The Chicago Bears and the NFL have announced that the application process for the fourth annual NFL Fan of the Year contest is now open.
The goal of the contest is to recognize and celebrate extraordinary fans who inspire others through their love of football.
Fans have the opportunity to submit applications to nominate themselves or other deserving individuals for this prestigious award.
Chicago is renowned for its loyal and dedicated fan base within the NFL. If you know someone who possesses the ability to ignite enthusiasm among others and enhance the gameday experience, here is how you can nominate them:
- Visit NFL.com/FanOfTheYear to initiate the nomination process.
- Each submission will be evaluated based on the following criteria: passion, enthusiasm and fandom for your favorite team and the NFL, an inspirational story and community spirit
- Application must be submitted by Oct. 2, 2023.
This program, developed in collaboration with all 32 NFL clubs, aims to highlight fans who share a deep connection with their local team, inspire others and demonstrate how football unites families, friends and local communities. During Weeks 8-9 of the regular season, each team will select one fan as their official "Fan of the Year." The chosen fan will receive an all-expenses-paid trip to Super Bowl LVIII in Paradise, Nevada, including two tickets and a VIP experience. The ultimate winner will be announced at NFL Honors and will be crowned as the "NFL Fan of the Year" during Super Bowl weekend, providing them with the opportunity to represent their team on one of the NFL's grandest stages.
Last year, the Bears honored Corey Schieler as the team's 2022 Fan of the Year. Schieler was recognized for his lifelong fandom to the Bears and his outstanding service to the community as a Wish Granter for Make-A-Wish Illinois. Through his selfless efforts, Schieler granted over 34 wishes, including a breathtaking rappel off a towering Chicago skyscraper to generate funds for wish granting. As the Bears' nominee, Schieler was awarded two tickets to Super Bowl LVII, round-trip airfare, a four-day hotel stay in Glendale, Arizona, two passes to the NFL Honors event and various other privileges.
"Being honored as the Bears FOTY has been a wonderful experience," Schieler said. "It has not only been a source of personal pride but has also served as an inspiration to countless others to give back to their communities after hearing my Make-A-Wish stories. Embracing the mantra of 'Football is family,' the Chicago Bears FOTY experience provided me with an incredible opportunity to connect with other amazing FOTY from other NFL teams from all corners of this great country."
Previous Bears nominees for the prestigious NFL Fan of the Year include Paul Videtich (2020), a retired CT technologist of 43 years, and Destiny Blackmon (2021), a dedicated nurse who has served on the frontlines throughout the challenging period of the COVID pandemic. Both Paul and Destiny share a deep passion for the Bears and have received comparable recognition and experiences from the team and NFL, much like Schieler.
For more information about the NFL Fan of the Year initiative, please visit NFL.com/honors/fan-of-the-year.
