Father’s Day: NFL dads reflect on fatherhood during a pandemic – Sports Illustrated
A Call for NFL Players to Embrace Fatherhood
Players are not just athletes; they are role models whose actions and values shape societal norms
Fans cheer at Arrowhead Stadium during the first half of an NFL football game between the Kansas City Chiefs and the Detroit Lions, Sept. 7, 2023, in Kansas City, Mo. The Kansas Legislature’s top leaders endorsed helping the Chiefs and professional baseball’s Kansas City Royals finance new stadiums in Kansas ahead of a special session set to convene Tuesday. The plan would authorize state bonds for stadium construction and pay them off with revenues from sports betting, the Kansas Lottery, and new tax dollars generated in and around the new venues. (AP Photo/Reed Hoffmann. File)
As we celebrate Father’s Day, we reflect on fathers’ devotion across America. Being a father to my children has been my most challenging coaching job, but it is also the greatest privilege. As a former head football coach, I hold another profound role dear: being a father figure to my players.
Football has taught me wonderful lessons in fatherhood. It’s about making tough decisions, experiencing loss and discouragement, and, most of all, making personal sacrifices for the team. I’ve coached countless players who grew up without a father in the home, and I aimed to build good players and also good fathers—fathers with the courage to embrace responsibility. My three rules: do the right thing, do the best you can, and always show people you care. More fulfilling than winning a national championship was seeing my players break the cycle of fatherlessness that plagues our country today.
In a recent speech, Kansas City Chiefs kicker Harrison Butker shared profound insights about the joys of parenthood and the importance of maintaining strong family values. His message was scrutinized and criticized by those taught to dismiss traditional family values. But, it resonated deeply with many who prioritize faith and family. Butker’s dedication to his family contrasts with the troubling trend of some players having multiple children with different women, perpetuating cycles of instability and fatherlessness. Yet the media never criticize these athletes for this reckless behavior.
Addressing the Crisis of Fatherlessness
The problem expands beyond pro football players. The U.S. Census Bureau reports that nearly 18 million children live without a father. The damage to a fatherless child is heartbreaking. Among youth, those from fatherless homes are two to three times more likely to be expelled or suspended from school, comprise 63% of youth suicides, and are four times more likely to live in poverty.
The NFL wields immense cultural influence, reaching millions of fans across the globe. Players are not just athletes; they are role models whose actions and values shape societal norms. The league has proudly promoted various social causes over the years. Now, it’s time to add fatherhood to this roster of causes, recognizing that strong fathers are crucial to children’s well-being and society’s fabric.
The NFL is uniquely positioned to drive a cultural shift and be a leader in addressing America’s fatherlessness crisis. By highlighting, rather than dismissing, stories like Butker’s and supporting initiatives that encourage responsible fatherhood, the league can inspire players and fans alike.
Jack Brewer, a former player I respect deeply, has dedicated his life to addressing the crisis of fatherlessness. His actions and words serve as a beacon, showing it’s possible to excel professionally while prioritizing family responsibilities. Jack’s work has inspired countless men to take an active role in their children’s lives, breaking cycles of fatherlessness and building stronger communities.
The NFL has the power to amplify this message and the messages of hundreds more players, fostering a culture of reverence and support for fatherhood.
This Father’s Day, let’s call on the NFL to take action. Imagine the impact of a league-wide campaign celebrating fatherhood, featuring players sharing their experiences and challenges as fathers. By celebrating and promoting the values of responsible fatherhood, the NFL can help shift societal norms and address some of the most pressing challenges facing our communities today.
The time for action is now. Fathers, coaches, mentors, and community leaders all have a role to play in nurturing the next generation. Life is 10% what happens to you and 90% how you respond to it. Let’s respond by stepping up and making a difference. The future of our children, and indeed our Nation, depends on it.
Lou Holtz is a legendary college football coach and chairman of the Center for 1776 at the America
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