Maura Bledsoe is the wife of former NFL quarterback Drew Bledsoe, who made a significant impact as the New England Patriots’ franchise quarterback before Tom Brady’s rise to stardom. While Drew’s professional career has been widely discussed, Maura’s role as a supportive partner and entrepreneur has often remained in the background. This article explores Maura Bledsoe’s background, her life with Drew, her family, and their business ventures.
Early Life and Background
Maura Bledsoe, née Maura Healy, was born and raised in Beaverton, Oregon. She attended Beaverton High School, where she likely developed an interest in sports and athletics, something that would later influence her life with Drew and their family. Maura’s upbringing in the Pacific Northwest put her on a path that would intertwine with Drew’s journey, both in life and in business.
Meeting Drew Bledsoe
Maura and Drew’s story began long before Drew became the No. 1 overall pick in the 1993 NFL Draft. They met during Drew’s college years at Washington State University, where he played as the team’s star quarterback. Drew’s college football career was a standout one, as he led the Washington State Cougars to a 9-3 season in 1992, racking up impressive stats that would propel him into the NFL. Maura was with Drew during his rise to stardom, supporting him through the challenges of college football, and later, his transition to the NFL.
Marriage to Drew Bledsoe
In May 1996, Maura and Drew Bledsoe married, just three years after Drew began his NFL career with the New England Patriots. Their marriage came at a time when Drew was building his reputation as the franchise’s future. While the Patriots had yet to experience the dynasty they would later build with Tom Brady, Drew’s leadership was crucial in guiding the team through challenging seasons.
Throughout their marriage, Maura has remained a steadfast partner, supporting Drew in both his career and personal life. Their union has lasted for nearly three decades, and they share a deep connection that has been evident both on and off the field.
Family Life and Children
Drew and Maura Bledsoe have four children, all of whom have pursued athletic careers of their own. Their three sons—John, Stuart, and Henry—each played football at Summit High School in Oregon, where Drew has served as an assistant coach and offensive coordinator. John, the oldest, went on to play quarterback at the University of San Diego after walking on at Washington State, while Stuart and Henry also played key roles in their high school football team.
Their daughter, Healy, has made a name for herself as a three-sport athlete, excelling in lacrosse, basketball, and soccer at Summit High School. The Bledsoe children’s athletic talents seem to reflect the values of discipline, teamwork, and perseverance instilled by their parents. Drew and Maura’s support has been evident in their children’s academic and athletic pursuits.
The Bledsoes’ family life is centered on a strong foundation of love, respect, and a shared passion for sports. As a family, they have always maintained a close-knit bond, with Maura and Drew continuing to prioritize their children’s development, both in academics and athletics.
Business Ventures: The Bledsoe Family Wines
While most people know Drew Bledsoe for his football career, he and Maura have made a name for themselves in the world of wine. After retiring from the NFL in 2007, Drew turned his attention to a new venture that was close to his heart: wine-making.
Drew, who grew up in the state of Washington, had always felt a pull to return to his roots. He and Maura founded Bledsoe Family Wines, which is based in Walla Walla, Washington, a region known for its exceptional vineyards. The couple’s business was built on a shared love for the land and its potential for producing high-quality wines. The Bledsoes first made their mark with Doubleback, a vineyard and winery known for producing Cabernet Sauvignon.
The Bledsoes’ wine-making business began with a partnership with winemaker Josh McDaniels, and their first wine venture was named McQueen. The Bledsoes have expanded their wine offerings over the years, with several highly regarded products, including the 2022 Flying B Estate Red Wine, the 2021 Stolen Horse Syrah, and the 2022 Healy Rose, named after their daughter Healy. Their wines are crafted with care and passion, earning a reputation for quality and consistency in the industry.
For the Bledsoes, wine-making has become more than just a business; it is a way to reconnect with the land and their community. Drew has often spoken about how the journey from the NFL to wine-making has felt like a natural progression, with each venture being an opportunity to pursue his passions while remaining grounded in his roots.
Maura’s Role in the Business
While Drew’s name is most closely associated with the wine business, Maura plays an integral role in the operation of Bledsoe Family Wines. She shares the responsibilities of running the winery and managing the day-to-day operations alongside Drew. Maura’s background in supporting Drew throughout his career and raising their family has given her the skills to effectively navigate the challenges of entrepreneurship.
Maura’s contribution to the business extends beyond just the operational aspects. She is deeply involved in the branding and marketing of the winery, using her creativity and vision to promote Bledsoe Family Wines as a premier destination for wine lovers. The couple’s joint venture has been a resounding success, with their wines earning accolades and widespread recognition.
Personal Life and Public Appearances
Though Maura has always maintained a relatively low public profile compared to her husband, she has occasionally appeared with Drew at events and on social media. The couple celebrated their 28th wedding anniversary in May 2024, a milestone they both acknowledge with pride and gratitude. Their love and commitment to each other have remained strong throughout the years, and they continue to support each other in both personal and professional endeavors.
Drew and Maura’s public appearances are often tied to their business ventures, where they present Bledsoe Family Wines at wine tastings and events. The Bledsoes have found a balance between their personal life and their professional ventures, maintaining a successful marriage and family life while building a flourishing business together.
Net Worth and Success
As of 2024, Drew Bledsoe’s estimated net worth is approximately $50 million, a large portion of which has come from his post-NFL business ventures. Maura’s involvement in the family’s wine business has played a key role in their financial success. Bledsoe Family Wines has grown steadily over the years, with its wines being sold across the United States and internationally.
While Drew’s NFL career helped build the foundation for their wealth, it is the Bledsoes’ entrepreneurial spirit and dedication to quality that has allowed them to achieve continued success in the wine industry.
Conclusion
Maura Bledsoe is much more than the wife of a former NFL quarterback; she is an entrepreneur, a mother, and a supportive partner. Together with Drew, she has built a life that blends family, business, and personal fulfillment. Through their work in the wine industry, they have created a lasting legacy that extends beyond Drew’s football career. With 28 years of marriage and a successful business, Maura and Drew Bledsoe continue to thrive, proving that their partnership is just as strong off the field as it was on it.
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