An alumnus of the Long Beach Public Schools has been inducted into the third class of the New York State Public High School Athletic Association’s Nassau County High School Hall of Fame. Scottie Graham, Long Beach High School Class of 1987, is among only 31 individuals to earn this distinction as a result of his significant contributions to high school athletics in Nassau County.

During his Long Beach High School years, Graham was a three sport athlete participating on the lacrosse, wrestling and football teams. He achieved All-American status in all three. In addition to demonstrating dedication athletically, he never missed a single day in the classroom.

Graham was a three-year football starter and captain at The Ohio State University, and eventually went on to hold a successful career in the NFL during which he went seven seasons without fumbling the football. He joined the New York Jets in 1992, the Minnesota Vikings in 1993 and the Cincinnati Bengals in 1997.

Many of Graham’s professional highlights were accomplished while he played for the Vikings. He held the fourth-highest single-game rushing total of 305 yards in Vikings history, finished the 1993 campaign as the team’s leading rusher and was presented with the Ed Block Courage Award in 1996.

“We are so proud of Scottie,” said Long Beach Public Schools Director of Health, Physical Education and Athletics Arnold Epstein. “His commitment, sportsmanship and determination have led him to numerous successes that make him a positive role model and great example for our students.”

Currently a Senior Associate Athletics Director at Arizona State University, Graham enjoys spending time with his wife, Mary, and their two children. He will be formally recognized at an induction ceremony to be held on Sept. 27 at Crest Hollow Country Club in Woodbury.