Normally we only promote things around here to get free stuff, but this is a good cause and the man who is promoting it, Bob Ibach, is also the guy responsible for a lot of the promotions for the Maple Street Press books (including our very own Yea Alabama) and the man who got me on WJOX, so even if it wasn't worthwhile we would still probably kind of owe him. Thankfully, though, this is worthwhile:
There hasn’t been this much excitement and optimism around the program since the Tide won its 12th national title in 1992. All of this renewed optimism is bringing some smiles at the Make-A-Wish Foundation of Georgia and Alabama with the announcement today of a special program to raise funds for many youngsters who have life-threatening medical conditions and who look to their local Make-A-Wish Foundation for support to grant them wishes.
Nikco Sports will produce a limited edition, full-sized football (just 2,009 will be made) to celebrate Alabama’s turnaround season and upcoming bowl game on January 2 against undefeated Utah (12-0) in the Louisiana Superdome, the 56th bowl appearance in Alabama history and 2nd BCS bowl game. These footballs are priced at $69.95 each. In recent years, Nikco Sports has raised close to $1.7 million for children’s charities and other special endeavors.
Fans can order the footballs while the supply lasts by calling 1-800-345-2868 or visiting www.nikcosports.com. Each football comes with a numbered certificate of authenticity.
The football will feature two distinct and attractive white panels, each one full of historic and important information. These will not be sold elsewhere, making it a "must-have" for any diehard Bama fan, something that can be displayed proudly at home, in an office or used as a fundraising gift at golf events or silent auctions.
Fans can also download a special holiday gift flyer right off the Nikco Sports website to use for the upcoming holiday season.
You can get more information about the ball at their website, and here is what it will look like:
click to enlarge