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MINNEAPOLIS (KMSP) - New Orleans Saints punter Thomas Morstead arrived at Children's Hospitals and Clinics of Minnesota on Friday to deliver a $221,143 check from his charity, What You Give Will Grow. Minnesota Vikings fans donated more than $200,000 to Morstead's charity as a gesture of respect for the punter's grit and sportsmanship in the NFC Divisional loss to the Vikings.
“This is from our foundation, but really from 6,000 Minnesotans from Skol Nation,” said Morstead.
Morstead was the first Saints player to come back out on to the field to defend the NFL-mandated point-after-touchdown attempt following Stefon Diggs' game-winning "Minneapolis Miracle" touchdown catch that eliminated the Saints and sent the Vikings to the NFC Championship. Morstead suffered torn cartilage on the right side of his ribs during the game, but continued playing.
Moved by the sportsmanship shown by Morstead, a Vikings fan encouraged others to donate to the punter's foundation. Overwhelmed by the support, Morstead announced the money would go to Children's Minnesota. He pledged to return to Minnesota during Super Bowl week to deliver the check in person.
Saints punter Thomas Morstead said he was truly touched by the outpouring of support.
“Something like this feels so impactful,” said Morstead. “It’s very humbling.”
Also there for the donation was Vikings cornerback and return specialist Marcus Sherels, who was the player Morstead tackled on the painful play. He helped give Super Bowl tickets to a young brain tumor survivor.
“[Morstead is] just a stand up guy... amazing person,” said Sherels.
For more information and to donate, click here.