| An elementary student who first showed an | | | | fixed on Michael Vick's participation with the |
| interest in baseball and basketball, Michael Vick | | | | Virginia Tech Hokies. In 2001, however, he |
| later developed his love of football. Born in June | | | | decided to pursue his dream of professional |
| 1980, this Newport News, Virginia native is now | | | | football and set his sites on the NFL as Virginia |
| the quarterback for the NFL's Atlanta Falcons. | | | | Tech retired his jersey. |
| In his early teens, Vick became involved in football | | | | In a strange twist of fate, Michael Vick found |
| as his choice after-school activity. At that time, he | | | | himself as part of the 2000 Major League Baseball |
| seemingly gave up all other sports in order to | | | | draft when the Colorado Rockies selected him for |
| concentrate on football. Through high school, his | | | | their team. A game that he had once given up |
| love of football flourished and carried over into his | | | | during his teen years now seemed like a probable |
| college years. Attending Virginia Teach, Michael | | | | route for the college athlete. However, Vick had |
| Vick gained instant stardom as a collegiate player | | | | other plans in mind. In 2001, the Atlanta Falcons |
| with 3 rushing touchdowns during his first game. | | | | selected the youngster for their number one NFL |
| With the help of Vick, the Virginia Tech Hokies | | | | draft pick. Despite several injuries, Michael Vick led |
| enjoyed a phenomenal 11-0 season and secured a | | | | the Falcons to a record 11-5 season in 2004 and |
| seat at the 2000 Bowl Championship Series. Even | | | | has led the NFL franchise to be one of most |
| though they were defeated by Florida, Michael | | | | competitive teams in the league. |
| Vick led the team to an impressive comeback | | | | As quarterback, Michael Vick's memorabilia and his |
| after being 21 points down at one point. | | | | replica jerseys have become one of the |
| During Michael Vick's inaugural collegiate season, he | | | | bestsellers for the NFL. The apparel and |
| led the NCAA in passing efficiency, which earned | | | | collectibles industry remains one of the largest |
| him a record setting year for a freshman. | | | | revenue producing sectors of any sport, including |
| Additionally, he was awarded the ESPY award as | | | | the NFL. As fans flock to find their favorite gear, |
| the nation's top college player, the inaugural Archie | | | | many seem to be lining up for anything pertaining |
| Griffin Award and was voted third in the 1999 | | | | to Michael Vick and his tremendous contribution to |
| Heisman Trophy candidates. With all of the | | | | the Atlanta Falcons and the National Football |
| awards and recognition, all eyes quickly became | | | | League. |