Former NFL Quarterback Don Majkowski Visits Depew High School
At Depew Union Free School District, the saying “Once a Wildcat, Always a Wildcat” can be heard almost daily, but this tradition has truly become a part of the Depew Schools culture.
Recently, 1982 alumnus Don Majkowski visited Depew High School and was greeted by former classmates, student athletes and school staff. After graduation, Mr. Majkowski played for the University of Virginia and went on to the NFL as a quarterback for the Green Bay Packers, Indianapolis Colts and Detroit Lions. He was inducted into the NFL Hall of Fame in 2005.
One way Depew High School has honored its school history is with a mural depicting athletic and other accomplishments. Majkowski came to see the mural, which pays homage to his NFL career and to sign some memorabilia for his fans at DHS.
“Seeing this mural is humbling. I am proud to represent DHS,” Majkowski said. He signed sports cards, footballs and a mini helmet.
Although Majkowski made football his career, he said an injury in his senior year meant he had more fun playing on the basketball team in his final year of high school.
“The best thing to come out of my time here at Depew was the really good friends from the basketball and football teams. I am still in touch with them when I come back to visit,” he said.
Majkowski offered current student athletes some words of advice.
“Success only happens one way – through hard work. I have a saying, ‘Grind now, shine later.’ Work as hard as you can now to achieve your dreams,” he said.
Superintendent Dr. Hank Stopinski said, “Depew has a rich history of accomplishments on and off the field. It was a great opportunity to meet a proud Wildcat alumnus who has such positive memories of the school and the community.”