College will host the American Cancer Society's Relay for Life Event at "The Plex" on the BC Campus. Mark Herzlich has created the HerzNation Team and would like you to be part of it.


"As many of you know I have been battling for my life over the past six months. I have as of November 2, 2009 finished my last treatment and now am on the road to recovery."

"I have met and heard from thousands of men, women and children who are suffering from cancers far worse than I had. This relay is an easy and fun way for everyone to show their support for lost loved ones, survivors as well as the millions of Americans across the country who are struggling as we speak to stay alive."


"I have had doctors at numerous medical facilities ask if there is any way that I could raise money in order for them to get newer machines and better scientific minds to their hospitals. I have discussed with them how small donations from lots of people who care really add up and really can save lives."


"Please donate even if you cannot make the event, as a few dollars out of your pocket will go towards saving the lives of millions."


"As I have finished my treatments and plan on returning to the football field next September, I have taken the initiative to raise awareness for not only my disease but all cancers in general. So far I have been able to raise close to $200,000 with the help from fans, supporters, teammates and many more people across the country. "


"Let's take the next step! Donate Now and remember to always...STAY UP!"


To help Mark meet his fundraising goal. Please visit Mark's Page.


To join the HerzNation Team and help them meet their fundraising goal. Please visit the HerzNation Teampage.

GREAT NEWS FOR MARK HERZLICH

Saturday, October 31, 2009

MARK HERZLICH TO RECEIVE HONORARY LOTT TROPHY

Newport Beach, Ca. – Boston College Linebacker Mark Herzlich, who has missed the entire 2009 football season while undergoing treatment for cancer, will receive an honorary Lott Trophy, it was announced today by the Board of Directors of The Pacific Club IMPACT Foundation, sponsors of the award.

It is only the second time an honorary Lott Trophy has been awarded, the first going to the family of Pat Tillman in 2004. Tillman, the former college and NFL standout, volunteered for the military and was killed in Afghanistan.

“Mark Herzlich represents all that is good in today’s student-athlete and epitomizes what we look for in Lott Trophy candidates,” said John Hamilton, Chairman of the Board of the IMPACT Foundation. “His perseverance, attitude and good works are an inspiration to all of us who love college football.”

Herzlich, a senior from Wayne, Pa., was the ACC Defensive Player of the Year last season and also an Academic all-conference selection majoring in finance. He led Boston College in tackles with 113 and had six interceptions. He was a quarter-finalist for The Lott Trophy in 2008 and on the Watch List for 2009.

Friday, October 23, 2009

ND TO CONTINUE FUNDRAISING FOR MARK HERZLICH

Be sure to tune into the game tomorrow on NBC. At 3:30pm there will be a very special presentation for Mark Herzlich in South Bend. Set your DVR's.

Friday, October 16, 2009

MARK HERZLICH HONORED WITH A SPOT ON THE 2009 BUTKUS AWARD LIST

“We have another outstanding group of linebackers,” said Dick Butkus, the award’s namesake. “This Award is about honoring linebackers, and reminding them that they have a responsibility to serve as role models and to give back to society.”

In that spirit, the 51-person selection committee elected to include Mark Herzlich from Boston College, who was a finalist in 2008. Herzlich was diagnosed in May 2009 with a rare bone cancer and has been unable to play as he completes treatment and has surgery later this year. He intends to return to the Boston College starting lineup in the fall of 2010.

“Mark Herzlich would have been a top contender for the Butkus Award this year had it not been for his illness,” said Hub Arkush of Pro Football Weekly, who supervises selectors. “The committee is so impressed with his inspirational story of recovery that we wanted to add him as a nominee.”

Congratulations to all those nominated.

  • Obi Ezeh, Michigan
  • Chris Galippo, Southern California
  • Mark Herzlich, Boston College
  • Greg Jones, Michigan State
  • Sergio Kindle, Texas
  • Sean Lee, Penn State
  • Travis Lewis, Oklahoma
  • Rolando McClain, Alabama
  • Von Miller, Texas A&M
  • Brandon Spikes, Florida
  • Daryl Washington, Texas Christian
  • Sean Weatherspoon, Missouri
  • Eric Norwood, South Carolina
  • Perry Riley, Louisiana State
  • Quan Sturdivant, North Carolina
  • Rennie Curran, Georgia

Wednesday, October 7, 2009

WHAT MARK MISSES MOST ABOUT PLAYING

MUST READ: MARK HERZLICH'S MESSAGE

This article was brought to my attention and I think it's a must read. B.J. Bennett from SouthernPigskin.com does an amazing job, here's an excerpt:

"Even if just for a few minutes, Boston College linebacker Mark Herzlich helped us find ourselves Saturday afternoon. Though he may not known it, he grabbed us, shook us and showed us how to live life and appreciate the many gifts we all have. "

Tuesday, October 6, 2009

THANK YOU HERZNATION

We have no words. Stay Up!

Wednesday, September 30, 2009

CREATE SIGNS FOR COLLEGE GAMEDAY

I hereby grant you permission to use these images for signs on College Gameday Oct.3rd 2009. - The Herznation. (Just click on the image to launch it in a new window. Save it to your computer and take it to a print shop to blow it up. Or make a collage and paste them on poster boards. Get creative.) Let's see you out there representing HerzNation during College Gameday!






Tuesday, September 29, 2009

ESPN's COLLEGE GAMEDAY COMES TO CHESTNUT HILL


Chestnut Hill will be the setting for ESPN's College Gameday this Saturday(starting 10am EST), and I think that Mark Herzlich is a big reason for the trip. Last week an ESPN crew spent the day with Mark and his family last week documenting his chemo treatments and interviewing his family. I foresee a sit down interview with Mark on that College Gameday stage and then a feature on Mark's treatment and recovery.

This is going to be a huge day for Boston College Football and a great show of respect to Mark Herzlich. Show your support, wear your gold, and get there early.

Hey Mark... Stay Up! Go Eagles!

Thursday, September 24, 2009

ESPN IS FILMING A DAY WITH MARK HERZLICH - LOOKS LIKE GOOD NEWS


ACC FUNDRAISING EFFORTS FOR MARK HERZLICH CONTINUE WITH VT


Before kickoff last week, the Clemson Tiger's presented Mark Herzlich with a check for $5,000 to aid in the advancement of Ewing's Sarcoma research. This was an amazing gesture of love and respect for an amazing player, and it looks like that trend will continue with Virginia Tech. HD reports that Virginia Tech will be selling "Team United" wristbands leading up to the October 10th showdown with Boston College. VT is hoping to raise $5,094 and present Mark with the check before the game.

All money will be going to Uplifting Athletes, the same non profit organization that joined with the Eagles to raise over $15,000 during the "Lift for Life" event at Boston College. Please show your support if you can. I hope that this trend continues throughout the ACC. Well done.

"Wrist bands will also be available at the University Bookstore, Volume II and the Hokie Stadium Shops in Lane Stadium. Individuals or groups wishing to purchase a minimum of 100 wrist bands can do so by emailing the Virginia Tech Football Office at lepperly@vt.edu. Checks are to be made out to Uplifting Athletes and no credit card orders will be taken."

Wednesday, September 23, 2009

A LETTER TO CLEMSON FANS FROM MARK HERZLICH'S FATHER

Sept. 22, 2009

Dear Clemson Fans:

First - My son is Mark Herzlich, the BC linebacker recovering from Cancer. The entire Tiger Nation should be proud of the complete class your entire program carries itself with. I wear a copy of Mark's jersey to games and I lost track of the number of Clemson fans who approached me to wish him well and to say that they were praying for him. These are people who don't know me, don't know Mark and have little reason to even be aware of his situation yet were both aware and involved enough to say some kind words. Thank you.

Second, for those who missed it, prior to the game Coach Swinney presented Mark with a Clemson jersey signed by the whole team with Mark's #94 on it. I've never seen such an outstanding and unsolicited display of sportsmanship.

Finally, throughout the weekend the major topic of conversation outside football was the graciousness of the Clemson fan base. All of us commented on how welcoming everyone was, both before and after the game. I've been to Clemson before and interacted with Clemson fans in Boston so I wasn't suprised any more but I was glad to see my friends get the message too. There was absolutely no lack of support or fanatacism for Clemson football but it was all wrapped up in an understanding that competing doesn't mean hating, that you need an opponent to play a game and that there's a difference between an opponent and an enemy. My younger son, who's used to the whole us versus them attitude in a lot of fan bases turned to me at one point and said, "you just can't hate these guys!"

Clemson continues to be my favorite road trip. I always root for Boston College to go undefeated and win the ACC, but in the years that it can't be us, I hope it's you.

If you're going to be a bear - be a grizzly!

-Sandon Herzlich

Wednesday, September 16, 2009

Saturday, September 12, 2009

MARK HERZLICH ROCKS THE TOWEL

AP Photo/Mary Schwalm
Mark Herzlich coached from the sidelines today at Alumni Stadium as the Eagles beat Kent State 34 - 7. Mark wears Coach Spaziani's signature towel that is now his responsibility for the season. Looking good Mark.

Let's get the guys ready for next week. Stay Up!

Friday, September 11, 2009

NEW VIDEO FROM FOX SPORTS

HERZLICH VIDEO ON RAYCOM SPORTS


Raycom Sports has a small feature on Mark Herzlich that is a little melodramatic, but good. Check out their new Boston College team page and the video here.

Thursday, September 10, 2009

2009 BC PREVIEW VIDEO



It's a little long, but Herzlich gets some good face time.

Monday, September 7, 2009

"LIFT FOR LIFE" FOLLOW UP ON ESPN'S CAMPUS CONNECTION

MARK HERZLICH'S ARTICLE ON "THE GOOD MEN PROJECT"

Before the season began Mark Herzlich wrote "Turning Points", an article featured on the front inside cover of the 2009 Boston College Football Media Guide. We've been waiting for an online version of the story and it's finally here. The guys over at "The Good Men Project" invited Mark to be a guest blogger. Please click here to read it.

MARK HERZLICH'S NECN INTERVIEW BEFORE LAST SATURDAY'S GAME



My last minute visit to Boston College was unexpectedly documented in this short NECN.com interview with Mark Herzlich. He is a beast!

Go Eagles! Congrats on the win. Let's get ready for this Saturday.

Tuesday, September 1, 2009

HAPPY BIRTHDAY MARK!


Wishing you the happiest of birthdays Mark. Stay Up!

Monday, August 31, 2009

Sunday, August 23, 2009

HERZLICH ON TWITTER YESTERDAY


Although his tweet raises a myriad of questions, it is great to hear that Mark is already thinking about getting back in the gym. I would hesitate to broadcast that Mark will be hitting the gym regularly but I know that he's itching to be out there with his teammates.

Amazing news Mark. Take it slow. Do it right. We here at HerzNation can't wait to get you back on the field next season.

Stay Up! Go Eagles!

Wednesday, August 19, 2009

COACH SPAZIANI TALKS HERZLICH AND THE HURDLES FOR THE EAGLES


Coach Spaziani talked to ESPN's HD yesterday and fully expects to have Herzlich on the sidelines come September.

Hey Mark...Stay Up!

Tuesday, August 18, 2009

HERZLICH MAKES IT TO RON BRACES FIRST NFL GAME


Mark was able to make it to Ron Brace's first NFL preseason game. Here's what Ron had to say:

"If you know Mark, you know that the way he's reacting to this is not out of the ordinary for Mark," he said. "He's going to take everything head on. He works hard. He's going to do what he can to beat this cancer and get back on the field. He knows he's going to beat this. I'm rooting for him."

We're happy to hear that you were able to get to the game. Stay Up!

Friday, August 14, 2009

BC EAGLES MEDIA DAY - MCLAUGHLIN TALKS HERZLICH


Today was media day for the 2009 Boston College Eagles. LB Mike McLaughlin talked Mark Herzlich:

On how much he has spoken with Mark Herzlich:
"Mark is a special kid, he really is. I'm sure he has a million people calling him and asking how everything is going. I just spoke to him Sunday night, the first night we reported, so I'm probably going to give him a call as soon as I can. It's great to hear his voice. He is such an optimistic kid, he's been one of the greats here and he's a good friend of mine on top of that."

On what it would mean to have Herzlich on the sidelines:
"It makes a world of difference. He and I have talked about that and I think that would only benefit the whole team. You're talking about a big-time player and a big-time person, that's who he is. I think it would do nothing but great things to have him around."

Wednesday, August 12, 2009

ESPN's HD SAYS THAT ACC FANS WILL BE MISSING OUT IN '09


ESPN's HD said today that ACC fans are going to be missing out this season, in large part to the the absence of Mark Herzlich.

"Without Herzlich, Boston College will miss the best defender in the conference, and one of the most inspirational, well-spoken student-athletes I've had the pleasure of interviewing... it's like setting sail without your captain."

Although he won't physically be in the huddle this season, Mark Herzlich is going to be in the hearts and minds of each and every player, coach, ball boy, and fan in the stadium. Before the first whistle blows, the entire world will look down on that sideline and see #94, ready, and focused on the task at hand...to inspire those men who have stood by his side throughout this entire process.

All controversy aside. We at HerzNation cannot wait to see what BC can do with the power of Mark Herzlich behind them. Pray 'til it Herz!

Monday, August 10, 2009

BOSTON COLLEGE NOW SELLING NUMBER 94 JERSEYS


Boston College is now selling Number 94 Jerseys through their online store. They are the Reebok replica jerseys and they're going for $60 a pop. Hopefully this will inspire the entire Boston College football community to show up in a sea of 94 jerseys for the first home game.

Pray 'til it Herz!

Monday, August 3, 2009

YOU MUST READ THIS ARTICLE


The Boston Globe's Bob Hohler has said what everyone is thinking.

"Here’s his plan, crazy as it may sound for a patient with a rare, highly malignant bone cancer. Mark Herzlich tips his cap to the chemo nurses and radiation team. He bids farewell to the volunteers who delivered him snacks while drugs dripped through a line into his chest. He thanks the oncologists, surgeons, parking attendants, everyone whose path he crossed on his incredible journey from ill-fated cancer patient to hulking survivor."

"Then he plays football again. Boston College football. Atlantic Coast Conference football. And, yes, NFL football."

Read the Full Article here.

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