In college athletics, we don't often get the chance to peer back the curtains and understand the character of the men and women in the sports. We can make assumptions of character by on the field and off the field actions (and consequences), but rarely do we get to meet these 18-22 year old idols. They come to ISU. All are assigned a number. Some have their face covered by a helmet. After 4 short years, they leave to live another life.
I heard a few stories this week about the man under center: our captain Brock Purdy. For obvious reason, I am going to keep the individuals' identity anonymous. They told me that they knew Brock Purdy as a person and I asked "what was he like?" as an easy follow up. I expected "Oh, he's a good guy." or a "he's a typical jock". Instead I got a different answer.
"He is the reason I am alive. Brock Purdy saved my life."
'Brock Purdy saved mine, too' I sarcastically thought, but I asked "Really? How so? What happened?" They went on to tell me about how they were going through a very difficult time in their life. They were struggling with health issues as well as issues beyond their control. They wanted to end it all. Life was too hard living. Brock, who was already big-time, could have easily ignored them; they were not super close to each other. Brock sensed that the trouble and did his best to talk them off the ledge. He gave them reasons to live for. He put a new perspective on life. He checked in on them frequently and made sure they were ok. Brock saved their life.
There were more stories, but none as significant as that. I hope one day to shake his hand. I hope he is remembered not only for the plays, wins and records, but the man that he is and the character he shows. I am proud that Brock Purdy is a Cyclone.
I heard a few stories this week about the man under center: our captain Brock Purdy. For obvious reason, I am going to keep the individuals' identity anonymous. They told me that they knew Brock Purdy as a person and I asked "what was he like?" as an easy follow up. I expected "Oh, he's a good guy." or a "he's a typical jock". Instead I got a different answer.
"He is the reason I am alive. Brock Purdy saved my life."
'Brock Purdy saved mine, too' I sarcastically thought, but I asked "Really? How so? What happened?" They went on to tell me about how they were going through a very difficult time in their life. They were struggling with health issues as well as issues beyond their control. They wanted to end it all. Life was too hard living. Brock, who was already big-time, could have easily ignored them; they were not super close to each other. Brock sensed that the trouble and did his best to talk them off the ledge. He gave them reasons to live for. He put a new perspective on life. He checked in on them frequently and made sure they were ok. Brock saved their life.
There were more stories, but none as significant as that. I hope one day to shake his hand. I hope he is remembered not only for the plays, wins and records, but the man that he is and the character he shows. I am proud that Brock Purdy is a Cyclone.
