Arkansas coach Bobby Petrino became one of the highest paid coaches in college football back in December when he signed a multiyear contract paying him $3.56 million annually.He’s now giving back to the state he calls home … handsomely.
On Friday, Petrino and his wife, Becky, announced that they would donate $250,000 to the Arkansas Children’s Hospital in Little Rock.
The No. 14-ranked Hogs play in Little Rock on Saturday against New Mexico.
Petrino and several of his players visited with patients at the hospital during the day on Friday.
“Becky and I chose to support Arkansas Children’s Hospital because we believe in the mission of this amazing institution,” Petrino said. “As parents, we know the importance of having such a facility here in our state.”
The gift will support construction of the hospital’s South Wing, set to open in July 2012. To celebrate the Petrinos’ gift, a family lounge and waiting area in the Cardiovascular Intensive Care Unit will be named in their honor.
Petrino also announced the creation of a golf tournament to benefit the hospital. The inaugural Bobby Petrino Charity Golf Classic will be held June 18, 2012, at The Country Club of Little Rock.
