Warren Moon: A Hall of Fame Heart in the Unbridled Family

The Unbridled family has some supporters whose commitment goes back even before the first Unbridled Eve Derby Gala, to the days when Tammy York Day and Tonya York were chairing the Julep Ball. Among those special individuals is NFL Hall of Famer Warren Moon, whose presence has always embodied what Unbridled stands for: generosity, community, and heartfelt celebration. 

Warren has been a cherished part of the Unbridled community from the very beginning. His commitment runs deeper than appearances. Year after year, Warren contributes incredible experiences to our Silent Auction, creating unforgettable moments for attendees and raising vital funds for our charitable initiatives. But his generosity is matched only by his legendary legacy on the field. 

A Trailblazer in the Pocket 

Warren Moon made history as the first African American quarterback inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2006. It was a moment that honored not only his talent but also the barriers he helped break. 

Before stepping into the NFL, Moon dominated the Canadian Football League (CFL), leading the Edmonton Eskimos to five consecutive Grey Cup championships (1978–1982). Once in the NFL, he redefined what it meant to be a franchise quarterback. Over 17 NFL seasons, Moon: 

  • Passed for 49,325 yards 
  • Threw 291 touchdown passes 
  • Was selected to the Pro Bowl 9 times 
  • Led the league in passing yards twice (1990 and 1991) 
  • Became the first undrafted quarterback to be enshrined in Canton 

Most famously, he led the Houston Oilers’ high-octane “Run and Shoot” offense, setting records and pushing boundaries for quarterbacks of the future. 

Brothers in Arms: Supporting the Next Generation 

Off the field, Warren continues to lead with purpose. He is a co-founder of Brothers in Arms, a Houston-based nonprofit established alongside fellow football legends Andre Ware and Vince Young. The initiative provides college scholarships to student-athletes from single-parent homes, reflecting the founders’ shared upbringing and commitment to giving back. 

Brothers in Arms focuses on helping high school seniors in the Greater Houston area who have demonstrated academic excellence, leadership, and community service. Through annual scholarships and events such as its celebrity golf tournament, the organization empowers the next generation with access to educational opportunities that might otherwise be out of reach. 

This work mirrors the values that make Warren so special to the Unbridled family: a belief in lifting others, investing in the future, and using your platform for good. 

Legacy in Motion 

Even in retirement, Warren remains a guiding force in football. He mentors rising stars like C.J. Stroud and Cam Ward, offering not just tactical advice but wisdom forged over years of perseverance and grace under pressure. His recent appearance at the Tennessee Titans’ draft ceremony, where he passed his iconic retired No. 1 jersey to the team’s new quarterback, was a powerful symbol of leadership and legacy — a true passing of the torch. 

Forever Unbridled 

At Unbridled, we’re honored to count Warren not just as a guest or supporter, but as family. His loyalty, warmth, and legendary smile are as much a part of Derby weekend as the hats and horses. He’s not just a football icon. He’s a philanthropist, a mentor, and a friend who shows up year after year with grace and generosity. 

Thank you, Warren, for always showing up, and for showing us what it means to lead with heart. 

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