Aug 22, 2013

DENTON, Texas -

North Texas and NFL Hall of Famer Joe Greene was the featured speaker to the North Texas football team for its annual Champions Day - a tradition started by third-year head coach Dan McCarney.

Greene talked about the significance in taking pride in playing for the Mean Green and the necessary ingredients to make a championship team. He led North Texas to two Missouri Valley Conference championships in three years and later helped the Pittsburgh Steelers win four Super Bowl titles. Greene is also a member of the North Texas All-Century Football Team which will be honored in the season opener against Idaho Aug. 31.

The Champions Day tradition was started by McCarney as a way to have people who have achieved success in their respective fields motivate the team toward achieving its goals. Former Dallas Cowboys All-Pro wide receiver Drew Pearson spoke to the team in 2011 and New Orleans Saints Super Bowl Champion head coach Sean Payton addressed the team last year.

It is also an unexpected day off from practice for the team, which hasn't had a day off since fall camp began on Aug. 5. North Texas.