Tim Brown to Serve as 2026 Sports Marshal

The Shenandoah Apple Blossom Festival is proud to announce that Tim Brown, one of the most accomplished wide receivers in both collegiate and professional football history, has been named the Sports Marshal for the 2026 festival and is sponsored by Rubbermaid Commercial Products.

Widely regarded as one of the greatest to ever play the game, Brown rose to national prominence at University of Notre Dame, where his electrifying playmaking ability earned him the distinction of becoming the first wide receiver to win the Heisman Trophy in 1987.

Following his historic collegiate career, Brown was selected sixth overall in the 1988 NFL Draft by the Los Angeles Raiders. Over an extraordinary 16-season career with the Raiders, he became one of the league’s most prolific receivers, earning nine Pro Bowl selections and recording 1,094 career receptions, ranking fifth in NFL history. His remarkable contributions to the franchise earned him the nickname “Mr. Raider” and culminated in his induction into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2015.

Today, Brown continues to impact the game as a host on SiriusXM Radio’s NFL and college football programming. He resides in Dallas with his wife and four children.

Beyond the field, Brown is deeply committed to community service. He plays an active role in the “9-1-1 for Kids” program, helping educate children on emergency preparedness, and serves as an ambassador for the President’s Council on Physical Fitness on behalf of Reebok. A man of strong faith, Brown is also actively involved in his church and frequently speaks to groups about his beliefs.

“We are honored to welcome Tim Brown as our Sports Marshal,” said Festival President, Jeremy Luttrell. “Let’s not forget that Tim is no stranger to Winchester, VA and the Shenandoah Apple Blossom Festival. In 1988, Brown served as a sports guest after winning the Heisman Trophy in 1987, and prior to embarking on his illustrious NFL career. His incredible career, dedication to excellence, and commitment to giving back make him an outstanding representative of the values we celebrate during the Shenandoah Apple Blossom Festival.”

Tim will make appearances at several festival events including the Hang 10 Car Wash Firefighters’ Parade on Friday, May 1, 2026, at 6:00 pm. Brown will share an inspiring message at the Partlow Insurance Sports Breakfast in the Tolley Dental Zone at the James R. Wilkins, Jr. Athletic and Events Center on the campus of Shenandoah University on Saturday morning, May 2, 2026, at 9:00 am. Later in the day, Tim will greet fans as he rides in the Glofiber Grand Feature Parade which steps off at 1:30 pm.