DONNA –  Norm Evans, one of the Valley’s most accomplished athletes, was honored Thursday at Bennie LaPrade Stadium. A life-size, 6-foot-5-inch bronze statue of Evans was unveiled just outside the home side entrance. Clad in a Miami Dolphins jersey and flanked by two Super Bowl rings, Evans’ statue will welcome guests as a reminder of Donna’s past.

“It just overwhelmed me,” said Evans. “It brought tears to my eyes. So overwhelmed and blessed. They made me really appreciate my home roots here in Donna. I felt like one of the family again.”

The 1961 Donna graduate, who lives in Washington State, was excited to return to the RGV to reunite with some of his former teammates.

“Luz Pedraza and the Avila boys. So many of the guys. It’s been delightful to be here and see my teammates,” said Evans.

“He put Donna on the map,” said former Donna quarterback Luz Pedraza. “Throughout his playing career, he always kept his faith. Always working hard all the time because of what Coach Scott instilled in us when he coached us here in Donna.”

After today’s ceremony, the two-time Super Bowl champion Evans will forever be a part of Donna’s home field.

“It just doesn’t seem real to me,” said Evans. “It’s impossible. It’s so incredible. Such a blessing.”