Quarterback Matt Schaub proudly displays the Governor's Cup at the Texans TEAM luncheon.
The Houston Texans kicked off Texans Week Tuesday by hosting their fourth annual Texans TEAM Luncheon.
The event, which benefits the Houston Texans Foundation and its five primary charities, allowed loyal Texans fans to hear from the team's players, coaches and owner. It also gave all parties a chance to celebrate the Texans triumph over Dallas and toast the upcoming regular season.
"This goes toward charity and it's a fun team event, so I would never miss it," said raving Texans fan Robert Johnson.
Johnson and a packed banquet room grew even more excited when event emcee, Sportsradio's Marc Vandermeer, introduced the Texans players, led by quarterback Matt Schaub with the Governor's Cup in hand.
Schaub proudly displayed the trophy, which goes to the winner of the Texans-Cowboys showdown, before he and his teammates sat down at tables with Texans fans.
After lunch, Vandermeer introduced a handful of star players and peppered them with questions submitted by fans. Tackle Ephraim Salaam put on a comedic performance during his time on stage, prompting Vandermeer to ask his appearance fee.
When asked what it has been to be on the field with Schaub, the offensive tackle jokingly answered, "I know if I see him, something is very wrong."
Tight end Owen Daniels, running back Ahman Green, wide receiver Andre Johnson, linebacker DeMeco Ryans, cornerback Dunta Robinson, and Schaub also took turns at the podium, expressing their excitement for the upcoming season.
Texans founder Bob McNair lauded head coach Gary Kubiak and the organization for their fine work on and off the field.
"When I look at where we are, and I look at the organization we've got, and I look at our scouts and I look at our coaches, we really have first class people in all these positions," McNair. "And that's what it's all about."
Kubiak then praised the players and fans for bringing out their "A-game" in the 28-16 win over Dallas, reminding the crowd that the win was only a taste of what's to come this season.
Note: McNair also announced the establishment of a clemency program that allows fans to exchange any NFL jersey and receive a discount on a new jersey at the Go Texans store on the south side of Reliant Stadium. Fans have through Friday, Sept. 7 to take advantage of the discount.
