"Woman Reunites Iconic QB Doug Flutie With Long-Lost Memento After 32 Years"
Legendary QB Doug Flutie Reunited With Lost 1985 Cotton Bowl Jacket After 32 Years
By Oliver Salt, US Assistant Sports Editor | Updated: 02:32 BST, 31 August 2025
New England native Pat McCarthy stunned former Boston College quarterback Doug Flutie last week by returning his long-lost 1985 Cotton Bowl jacket—32 years after her son accidentally took it home from a college party. The emotional reunion occurred at "Doug Flutie Night," a charity event for his foundation hosted by the Brockton Rox baseball team in Massachusetts.
A Surprise Reunion
Flutie, the 1984 Heisman Trophy winner, was left speechless when McCarthy presented him with the maroon jacket. “Oh my goodness! Are you kidding me?” he exclaimed before embracing her. The iconic garment had disappeared decades ago, and Flutie believed only a handful were ever made. “My father-in-law and father had one, but stuff disappeared over the years,” he admitted.
Flutie’s stunned reaction to the unexpected return of his jacket.
How the Jacket Was Found
McCarthy’s son brought the jacket home from a Tufts University party in 1993. Recognizing its significance, she vowed to return it directly to Flutie. “I wanted to make sure he got it,” she said. Her chance finally came when Flutie attended the Brockton event. Armed with the jacket stored safely in a protective case, McCarthy and her grandson made the trip to Campanelli Stadium.
The 1985 Cotton Bowl marked a career highlight for Flutie, who led Boston College to a 45-28 win over Houston. The victory capped a legendary college career that included his famous “Hail Flutie” pass—a last-second touchdown throw to defeat Miami in 1984, securing his Heisman Trophy.
The jacket commemorates Flutie’s Cotton Bowl victory with Boston College.
Flutie’s Enduring Legacy
After college, Flutie played 12 NFL seasons with teams like the Chicago Bears, New England Patriots, and Buffalo Bills. Despite his professional success, his college achievements remain unforgettable. McCarthy initially thought the jacket celebrated his Heisman win but later learned its true significance.
The heartwarming story underscores the deep connection between Flutie and New England fans. “This is incredible,” Flutie said, visibly moved. “It’s like getting a piece of my history back.”
Flutie’s 1984 Heisman Trophy season cemented his football legend status.
For McCarthy, the moment was decades in the making. “When I saw he’d be here, I knew it was our chance,” she said. Her perseverance and Flutie’s gratitude reminded fans why he remains a beloved sports icon—both for his arm and his heart.
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Key elements preserved: Emotional reunion, jacket’s history, Flutie’s career highlights, and images with captions.
