“NFL Legend Howie Long Donates $25 Million to Clark County School District to Revitalize Public School Football: ‘Every Kid Deserves a Shot at Greatness’”
In a monumental act of generosity that is sending shockwaves through the Las Vegas community, NFL Hall of Famer and Fox Sports analyst Howie Long has donated $25 million to the Clark County School District (CCSD) to help rejuvenate and expand football programs across its public schools.
The donation is one of the largest private contributions in Nevada public school athletic history, aimed squarely at upgrading facilities, ensuring equipment safety, expanding access, and leveling the playing field for student-athletes regardless of economic background.
“Football gave me everything,” Long said during a press conference held at Las Vegas High School. “Discipline, confidence, family, and a future. If I can help one kid find their purpose like I did, then this money was more than worth it.”
A Game-Changer for Las Vegas Football
Long’s donation will be allocated across multiple initiatives within the CCSD system:
- Renovation of outdated football fields and installation of modern synthetic turf in underfunded schools.
- Funding for helmets, pads, and safety gear to ensure injury prevention and compliance with the latest health standards.
- Establishment of coaching clinics and mentorship programs for aspiring coaches.
- Scholarships for students facing economic hardship to cover team fees and travel costs.
“Too many kids in Las Vegas are passionate and talented, but they lack the tools,” said CCSD Superintendent Jesus Jara. “Howie Long has just changed the trajectory of countless young lives.”
Long’s Legacy Off the Field
Though known for his dominance on the gridiron and his presence on television, Long has quietly been a longtime advocate for youth sports, particularly in underserved communities.
His decision to invest in the Las Vegas public school system stems from a visit he made in 2024, when he toured several CCSD football fields and spoke to coaches and players who described financial struggles, aging equipment, and a need for inspiration.
“I saw kids playing their hearts out on cracked turf, with torn pads,” Long recalled. “They deserve better. Not just for football, but for life.”
️ What the Donation Means
Schools like Desert Pines, Cheyenne High School, and Eldorado—once powerhouses but recently hit by funding limitations—are expected to receive immediate upgrades under the initiative. Plans are already underway for a state-of-the-art football complex that will serve as a central training ground and tournament site for Las Vegas public schools.
Community Response
The reaction across social media and the Las Vegas Valley has been overwhelmingly positive. Parents, coaches, alumni, and even current NFL players took to X (formerly Twitter) to praise Long for “giving back with his whole heart.”
“This will change everything for Las Vegas football,” tweeted a local coach. “Kids will now have the gear, space, and support they’ve always dreamed of.”
Looking Ahead
Long ended the press event with a powerful message:
“This isn’t just about football. This is about opportunity. And it starts right here on these fields.”
With this historic donation, Howie Long isn’t just rewriting the narrative for high school football in Clark County—he’s redefining what it means to be a champion long after the final whistle.
