Vince Young inspires cancer patient

Current Philadelphia Eagles and former Tennessee Titans quarterback Vince Young has made some mistakes in his NFL career. He had very public spats with former coach Jeff Fisher. Off-the-field issues contributed to Young's unceremonious ouster from Tennessee. And yes, he was the one who first called this year's version of the Philadelphia Eagles the "Dream Team." That being said, it's tough to question Young's heart where children are concerned. He became a surrogate father to the late Steve McNair's sons after the former quarterback's untimely death in 2009. Young also paid a visit to a young man named Archie Taylor in 2006.

Taylor was diagnosed with lymphoma at age 12. Word got back to Young that he was Taylor's favorite player and he decided to stop by to lift the boy's spirits. Young presented Taylor with the jersey that Tennessee presented him with on draft day. Sure, professional athletes visit sick kids everyday. Vince Young isn't any more special in that regard than thousands of other players. What makes this story special is how Archie Taylor used Young's visit. As a matter of fact, I'll stop rambling and let the young man tell you himself. Watch the KRIV-TV story below (email subscribers click here).

Archie Taylor Jr. 'A Walking Miracle': MyFoxHOUSTON.com

This is the type of effect we want to have on kids as parents and coaches. We need to inspire our kids to progress beyond their situation. In Taylor's case, he had to fight cancer. Maybe the kids in your league are fighting poverty, poor grades, or the ever-debilitating apathy. If you haven't already done so, make sure you register for the St. Louis Youth Sports Summit on January 14, 2012 at Maryville University. Sessions on Coaching leadership and Sports Parenting will be held to help you help your kids reach their limitless potential. Go to sportsmanship.org to RSVP for this free event. By the way, Hempstead (Texas) didn't win the state championship, but Archie Taylor has won an even greater battle. One could even credit Vince Young with helping him get on a "Dream Team" of his own - The Survivors. Until next time...

Be a Good Sport!

-Sol

Related link(s): Play It Forward - stlsportsmanship.blogspot.com
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