How sports can change lives

Tunney Side of Sports

“InSideOut Coaching” is the title of a book by Joe Ehrmann subtitled, “How Sports Can Transform Lives.”

Ehrmann is a former NFL defensive lineman, selected 10th in the first round of the 1973 draft by the Baltimore Colts.

Ehrmann played 10 years in the NFL, after an All-American career at Syracuse University. In 1978 he was selected to play in the Pro Bowl.

However, 1978 was the same year that his brother Bill lost his fight with cancer. Strange how things happen in our lives that have greater impact than the honors we receive.

As a result, Ehrmann began to reassess his priorities, and spearheaded the construction of a Ronald McDonald House in Baltimore in memory of his brother. Ehrmann then became an ordained minister, and today continues his ministry, traveling throughout our country with a mission of transforming lives through sports.

With the unfortunate emphasis on winning at all costs confronting young athletes today, Joe’s message is a breath of fresh air.

His core philosophy is simple: build people from the inside out. Sure, you want to create winning teams, but not at the expense of damaging the person inside. When young athletes finish playing, what do they take with them to create successful lives off the field or court?

Former NFL coach Herm Edwards, who grew up in Monterey County emphasized the value of playing the game to win, yet with the utmost integrity and high moral standards. Edwards played for the Philadelphia Eagles during

the same era as Ehrmann, so he knows the kind of man Ehrmann is.

Transformational Coaches of Monterey County has invited Ehrmann to speak at 7 p.m. May 2 in the CSUMB gymnasium.

TCMC is a new alliance of coaches, parents and community members whose mission is supporting and inspiring adults to use the powerful platform of coaching to transform the lives of our youth. This event is free. However, funds are needed to support this important program. You can help with your donation to the Boys and Girls Club of Monterey County/TCMC — a 501c3.

Will you be a part of helping our youth become the best people they can be?

To contact Jim go to www.jimtunney.com or email him at jim@jimtunney.com.


About Jim Tunney Ed.D

Retired NFL referee Jim Tunney gives his unique view of sports and life every Monday in his column, The TunneySide of Sports
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