Steve Emtman emerged as one of the most versatile and dominant athletes in Washington state history while at Cheney High School. A standout in multiple sports, he earned All-American honors in football, was an All-League selection in basketball, and captured two state championships in discus for track and field. On the football field, Steve earned All-State honors on both offense and defense during his senior season and was named Frontier Lineman of the Year.

Steve continued his athletic excellence at the University of Washington, where he became a two-time All-American and twice received Pac-10 Lineman of the Year honors. In 1991, he was named the Lombardi Award Winner, a Heisman Trophy finalist, and the Chevrolet National Defensive Player of the Year.

Following his collegiate success, Steve was selected first overall in the 1992 NFL Draft and played six seasons at the professional level. His contributions to football have been recognized with induction into both the University of Washington Hall of Fame and the National Football Foundation College Football Hall of Fame.