Hallowed Halls

Each summer thousands of football enthusiasts make the trek to the birthplace of football Canton, Ohio which is also home to the game’s Hall of Fame.  I wouldn’t consider myself diehard or one who is enthralled by the achievements of individuals nor looking at the busts of pigskin greatness for that matter. However, having watched past inductions on network television I was moved to some level of grandeur by those who enter this place with humility while giving gratitude to almighty God. This year was no exception and I was on hand to witness it.

The Pro Football Hall of Fame added six new members to the Class of 2012. Pittsburgh Steeler’s Dermontti Dawson and Jack Butler, Minnesota Viking Chris Doleman, Seattle Seahawk Cortez Kennedy, New Orleans Saint Willie Roaf and NY Jet Curtis Martin. Six men who deserved to be amongst the game’s greatest.

Jack Butler never played high school football until he went to St. Bonaventure where the game became a passion of his. He seriously considered becoming a Catholic priest and even spent time in the seminary. After a stellar college career he joined the Steelers and over 9 seasons was one of the games most effective cornerbacks and a member of the 1950’s All-Decade team. Jack in his speech talked mostly about his family and many grandchildren. He thanked God for all his blessings and didn’t talk once about his accomplishments or legacy. Humility graces this man and the life he leads.

Dermontti Dawson a great offensive lineman and member of the NFL’s All Decade team of the 1990’s is a devout Christian. He started off his induction speech saying “ First”, after the applause lessened “A shout to my Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.”  He thanked his parents for giving him life. At one point he turned to his children and said “I am so pleased God chose me as your dad.”

Dawson took time to remember his teammate and one of football’s greatest lineman Hall of Famer Mike Webster, who had troubled years before his passing in 2002. You knew a piece of Mike was with Dermontti during this speech as they become brothers throughout their playing days in the Steel City.

Curtis Martin was the last induction speech and it set a new bar because of the brutal honesty he displayed in revealing a life of deep pain which he overcame with fortitude, forgiveness, and prayer. I will not write on his speech you have to hear it for yourself to appreciate the transparency and transformation. CLICK HERE TO VIEW

My time spent in Canton was much more than admiring the talents of these past giants of the gridiron it revealed men of deep faith who just so happen to be the greatest to ever play on a given Sunday.