ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. --- The Gildan New Mexico Bowl is pleased to announce Joe Theismann as the featured guest speaker at the annual kickoff luncheon hosted by Isleta Resort and Casino. The luncheon, which will be attended by the participating teams on Friday, Dec. 20 at 11:30 a.m., will be preceded by a press conference at 10:30 a.m.
“We are looking forward to hosting Joe Theismann in Albuquerque and having him speak at the luncheon,” said Jeff Siembieda, Gildan New Mexico Bowl Executive Director. “I know the student-athletes and everyone in attendance will enjoy hearing what he has to say. Joe is a first class individual who is universally respected for his professional accomplishments. He will be a tremendous addition to the great list of speakers we have welcomed to this event.”

A very limited number of tickets are available to the public. Tickets are $75 and can be purchased by calling the Gildan New Mexico Bowl office at 505-925-5999.
The eighth annual Gildan New Mexico Bowl will kick off the collegiate bowl season for the fifth straight year, and is scheduled to pit a member of the Mountain West against a member of the Pac-12 Conference. Kickoff from University Stadium in Albuquerque, is slated for Saturday, Dec. 21. It will air on ESPN HD and ESPN Radio at noon MST (2 p.m. EST).

About Joe Theismann
Joe Theismann is an entrepreneur and the former star quarterback for the Washington Redskins. He spent the last two decades working for ESPN on their NFL broadcast and the NFL Network.
A 1971 graduate of University of Notre Dame, Theismann received All-American honors and led the Fighting Irish to consecutive Cotton Bowls and was runner-up to Jim Plunkett in the Heisman Trophy balloting. In 2003, he was inducted into the College Football Hall of Fame.
After turning down offers from the Minnesota Twins and Miami Dolphins, Theismann began his pro career in the Canadian Football League, spending three years with the Toronto Argonauts before joining the Redskins in 1974. From the humble beginnings as a punt returner to Super Bowl Champion, Theismann has experienced many of the challenges we all face in our constant quest to find success, by overcoming adversity.
As a 12 year NFL veteran, Theismann played in 163 consecutive games from 1974 to 1985 and holds the Redskin record for passing yards, completions and attempts. He was a two time Pro Bowl selection and led the Redskins to a 27-17 victory over the Miami Dolphins in Super Bowl XVII.
In 1982, Theismann was elected the NFL’s Man of the Year for his community service and dedication to the health and welfare of children. In 1983, he won the league’s MVP award. Then, in 1985, his career was abruptly cut short when his leg was shattered in a game against the New York Giants on Monday Night Football.
Today, Theismann oversees a popular Washington DC restaurant that bears his name. Staying true to his concern for children, he is a member on the Sports Advisory Board of St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.