Chicago Area Natives Daniels, Schofield Do Their Hometowns Proud In Super Bowl 50
CHICAGO (CBS) -- There were special celebrations in Naperville and Orland Park on Sunday to cheer on the Super Bowl champion Broncos, because of two players who have ties to the Chicago area.
Broncos right tackle Michael Schofield grew up in Orland Park and graduated from Carl Sandburg High School, and tight end Owen Daniels grew up in Naperville and graduated from Naperville Central High School.
Daniels reveled in the moment with his son and wife after the Broncos won Super Bowl 50 on Sunday. Born just seven months ago, it was Henry's first game watching his dad.
"Oh my gosh, this is unbelievable," Daniels said. "I played for everyone standing right here, including my little man, and to be able to get this done, with this team, I love everyone. It's been an unbelievable experience."
A former high school quarterback, Daniels became the first NFL player from Naperville to win a Super Bowl.
"I'll get up there, hope we get one of those … I gotta get a gold ball in my high school now," he said.
The moment was surreal for Schofield, surrounded by his family after the big win.
"I can't even describe how awesome this is right now," he said. "It's just the best feeling in the world. I've got my family out on the field celebrating. You can't beat this. You can't beat this."
Schofield's father, who's the acting fire chief in Orland Park, had a cheering section back home.
"This is awesome, awesome for my son," Mike Schofield said as he celebrated on the field at Levi's Stadium in Santa Clara, California. "I can't believe it. I'm hoarse."
There was a full house at Engine 1 of the Orland Fire Protection District as firefighters and Schofield's friends cheered on their pride and joy.
"I can't describe the pride," Orland Fire Protection District battalion chief Nick Cinquepalmi said. "I mean, we're just so happy for him and his family; and the family's a wonderful family, and we're very happy for them."
He and other firefighters and paramedics in Orland Park were looking forward to congratulating Schofield in person and giving him and his family a big welcome home.
The Panthers also had a player with Chicago area ties. East Chicago native Kawann Short plays defensive tackle for Carolina. Current members of the East Chicago Central High School football team said even though the Panthers lost, Short has been an inspiration to them.
