On the TunneySide of Sports September 23, 2019, #762 A Tribute to Andrew Luck
After further review… Andrew Luck, formerly #12 of the Indianapolis Colts made a surprise announcement at a preseason game on August 24, 2019. He decided to retire from his job as the Colts’ quarterback immediately. I fully understood his decision.
In 2015 the Jim Tunney Youth Foundation held a Sportsnight on the Monterey Peninsula to raise funds for youth programs on this peninsula that develop leadership, work skills, wellness, and self-esteem in our young. The foundation was founded in 1993 and regularly held Sportnights that featured sports celebrities who gave of their time and talents to speak to the attendees and sign autographs — all without compensation. Former 49ers Quarterback Joe Montana was the first; followed by Herm Edwards, Ronnie Lott, Steve Young and in 2015 Andrew Luck.
It was a simple phone call to his dad, Oliver Luck, a former Houston Oilers quarterback (1982-86) that connected us to Andrew’s agent which put him in front of an audience of 400-plus, mostly young people. With appropriate introductions, an auction of Colts helmets, #12 Colts jerseys and NFL footballs, our M/C began a Q & A with Andrew. Then Andrew asked is he could walk among the audience and answer questions – only from kids.
Andrew mentioned he had just visited his (Stanford) college professor in architectural design (his college major) to learn nuances in that field. “You see, Andrew said to those young people, I’m 23, I have played three years in the NFL and have no idea how long I can play. So, education for my future is important.” Not only did that point hit-home with the youth, but the adult audience also took note as well. This is the Andrew Luck that I know and that you saw when he announced his retirement. Only the player himself can decide how long he should play.
Those few selfish fans, who were booing his decision, cared more about winning than about Luck’s health. Many who have commented about that retirement-decision didn’t understand. Knowing him personally, I appreciated his decision. He didn’t start a trend, he joined one.
Will you comment on the decision by Andrew Luck?
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If you were unable to attend the book signing at River House Book Store recently ”Yet Another 101 Best of TunneySide of Sports” is available there for $20 or by sending a check to Jim Tunney Youth Foundation (501c3) P.O Box 1440 Pebble Beach, Ca. 93953 includes personalized autograph and free shipping.
This offer is available to the continental United States only.
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To contact Jim, go to JimTunney.com or email Jim@JimTunney.com. Jim’s books are full of inspiration and interesting stories. Please visit his online store to learn more. Be sure to get Jim’s book ‘Another 101 Best of TunneySide of Sports’ by clicking this link or using the email above to contact Jim directly. These TunneySides take issues from real-life situations and relate them as inspiration for the betterment of others. Jim is available for speaking engagements on leadership and T*E*A*M Building. His books are available for $20 which includes shipping and tax. The Tunney Bobblehead is available for $30. Please visit JimTunney.com. Thank you!
