Reggie Bush Surrenders Heisman

After years of scandal and speculation surrounding his alleged acceptance of improper benefits during college, professional running back Reggie Bush has decided to give back his 2005 Heisman Trophy.

In a statement released Tuesday, Bush said, "One of the greatest honors of my life was winning the Heisman Trophy in 2005. For me, it was a dream come true. But I know that the Heisman is not mine alone. Far from it. I know that my victory was made possible by the discipline and hard work of my teammates, the steady guidance of my coaches, the inspiration of the fans, and the unconditional love of my family and friends. And I know that any young man fortunate enough to win the Heisman enters into a family of sorts. Each individual carries the legacy of the award and each one is entrusted with its good name. It is for these reasons that I have made the difficult decision to forfeit my title as Heisman winner of 2005."

Bush goes on to say, "For the rest of my days, I will continue to strive to demonstrate through my actions and words that I was deserving of the confidence placed in me by the Heisman Trophy Trust. I would like to begin in this effort by turning a negative situation into a positive one by working with the Trustees to establish an educational program which will assist student-athletes and their families avoid some of the mistakes that I made.

I am determined to view this event as an opportunity to help others and to advance the values and mission of the Heisman Trophy Trust." Bush's decision to return the trophy seems like a gracious way to end all the drama and debate that has surrounded not only him but also the NCAA and the Heisman Trophy Trust for years now. Bush is now the first person ever to return the Heisman Trophy. Heisman Trophy Trust President Bill Dockery said on Tuesday, "The Heisman Trophy Trust will issue a statement in due course. Until that time we have no further comment." (Sources: ESPN.com)

Would you like to own Reggie Bush memorabilia? Even though he has returned his Heisman Trophy, there is little argument that he was the best college football player of 2005. Former Heisman Trophy winner Johnny Rodgers put it best: "It doesn't matter if he gives it back. Everyone still knows Reggie Bush was the best player that year. Look at the runs. He was clearly the best player." Fortunately for Reggie Bush fans, Hollywood Collectibles carries an excellent collection of Reggie Bush signed collectibles, including autographed photos, signed jerseys, autographed helmets, and more. Each of these signed memorabilia items comes with a certificate of authenticity and would make not only a great addition to a football memorabilia collection but also a great gift for Reggie Bush fans.