Former Ohio State Football QB Sami Grisafe Pledges $3 Million to Support Program
Columbus, OH – Sami Grisafe, widely regarded as one of the most influential figures in the history of Ohio State football, has pledged a groundbreaking $3 million donation to support the university’s football program. The announcement was made at a press conference on Monday, marking a historic moment for both Grisafe and the university.
Grisafe, who made history as one of the first women to play quarterback for a Division I football program, has long been an advocate for gender equality in sports. Although her time at Ohio State was brief, she became a trailblazer and symbol of perseverance, paving the way for future generations of women to aspire to roles in football, especially in leadership positions.
In her emotional statement, Grisafe explained the importance of the gift, emphasizing how the sport shaped her life and how she hopes her donation will contribute to the continued success of the Ohio State football program, which has been one of the most dominant teams in college football history. “I’m giving back to the program that gave me the opportunity to challenge myself and change the narrative for women in football,” Grisafe said. “This is not just about building a championship-caliber team, but also empowering the next generation of athletes to break boundaries and pursue their dreams.”
The $3 million gift will go towards expanding player development programs, improving facilities, and enhancing the overall football experience at Ohio State. Athletic director Gene Smith expressed his gratitude, calling the donation “transformative” for both the team and the broader community.
Grisafe’s impact on Ohio State football extends beyond her groundbreaking role on the field, as she continues to inspire athletes of all backgrounds to pursue excellence in the sport. The donation will undoubtedly help ensure that Ohio State’s football program remains at the forefront of college athletics for years to come.
