Arizona State University (ASU) unveiled a bronze statue of Pat Tillman at Sun Devil Stadium on August 30, 2017, honoring his legacy as both a football legend and a national hero. The statue stands 7½ feet tall and depicts Tillman in his ASU uniform, poised to sprint onto the field. It is strategically placed in front of the newly constructed Tillman Tunnel, which leads players onto the north end of Frank Kush Field. This location ensures that Tillman’s presence continues to inspire future generations of Sun Devil athletes.
Tillman’s journey began at ASU, where he played football from 1994 to 1997. Known for his academic prowess and athletic excellence, he led the Sun Devils to an undefeated regular season in 1997, culminating in a Rose Bowl appearance. Following college, Tillman was drafted by the Arizona Cardinals in the 1998 NFL Draft. However, in the wake of the September 11, 2001, terrorist attacks, he made the profound decision to leave his professional football career behind and enlist in the U.S. Army. He served as an Army Ranger and tragically lost his life in Afghanistan in 2004.
The statue was commissioned by ASU alumnus Arthur Pearce II, who was deeply moved by Tillman’s selflessness and dedication. Pearce, a third-generation Sun Devil, was inspired by head coach Todd Graham’s vision to honor Tillman’s legacy. The unveiling ceremony was attended by several hundred people, including Tillman’s family, former and current ASU players, and university officials. During the ceremony, Tillman’s brother, Kevin, spoke about Pat’s character, emphasizing that he focused on personal growth rather than fame or material success. Kevin remarked, “Pat spent his whole life trying to be the best person he could possibly be… It was, ‘How can I make myself a better person in all these different facets of my life?’”
Incorporating the statue into the team’s traditions, Coach Graham announced that players would touch the statue as they run onto the field, symbolizing their commitment to embodying Tillman’s values of passion, integrity, and selflessness. This practice aims to instill in the players the importance of striving for excellence both on and off the field.
The unveiling of the Pat Tillman statue serves as a poignant reminder of the profound impact one individual can have through courage, sacrifice, and dedication. It stands not only as a tribute to a remarkable athlete but also as an enduring symbol of the values that ASU strives to instill in its community.
