All-Pro DB- Dwaon “Booze” Woodard Remembered

The Erie Express are sad to announce the passing of one of our former greats, Dwaon Woodard passed away March 25th with family and friends by his side.

Dwaon played 6 seasons for the Express with his final season being in  2018. That year, Dwaon played a major role in our first ever undefeated regular season, GDFL Xtreme East Division Championship and an appearance in the GDFL Xtreme Conference Finals.

During his six seasons in an Express uniform, Dwaon helped guide us to 5 playoff appearances, 2 conference finals appearances, a division title, the #1 ranked defense in the nation (2018), our first ever undefeated regular season (2018, 11-0) and was named All-Pro along the way.

Woodard is a graduate of Erie Central Tech High School. Dwaon played his college ball at Clarion University. At Clarion he was a four year starter and letterman, 3X Northeast All Region Football Team selection at DB and Return Specialist as well as First Team All-PSAC West. His career stats in college include 166 tackles, 26 pass break ups, 10 INT, 7 blocked FG, 3 fumble recoveries and 2 TD.

Dwaon played professionally for the Baltimore Ravens (NFL), Erie Riverrats (AIFA), Erie Storm (AIFA), Canton Cougars (UIFL) and the WPA Sting (UIFL). Dwaon was signed by the Ravens as an undrafted free agent and was on the practice squad for the first 6 weeks of the season before being released. 

In 2009 with the Riverrats in only 6 starts Dwaon led the team in interceptions with 6 returning 1 of them 47 yds for a TD as well as tackles with 49.5, 43 of which were solo, he also returned a KO for a TD. In 2011 with the Cougars, in 9 games Dwaon led the Cougars in interceptions with 7 returning 1 for a TD. Dwaon also recorded 29 tackles and 9 pass break ups.

The football accolades speak for themselves in terms of who he was on the field. But it is his impact off the field that will be remembered the most. 

Dwaon was a loving father and leaves behind six beautiful children and his fiance Meghan. His smile and presence would light up any room he walked into. He had an ability to befriend all and make everyone feel at ease with his amazing attitude and demeanor.

The amazing memories left behind will be cherished by all who knew you. Your smile, laughter and life energized all who came into contact with you. As a teammate you lifted the younger guys and led by example. Everything we could ask from a player, you were , and more.

So much of our team success is due to you and others like you who laid the foundation. We love you bro and will do our best to honor your legacy.

Moving forward our annual award to our top defensive back will be known as the "Dwaon Woodard Defensive Back of the Year" in remembrance of Dwaon. Dwaon's son Dariel will be the presenter of this award in 2025.

There will be a celebration of life benefit for Dwaon on Wednesday, April 2 from 5pm to 9pm at the American Legion 771. 260 E 3rd St, Erie, PA 16507. If you are able to stop in that would be greatly appreciated.

Dwaon's service will begin at 11 April 4th at First Good Samaritan A.M.E. Zion Church. 3209 Pennsylvania Ave, Erie, PA 16504

A go fund me has been set up to help offset unforeseen expenses. If you are in a position to help please do so in any amount you feel comfortable with. 

https://www.gofundme.com/f/help-dwaons-family-through-this-tragic-loss

Please keep Dwaon's family and friends in your thoughts and prayers as they deal with this sudden tragic loss. Thank you all in advance!

Until we see you again, rest well brother!