http://www.philly.com/mld/dailynews/sports/7306016.htm Posted on Thu, Nov. 20, 2003 Kevin Mulligan | Rockets' Mobley does us proud We're kicking off a periodic feature here this week, "Philly Proud," spotlighting Our Town's prominent former schoolboy stars who continue to do their hometown, alma mater and community proud as exemplary role models to area youth. Our first honoree is Houston Rockets guard Cuttino "Cat" Mobley, a 1992 Cardinal Dougherty grad who was in town this week to face the 76ers. At a time when fellow Philly-area products Kobe Bryant and Eddie Griffin are making news for the wrong reasons, Mobley deserves headlines for all the positive things he does with his time and money, both here and in Houston. He is active with Rockets charities, community projects and the NBA's "Read to Achieve" program, and sponsors youth sports teams here. Cardinal Dougherty High remains at the top of his list when it comes to remembering those who helped steer him on the path to success. He donated new uniforms last year, including warmups. For the last three seasons, he has supplied Dougherty's teams with Nikes as part of his endorsement contract. He also has helped with school fund- raising at such functions as "Cards Soar at the Shore" and the annual appeal. Mobley's No. 12 jersey was retired by the school on "Cuttino Mobley Day," Jan. 14, 2002. "We're always trying in our daily work to get the kids to look beyond the present moment, and trying to reinforce positive role models, positive images," said Rev. Paul Kennedy, president of Cardinal Dougherty. "We're fortunate to have lots and lots of good, positive role images among our 40,000 graduates, starting with our teachers here who are Dougherty graduates, our parents and elementary teachers. And when we look to someone like Cuttino, we're proud to say, 'There's a great role model.' That's the kind of image I'd want our kids to live up to. Somebody like Cuttino." Mobley, the son of Donald and Jackie Mobley, also has spoken to Dougherty students about the value of work, determination and high goals. He's proof that it pays off. He attended prep school before going to the University of Rhode Island, where he graduated with a double major in communications and psychology. He has made everyone who knows him proud. Oh, one more little story, from Dougherty alumni director Mike Prendergast. "When [athletic director] Harry Camp fell while attempting to put up Cat's retired jersey in our gym and was home recovering, Cat called him about six times the first week, apologizing since Harry was hurt putting up his jersey," Prendergast said. "And he continued to ask if there was anything he could do for him." That's Cuttino. We're proud of ya, man. (Have a nominee for Philly Proud? E-mail or write me with specifics.)
This is one thing I've been impressed with since I moved to Philly. They really like to remember their locals who've gone on to big things -- especially in sports and music. I remember being confused when I moved here because I saw so many Eddie George jerseys. Couldn't figure out why an Eagles town had so many Titans fans -- then I found out that Eddie's from a Philly suburb.
