J.J. Watt spoke a few words after winning the Walter Payton Man of the Year award, and they’re worth listening too.
Watt, who raised millions for the hurricane relief efforts in Houston, eloquently explained how what really matters aren’t accomplishments on the field.
It’s what he does off the field that should matter. He stated in part, “At the end of my life if I’m remembered as a football player, and a good football player, and that’s all I’m remembered for, then I did a poor job in my life.”
J.J. Watt on using his NFL platform to give back: “If I’m remembered as a football player, and a good football player…and that’s all I’m remembered for, then I did a poor job in my life.” #WPMOY pic.twitter.com/152LD61uEa
— Daniel Gotera (@DTGoteraKHOU) February 4, 2018
I’ve always argued this point, and I said pretty much the exact same thing to a packed gym after winning a state championship in basketball. Sports are fun and they’re important. However, we can’t let accomplishments on the field or basketball court become the only things that define athletes.
It’d be a real shame if in 50 years the major thing Watt is remembered for is his defense prowess on the field. He’s an outstanding player, but he’s an even better person. There are countless people in Houston who have been positively impacted by his actions. That’s way more important and impressive than anything that’s done on the field.
Watt just proved once again why he’s one of the coolest guys in pro sports. We need more guys like him.