Video: Former NFL Linebacker Brings Life Lessons To Area Students

PONTOTOC, MISS. (WCBI) – Wherever he speaks, Steve Grant has a main message for young people.

“You’re not born a winner, you’re not born a loser, you’re born a chooser,” Grant said.

The Miami native was a linebacker for the Indianapolis Colts and Tampa Bay Buccaneers from 1992 to 1997. His NFL career, and a towering, six foot two presence, commands attention. He stressed the importance of dreaming big to Pontotoc Middle and High School students.

“One of the wisest men who ever lived said, where there’s no vision, where there’s no dreams, where there’s no imagination, the people perish,” he told his audience.

Grant was brought to area schools through the Fellowship of Christian Athletes, and Sportsworld, a non profit organization that sends professional athletes to schools nationwide, stressing the importance of morals, values, education and wise choices.

He is not shy about sharing the important role his Christian faith has played throughout his time in the NFL, and as a motivational speaker.

“I understand the laws, so when I go into public schools, I can’t make altar calls, or say , this is what you need to do but, the law of this land says I can tell my story and by law I’m entitled to do that,” Grant said.

Students appreciate Grant’s openness and honesty.

“I loved how he talked about his friends and how , if you showed me your friends, it will show you your future,” said McKinley Windham, a senior at PHS.

“When you’re in high school, it’s like, Oh I’m going to be here forever, and you’re not and you really need to start thinking about it now and making a plan for where you want to be in about five years, at least,” said PHS Senior Kara Galloway.

At the end of each assembly, students are given cards where they can commit to abstain from drugs, alcohol, or any other destructive behavior.

Grant will speak at all Pontotoc area schools over a three day period.

www.sportsworld.org

www.mississippifca.org