Hometown Heroes Insert in 2011 Certified Football Honors NFL Good Guys, Teams

Through a new feel-good insert in the October release of 2011 Certified Football, Panini America will pay tribute to the countless charitable efforts of NFL teams and their superstar players.

The 34-card Hometown Heroes insert — featuring such headliners as Aaron Rodgers, Larry Fitzgerald and Drew Brees, to name three — includes compelling player photography on the front. But it’s the even-more-compelling card backs, which provide accounts of the tireless good works performed by the player or team depicted on the front, that really stand out.

Take, for example, this nugget from the back of Antonio Gates’ card:

“Come Christmas time, Chargers players venture out into the San Diego community to spread holiday cheer. For the past couple of seasons, Gates has organized and hosted the Shop with a Charger event, providing 50 homeless, neglected and abused children with a night of food, games and shopping sprees.”

Or this gem from the back of Fitzgerald’s card:

“Fitzgerald’s mom was extensively involved in charities while he was growing up. He is paying homage to her by following the example she set. Fitzgerald founded the Carol Fitzgerald Memorial Fund, which contributes to HIV/AIDS prevention and support, breast-cancer prevention and support and education.”

There are 32 equally impressive performances detailed throughout the set. You’ll be able to read about all of them when 2011 Certified Football releases in October. Until then, enjoy this exclusive sneak peek at 10 of the cards.