E.M.S. RAMS
Football team turns heads at Huddle 2004 with mission of education and spiritual growth
Certainly there are youth football teams that make education a priority along with learning the skills of football.
However, not many teams have the word in their team name. The E.M.S. Rams, from Cleveland, Ohio, make sure education literally comes first as the E.M.S. in their name stands for "Education Measures Success."
When the Rams walked in the door at Huddle 2004, those in attendance knew they weren't typical conference attendees. The group clad in their team jerseys, included three adults and five young people (players and cheerleaders) who traveled from Cleveland for a chance to better themselves as coaches and players. The only group with players in attendance, they brought a real face to the topic of youth football that was to be discussed for two days.
The Rams took their place near the front of the 250-person audience as NFL Commissioner Paul Tagliabue addressed the state of football in America. They hoped to learn from the best in football, coming away with lessons to use on the practice field and in life. As it turned out, they taught others a few lessons. Most importantly, they were a positive example of what football can do for young people in a community. Each youngster listened intently and took notes. Some even brought along laptop computers.
Antoinne McKinney, a high school football player and president of the Rams' Youth Executive Board stood up and asked the panel for ideas to help high school athletes stay focused on their responsibilities in sports and athletics. Bob Gardner, Chief Operating Officer for the National Federation of State High School Associations commended him on his question and urged McKinney to do his very best on and off the field in high school.
Conference attendees soon started asking, "Who is that group? Where did you find them?" The answer: They found us. The NFL Network took notice as well, and interviewed the players and coaches as part of their Huddle 2004 coverage. On day 2, prior to sitting down for the luncheon, the group stood, held hands around their table, and said a quiet prayer before sitting down to eat. It was a subtle but powerful statement of these coaches and parents' commitment to their young people, and further evidence that football teaches respect and appreciation.
They also got the attention of USA Football Chairman Jack Kemp and Cincinnati Bengals coach Marvin Lewis, both of whom took time to speak with the group.
Going beyond their goal of keeping education at the forefront of the program, on the field the Rams have a "no cuts" policy, insuring that everyone that joins the teams is allowed to play. But the focus extends to social and spiritual development of the team, as well.
The team has one overriding principle that players must follow: "Attitude is everything. Don't talk about it. Be about it!"
If their attedance at Huddle 2004 is any indication, they are doing just that.
Reprinted by permission of USA Football.