Organizational Structure

  • A Board of Directors consisting of at least nine members manages Gridiron Heroes Spinal Cord Injury Organization. Each is elected to a two-year term and may be nominated and elected again at the end of the two-year cycle. The Board of Directors oversees all activities of the organization, including the distribution of funds to athletes and families we serve. The Board Members vote on every major issue relating to Gridiron Heroes and they are responsible for the adoption of the yearly budget. The Board of Directors acts within the guidelines outlined in the Gridiron Heroes Spinal Cord Injury Bylaws, which were adopted in February of 2003.

  • Gridiron Heroes Staff reports to the Board of Directors. Current staff includes two employees who are responsible for the day-to-day operation of the organization, including most of the promotional and fund raising activities. The staff has personal contact with the athletes and families we serve, and keeps up with each athlete's status and needs. The staff maintains relationships with the "football community," including various coaches, coach associations, media, and sports related businesses and clubs.

  • Gridiron Heroes Spinal Cord Injury Organization operates with guidance from three advisory boards:

    • Medical Advisory Board: Consisting of five doctors who specialize in the spine, spinal cord, physical therapy, and/or sports medicine.
    • Financial Advisory Board: Consisting of three individuals in the banking and investment industry.
    • Legal Counsel: Consisting of two lawyers.

  • Funds are raised to provide for the specific needs of each of our injured athletes and their families. Fund raising efforts include, but are not limited to: solicitation of private donors, foundation grants, corporate sponsorships, and special events.




    Advisory Committee

    David Bailiff, Head Football Coach, Rice

    Peter Berg, Hollywood Actor/Director

    Mack Brown, Head Football Coach, Texas

    Ronny Flowers, Owner, Athletic Supply, Inc.

    Dennis Franchione, Former Head Football Coach,
    Texas A&M

    Jerry King-Echaverria, Owner, King Aerospace

    Red McCombs, Former Owner, San Antonio Spurs, Denver Nuggets and Minnesota Vikings


    Board Members

    Ron Booker, Chair

    Surcie Thompson, Vice Chair

    Patrick M. Canales, Secretary

    Eric Mery, Treasurer

    Terri Balderrama Booker

    Crystal Brown-Tatum

    Dr. Charles Kemble

    Roberto D. Valdez

    Eddie Canales, Founder & Volunteer Executive Director