Christian school retires NFL star Christian McCaffrey’s jersey in ceremony

NFL star running back Christian McCaffrey’s number has been officially retired by his Colorado Christian high school, which honored him for his faith and excellence on and off the field.

At an emotional April 4 ceremony attended by McCaffrey and his wife, model and influencer Olivia Culpo, Valor Christian High School in Highlands Ranch made it official that there will never be another No. 5 to don its football jersey.

The event “was an emotional honor for me,” McCaffrey posted on Instagram. “This jersey represents all of the people who shaped me into the person I am today. I carry you with me in all that I do.”

His wife, a former Miss Universe who is expecting the couple’s first child, was effusive in her praise. 

“Watching Christian’s high school jersey get retired was a powerful, full-circle moment – one that reminded me of all the grit, sacrifice, and discipline he’s poured into this game from the very beginning,” Culpo posted on Instagram. “I’ve seen you give every morsel of yourself to your craft – not for accolades, but because excellence matters to you. You’re the hardest worker I know, not just because of what you do on the field, but because of who you are: a selfless teammate and a relentless pursuer of growth. I love you so much and I couldn’t be prouder of you, and I’m so thankful to see you honored in a way that reflects every bit of heart and integrity you carry.” 

McCaffrey’s parents, Lisa and Ed, who was also an NFL standout and three-time Super Bowl champion, attended the ceremony.

Head football coach Mike Sanford told local 9 News it was a “star-struck moment for the student body,” one that “everyone at Valor will never forget. 

“It was great for me as the new head football coach at Valor to point to a great example, to praise the model in terms of this is somebody who conducts themselves in a first-class manner in every single way possible,” said Sanford, who had recruited McCaffrey 11 years earlier to play at Stanford University. 

The San Francisco 49ers running back had an unforgettable career at the Christian school, leading the team to multiple state championships, winning Gatorade Player of the Year in 2012 and 2013, and setting Colorado high school records including career touchdowns (141), career touchdown receptions (47), season all-purpose yards (3,032) and career all-purpose yards (8,845).  

His NFL career has been no less dynamic, including two-time All-Pro honors and winning AP Offensive Player of the Year. He is reportedly healthy for the upcoming season after suffering a season-ending knee injury last year. 

Valor has won eight state championships in its 18-year history of playing football.  

During an interview after the event, McCaffrey said high school was “probably the most pivotal time in my life,” and that the school surrounded him with people who inspired and “shaped me in a million different positive ways.” 

Sanford, a former college coach, will partner with the school’s belief that sports are “an act of worship” and student-athletes are being trained to “use their skills and gifts to glorify” God.  

“I have always loved what Valor has stood for as a decidedly Christian institution preparing leaders to transform the world for Christ while aiming for excellence in all endeavors,” he said upon taking the job in February.  

“Valor Christian is excellent in all areas both regionally and nationally, and my goal for the football program is to achieve success at the highest levels both in the state of Colorado and nationally.” 

Photos: Valor Christian High School (via Facebook)