They took a special interest in my life and development. Bo and Chris were two of the greatest athletes in Auburn history. What meant more to me was they were even greater off the playing field. They never lost track of me and what I was doing during my high school years. Even when they both were in the NFL, they still took time to make sure I was doing what was right either through their families or mine. Chris always called my great-great grandmother to check on my progress.
Those two guys really gave me the vision that I have now with my foundation. They never thought they were too big to offer their time in the community. Even though many years have past, Chris and I still keep in touch with one another. ; The words are very true that you never get too old to receive advise. As I grew older and continued with my playing days in college, I was introduced to yet another individual that has meant a lot to me and my life. Kerry Goode has been so supportive in my and what I have accomplished over the years.
I remember meeting Kerry soon after he retired from the NFL and returned to the Birmingham area. He was a vital part in my drive to be successful whether it was in the classroom or on the football field. As Kerry returned to the NFL as a coach for the New York Giants and the St. Louis Rams, he kept close tabs on me and my progress as a student athlete. Kerry and the rest of the Goode family has been like family to me. Whether it is making trips to Town Creek, Alabama to participate in their annual football camps or having them come out to help me with my events, the Goode family has been that strong backbone for my success. ; Kerry Goode, Bo Jackson, and Chris Woods opened the door for my visions and dreams. They always reminded me that it is not where you come from, but what impression you leave on your community when you return.
The vision for the children in
Alabama and surrounding Southeastern United States is to dream big and set high goals. By accomplishing these goals, kids of today will have the opportunity to give to those that follow in their footsteps.
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