By Brandon HENSLEY

Mike Hull was never considered a Golden Boy growing up playing sports, but on Friday at his alma mater, he received a golden football for his career accomplishments in front of the Crescenta Valley High School student body.

Hull and the school were given a golden ball by the National Football League to commemorate the 50^th anniversary of the Super Bowl, which will be played in February. For the celebration, every high school that has alumni who went on to coach or play in a Super Bowl is being recognized by the NFL.

Friday was Hull’s special day, as he held the ball with current CV football players on the auditorium stage in two morning assemblies.

“When I was here, we didn’t even have a field. It was all dirt,” he said. “We were at struggling. But we fought through it, and now being here it’s a huge example of the wonderful programs available.”

Hull was part of the first graduating class at CV in 1963. His football teams did not see much success, but Hull’s reputation as a gritty, hard-working player earned him a spot at Glendale Community College, and  eventually  a chance to go to either the University of Oregon, or USC.

He chose the Trojans, where he fought for playing time in the backfield with heralded players such as OJ Simpson and Mike Garrett.

“Thanks be to God, I played,” Hull said. “And thanks to the Falcons for helping to build the character necessary to endure.”

Hull went on to the NFL and played with the Chicago Bears and Washington Redskins. He appeared in Super Bowl VII, where Washington lost to the Miami Dolphins. After the NFL, Hull earned his law degree from Georgetown University. He currently resides in San Clemente working for Coldwell Banker.

“Mr. Hull has done so much more than just play football,” said current Falcon football captain Ben Lizer. “His diverse assortment of skills and knowledge and passion makes Mr. Hull much more than a man. It makes him a Falcon.”

Hull’s slideshow included many photos of him spanning his CV days all the way to current photos with him and his family; wife Connie, daughter Michelle, and son Thomas. Several of the photos were accompanied with Hull’s favorite inspirational quotes about dedication and perseverance, which was his main message to the students.

“Everywhere you go, look for an opportunity to excel,” he said. Hull said it wasn’t talent that took him far in life; it was through sheer will.

“Nothing can replace determination, hard work and perseverance,” he said.

Hull attended the Falcons’ Homecoming game with the Muir Mustangs on Friday, where he had the honor of doing the pre-game coin toss.

For a more expansive story on Mike Hull’s day, check the Oct. 22 issue of the Crescenta Valley Weekly.

  Brandon Hensley, Dan HOLM, football, Michael Hull