The Potential Positive Influence Pro Sports Can Have On Our Children

As an educator, I have seen a wide variety of things. I have heard some amazing stories and seen some tragic situations. 

Recently, my classroom had the privilege to welcome Fred Bennett of the Houston Texans into our doors. It was a surprise visit.  He had a relative in my classroom, and he was visiting him to spend some time with him. 

As a South Carolina graduate, I recognized him right away, as I have been following his career closely, along with any other players that graduate from my university.  It took a moment for my students to figure out who he was.

When they did... my classroom erupted. 

This is one of those situations where I let it go.  Many of my students do not believe in themselves.  Many of them have already come to terms with the idea that they are going to prison or working for minimum wage. 

I have tried to show them otherwise, and some have made great strides in not only their education, but their personal view of themselves. 

Then Fred Bennett provided a breakthrough.

Here comes a man from the area, who went through the same schools, who worked hard to follow his dream, and follow them through.  Many of you can say that he is just a football player, but to the students he was so much more.

He spoke with them. Looked them in the eyes. Treated them with respect. Shook hands and gave autographs. The students loved every moment of this, and I could tell Mr. Bennett was MORE than happy to share moments with these children.

In a world where the economy is hard and education is becoming less important in the eyes of many, it was wonderful to see a man who has it all come to spend time with these children. 

I know for a fact that they will never forget it, and the positive impact he made on the students will forever be ingrained. 

Children view proffessional athletes as icons.  Which is why it makes me sick when I see stories about A-Rod, T.O., Jay Cutler, Donte Stallworth, and Mike Vick on ESPN every day. 

These people have to realize the amazing gift they have been given... and I am not talking about athleticism.

They have the power to change the way people view themselves.  In every player, we should see the things that we want to be.  Hard working, humble, and thankful for the chance to do something they love. 

Fred Bennett does not have the same name recognition as a T.O. or a Cutler, but he will always be one of the players MY STUDENTS follow. 

Hearing my students say "I am going to go to college one day" after he stopped by makes him a great NFL player in my book.