49ers stars offer pick-me-up to graduates amid pandemic and protests

The 49ers offered up a dose of optimism Saturday for uncertain times.

Amid the COVID-19 pandemic, which required schools in California and throughout the country to close their doors, and the ongoing protests around the country against police brutality and racial discrimination, the 49ers put together a virtual graduation ceremony streamed on YouTube and other social media channels for students of all ages taking their next step.

The 30-minute video was highlighted by a commencement speech from longtime left tackle Joe Staley, who graduated from his 13-year playing career into retirement in March.

There were also cameos from Steve Young, Jerry Rice, John Lynch, Kyle Shanahan, George Kittle, Jimmy Garoppolo, Nick Bosa and others. Defensive end Dee Ford played the graduation classic, “Pomp and circumstance” on the piano. Country musician Tyler Rich played Green Day’s, “Good Riddance (time of your life).”

The 49ers included photos from about 2,000 graduates in the presentation. It had more than 81,000 views on Facebook as of 7 p.m.

Staley’s speech included jokes about rationing toilet paper and “actually” verbalizing gratitude towards parents. He finished with three key points: enjoy the moment, stick with it and get to know the people around you.

Said Staley: “Invest in people. Get to know their stories. Now more than ever, it’s important that we truly get to know people outside of social media, technology and the Internet. Talk to people, ask questions, don’t be afraid to ask someone you admire for advice.

“Everyone has a story and there is a lot we can learn from one another. I have made countless relationships throughout my football journey with people I may have never had a chance to meet if it were not for this game; special relationships that will be with me forever.”

This story was originally published May 30, 2020 at 6:09 PM.