Is there a reputation that has stained NFL athletes that is not true?
I would say that because of recent events that surround the NFL most players are being perceived as unlawful or even uncontrollable and that’s just not the case. Most athletes are outstanding citizens that care about the people that watch and listen to the NFL every day. It’s unfortunate that the behavior of a few can have a larger impact on the leagues reputation than the upstanding behavior that the majority of players represent daily.
In light of the recent issues with the NFL and domestic violence, do you have an opinion on how the situation(s) are handled?
In no way, shape, fashion or form should Domestic Violence be acceptable and those that commit such acts should be dealt with according to the very letter of the law. I also believe that the NFL learned a very valuable lesson in that it is a global icon, therefore it has to approach such social issues with the same responsibility that it does when protecting its shield. The world has spoken to its displeasure in how these issues were first handled as it should have. However, it should also be applauded that the NFL is doing everything in its power to attempt to get it right going forward. Only time will tell.
Do you feel that NFL athletes are put on a pedestal and therefore athletes are not truly taught the fundamentals of just doing the right thing?
I feel that athletes like most anyone that is found to be very good
at what they do, will always be placed in high regard which can
cause for “star treatment” from time to time. However, I also
believe that it is the responsibility of the people who are raising
these individuals to ensure that they do not develop false
insecurities, which often lead to making the wrong decisions.
What is your take on college athletes being paid to play?
I think that college athletes have every right to be paid for their
services while in college. To me it’s only fair treatment. The
scholarship isn’t enough in comparison to the astonishing
amounts that some schools make from their athletes. However, I
think it should be done responsibly in order to maintain as even
of a playing field for all schools.
What advice would you give a college athlete entering the NFL?
My advice for a college player entering the NFL would be to make sure that you have a solid understanding as to what your value is a player. By knowing this you will then be able to understand what it is that you will need to do to be successful at the next level. Having left college with two years of eligibility still remaining I sacrificed a lot of value in that I got drafted in the third round but could have maximized my value by better perfecting my craft - by remaining in school for at least another year. However, everyone’s situation is different and you have to make decisions based on your individual circumstances. When it is your time to transition do your homework on the people that are looking to help you such as agents, lawyers, trainers, etc. It could mean the difference in you being a part of the 75% that retire broke and the 25% that leave the game in a healthy condition spiritually, mentally, physically and financially.
What are some of the hardest lessons you’ve learned as an NFL player?
The hardest lesson that I learned as an NFL player is that when it’s over it is truly over! Like most I wished I could relive me career to make smarter decisions with my time, money and things I paid attention to, but at the same time I wouldn’t trade those experiences for anything.
To learn more about George Hegamin, his mission as a Mentor, Motivator, Coach and his motto - "PURPOSE DRIVEN SERVANT"..visit www.georgehegamin.com
George Hegamin - Continued
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