New England Patriots defensive end Ty Warren is forgoing his $250,000 offseason workout bonus, he says, because no amount of money is worth having his kids see their father without a college degree.
A possible NFL lockout in 2011, which has him thinking more about life after his playing career, also is on his mind.
That's why as the Patriots opened their voluntary offseason program Monday, the 29-year-old Warren was home in Bryan, Texas, with his wife Kesha and their three kids, Brionna, Brielle and Bailey. To read full article, click title.
Some people would sit back especially in the current economy and say that he can afford to forgo that kind of money so he can go back to school and get his degree because he has already made millions. And I would say you are exactly right! But that’s not the point. In 2004, it was reported that 54 percent of NFL players had not earned a college degree. The national average graduation rate is 55 percent for Division 1-A football players according to the federal government.
For once it’s duly noted (I’m sure there are others) that a man of his status is stepping up and setting an example. He stressed taking his kids to school and being part of their education. More importantly, he talked about going back and finishing what he started in earning his college degree so his kids can see him walk across the stage. According to Warren, “I can sacrifice that bonus for that.” In the words of IJM, “I hear that, brother!”
I think other athletes need to take notice. Some throw away money for all the wrong reasons and here you have Ty Warren forgoing it for all the right ones.
On another note, I personally think the New England Patriots should donate Ty Warren’s bonus to help launch the iTooDream Foundation which is dedicated to fostering the lives of young men with aspirations of achieving higher education…wishful thinking, right?
Mr. iTooDream ... there are a million foundations and organizations out there that do good work. Just find one and jump on board ... no need to reinvent the wheel. Awesome story though ... more ball players need to follow this path! Look at Greg Anthony doing awesome commentary and then look @ Anthony Mason who can't do anything after basketball. A degree and education makes a difference.
ReplyDeleteI guess the one I create will be a million and one...lol
ReplyDeleteIn all seriousness, I wouldn't be in it for the competition with other orgs and foundations, but for outreach, services, and support, especially if it's going to help someone else.
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