    The Legislature finds and declares:

   a.   The first intercollegiate game of football, in the distinctively American sense of the term, was played in this State, at New Brunswick, in the year 1869, between Rutgers College and the College of New Jersey (Princeton).

   b.   The subsequent development of this sport, with its widespread popularity and its pervasive influence upon the values and ethos of the American people, has had a profound impact upon the life and culture of this country.

   c.   It is fitting that the event of 1869 which renders New Jersey the birthplace of American football be commemorated through the erection of some suitable memorial; firstly, for the inherent importance of the event, and secondly, so that this State's historic role receives appropriate public and durable recognition, together with any incidental benefits that may accrue to the State through the augmentation of tourism encouraged by this form of memorial.

   d.   While it is appropriate that organs of State Government provide organizational and administrative direction and support for this project, it is feasible and desirable that private organizations, firms and citizens provide the means of carrying it out.

   L. 1986, c. 111, s. 1, eff. Sept. 23, 1986.

Last modified: October 22, 2006