FOOTBALL : 49ers’ Bregel Gives Money to Hospital, USC and Old Neighborhood

Jeff Bregel spent five long years in the trenches at USC, preceded by four years of similar toil at Kennedy High. As a reward, Bregel, an All-American offensive lineman, was selected by the San Francisco 49ers in the second round of the National Football League draft in April.

Bregel, 23, signed a two-year contract worth a reported $550,000 on Monday.

Some guys might go out and blow a few grand on a fast car and a bit more currency on some not-so-fast food. Bregel, however, immediately announced his intention to distribute some of his new-found wealth to his old neighborhood.

For each 49er victory this season, Bregel will give $200 to the Shriners hospitals. He also said he would donate money to the scholarship fund at USC and is looking into the possibility of starting a fund for outstanding scholar-athletes at Kennedy.

“It sounds corny, but I think that I benefited from people for a long time,” Bregel said. “It’s time to give a little something back.”

Bregel, 6-4, 280, said his agent, Leigh Steinberg, encourages clients to contribute to their communities.

“Steinberg’s always been involved with charity,” Bregel said. “I think it’s a good concept. Hey, these are my roots. I’m just glad to be in a position to help.”