Mikey, are you glad that we invited Jim Tressel as a special speaker for the 2010 National “Christian” Leadership Conference? What an inspirational message of integrity and faith he shared with all of our cadets!
Go to this link: http://www.topix.com/forum/source/columbus-dispatch/T4UULQ79155ST2JPT and look at the comment posted on 31 March by an Ohio State alum who also attended (I wonder if he got discount tattoos like Tyrell Pryor):
Dear (name withheld)
Good article. I think Jim Tressel is a man of character (needs definition) and should be restored for two reasons. First, most people don’t know how he addresses character with his coaches and players, but he does have an entire program to help his players grow into men. I had the privelege of hearing him speak at the United States Air Force Academy’s National Character and Leadership Symposium (let that sink in) last year on the program he uses. Afterward, a seminary student I was mentoring was able to interview him on his beliefs and it was a very special moment.
Second, about beliefs, since Jim Tressel and I are followers of Jesus Christ, we understand the gospel which, at its heart, says people can change because of the relationship we have with Him. At our core, we know two things: we are not perfect (despite what many think of Christians), but we can change. People need to step back and stop demanding perfection in a judgmental way, because when they do two things happen in the people they demand it from: they start hiding things and/or they start on a hideous path of trying to meet or falsely display that perfection and burn out or in.
In my mind, the players and coach have asked for forgiveness for either a momentary brain lock or a deeper character issue. Either way, in my mind, the simple act of asking started a process of their restoral and growth from this. Should Coach be fired? It’s not my decision. But if he is, some other university is going to get a mighty fine coach and man.
Regards,
(USAF Academy Staffer’s USAF rank, position and USAF Academy unit withheld)
