The George McAfee Award of a $2500 scholarship is presented annually to the top high school football player in Durham. The Award helps commemorate the incredible accomplishments of Duke University and Chicago Bears standout, George McAffee.
George McAfee played football at Duke University from 1937-1939. During his 3 seasons, the team compile a record of 24-4-1. In his senior year, McAfee led the team in rushing, receiving, scoring, kickoff returns, punt returns, interceptions and punting, leading to All-American honors from the major press organizations. The Chicago Bears picked George in the first round of the 1940 draft.
With the Bears, he earned the nickname “One-Play-McAfee,” as he was a threat to score at any time on the field, leading to All-Pro honors in 1941. He also led the Bears to NFL Championships in 1940, 1941, and 1946, Following his all-Pro season, McAfee entered the U.S. Navy in World War II. He returned to the Bears for the 1945 through 1950 seasons. His jersey #5 was retired by Chicago in 1955. He still holds the NFL Career Punt Return record with a 12.8-yard average. McAfee was inducted into the College Football Hall of Fame in 1961, the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1966, the North Carolina Sports Hall of Fame in 1967, and the Duke Sports Hall of Fame in 1975 as a charter member. George McAfee was an esteemed member of the Durham Sports Club for many years prior to his passing in 2009.
The 2024 recipient of the George McAfee Award is Amareon Blue from Jordan High School. He is a standout student-athlete and a true role model both on and off the field at Jordan High School in Durham. As a four-year varsity starter on the football team, Amareon had an extraordinary football career filled with accolades and records, including being honored as a two-time DAC Conference Player of the Year and three-time Jordan High School Player of the Year. With over 6,000 career rushing yards, Amareon ranks among the top 20 career rushing leaders in North Carolina state history, and has scored more than 100 touchdowns in his astounding career.
Amareon’s leadership extends beyond his athletic achievements. Known for his dedication to teamwork and his supportive nature, he served as an inspiration to his peers, always eager to help teammates improve. Off the field, Amareon is deeply involved in giving back to his school and community, volunteering his time to make a positive impact.
Amareon will be playing college football at Eastern Michigan University in Ypsilanti, Michigan.
From left: Tommy Hunt, Durham Sports Club Program Chair, Ed Bryson, Durham Sports Club President, Amareon Blue, George McAfee Award Recipient, Antonio King, Jordan High School Head Football Coach, Guy Guidry, George McAfee Award Committee Chair