BPL to Host “Score Big” with Pittsburgh Steelers’ Wide Receiver Jerricho Cotchery

The Birmingham Public Library is excited to once again host its “Score Big” with the Cotchery Foundation as part of its “Own the Night” teen summer reading initiative. Jerricho Cotchery of the Pittsburgh Steelers, and one of Birmingham’s native sons, has teamed himself and his foundation with the Library for this exciting reading challenge.

Cotchery founded The Cotchery Foundation in January 2007. He was moved to start the foundation as a result of his own personal memories and experiences growing up. He and his foundation have set out to “show that anyone can do extraordinary things if they have the desire and passion.” Simply stated, Cotchery has made it his mission to show that any individual can make a significant difference in the lives of others.

For the past five years, The Cotchery Foundation has hosted a Skills and Drills Football Clinic with Jerricho Cotchery. In 2009, The Foundation asked the Birmingham Public Library to join them to enrich the experience. In order to register for the 2012 Skills and Drills Football Clinic, youth from 11-18 must be an active participant in the “Score Big”component of the “Own the Night” summer reading program. Seven points are necessary to qualify. Youth may score points by registering for the program (1point), reading an entire magazine (3 points), and reading an entire book (6 points). “Score Big” registration forms are available at all Birmingham Public Library locations. The completed registration forms are due by June 4, 2012. At least two hundred participants will be selected to attend the 2012 Skills and Drills Football Clinic. Those selected will be notified by June 11, 2012.

In addition to being eligible for the Skills and Drills Football Clinic, all those who “Score Big” are invited to a FREE "Club89" Teen Tailgate Party at Birmingham Public Library on June 22. 2012. The celebration will take place on the first floor of the Central Library, located at 2100 Park Place, from 6:30p.m. until 8:30 p.m. There will be music,dancing, photo-ops with Jerricho, food, and lots of fun.

Registration for “Score Big” with the Cotchery Foundation begins May 1, 2012. Visit any Birmingham Public Library location for registration materials and additional information.