Ditka, Kramer crusade draws Upshaw ire

CHICAGO, March 9 (UPI) -- Mike Ditka and Jerry Kramer pressed their crusade for disabled NFL retirees with charges drawing the anger of player's union head Gene Upshaw.

In a news conference at his Chicago restaurant, Ditka, the former player and coach, and ex-player Kramer repeated charges that NFL owners and players association chief Upshaw were not doing nearly enough for former players in dire need, the Chicago Tribune said.

They have been raising money for the cause with an on-line memorabilia auction and other events. Ditka presented his 1975 NFC championship ring earned with Dallas to Mike Sporelli, a fan from Los Angeles, who paid $12,000 for it in the auction.

Upshaw accused Ditka and Kramer of being confused about the facts and pointed out the new NFL agreement raised benefits, including coverage for dementia and Alzheimer's disease, with almost all improvements directed at former players.