A Parent's Journey into Professional Athleticism

As if college recruiting wasn't bad enough. Wow! My son's 5-year college football career ended on "Black Friday." When I recognized the talent that he had in his youth, it was apparent he could go all the way. But his journey (and mine) has not been without its challenges. The first came, as he remembers, when his 3 olders brothers would never allow him to play with them. Secondly, he always played on mediocre teams, but he was always noticed. Thirdly, when he signed his Letter of Intent (with Ohio State), one week prior to reporting for training camp, they pulled his scholarship, without reason given, although I did get the scoop (there's politics in college sports - you'd better believe it). And two days after signing that same LOI, his father was hospitalized and passed away 3 weeks later, dying with lung cancer (not a smoker) without ever seeing him graduate. The Lord spare my life, I will not only see him graduate this coming May, but will enjoy the privilege of seeing him sign an NFL contract. What will be pleasing about these two events is that you could say - all odds were against him. But being a family rooted and grounded in faith we can truly say - What God Has For You IS For You!

Now, there's a whole other level of challenges; first being surrounded by "hound dog" agents (and by this I mean no disrespect). When at one point no one was calling, now everyone is calling. As a parent, even though my son is a 23-year-old adult, I've had to do my homework so as to educate him from a mother's perspective, while he continues to study for his degree and gleans information if he can from coaches who are only concerned about whether they will have a job next year. This involves making sure that those you are speaking to are certified, licensed sports agents. I've heard a lot of rhetoric, only to find out that the individuals we were speaking with were not NFL league certified agents.

The Word declares that in the multitude of counsel there is safety. Therefore, I have surrounded myself with people that have "been there and done that." How I thank God for the people he has brought into my life. While my son was playing at the high school level I made the vow that I would not allow his gift to be prostituted, and the same is true now (if I can help it)! As I see it, his athletic talent is his business! And like any business, you have to have a vision, a plan, and the right people around to help fulfill the vision. So at this point, the "home team" is interviewing agents to be our marketing representatives to the NFL and other ventures.

Google "Dennis Kennedy football" and you will see many articles which relate to his game. But if anyone here at BBS has been down this road please do share. I'll keep you posted as to our progress and will post pixs later. Do keep us in prayer as we take this journey.

From the Home Front!