WASHINGTON, Feb. 3, 2016 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The United States Hispanic Chamber of Commerce (USHCC) applauds National Football League (NFL) Head Coach Ron Rivera for leading the Carolina Panthers to the 50th Super Bowl, with a winning record of 17-1. The Carolina Panthers will be facing the Denver Broncos on Sunday, February 7.
Rivera has been coaching the Panthers for five years, as the third head coach of Hispanic descent in the NFL.
"Although Rivera is not the first Hispanic to coach in a Super Bowl, he remains a trailblazer," said USHCC President & CEO Javier Palomarez. "On Sunday night, millions of people across the country will watch Rivera coach the Carolina Panthers in the most highly-viewed football game of the year. While the USHCC is a nonpartisan organization in sports as well as politics, we are proud to recognize Rivera for his groundbreaking leadership."
"The USHCC congratulates Ron Rivera for leading the way for the Hispanic community within the sports industry," said USHCC Chair Raymond Arroyo. "Rivera's accomplishments are inspirational, demonstrating that Hispanics are breaking barriers in every industry, from the board room to the football field."
Rivera became the first player of Puerto Rican and Mexican descent to play in the NFL when he was drafted by the Chicago Bears in 1984. He played nine seasons with the Bears, and was part of the team that won a Super Bowl championship in 1985.
About the USHCC
The USHCC actively promotes the economic growth, development and interests of more than 4.1 million Hispanic-owned businesses, that combined, contribute over $661 billion to the American economy every year. It also advocates on behalf of 259 major American corporations and serves as the umbrella organization for more than 200 local chambers and business associations nationwide. For more information, visit www.ushcc.com.