Former NFL all-pro, Marcellus Wiley, hosted his Project Transition’s Champions of Change NFL Skills Camp at Crespi High School on Saturday, August 31.
The free camp, instructed by former NFL players, was open to youth of all ages and positions. The mission of the event was to teach football techniques and instill the values of teamwork, discipline, focus, and other life-lessons on the gridiron.
At age eight, Wiley started his football career in the challenging environment of inner-city Los Angeles. As a standout high school student-athlete, he looked over colleges with more popular football programs for an opportunity to attend and play for Columbia University, an elite Ivy League school famous for bright minds but not elite football players. He dominated on the field and excelled in the classroom.
Wiley graduated from Columbia with a bachelor of science degree. And against the odds, he went on to play defensive end for 10 seasons in the National Football League with the Buffalo Bills, San Diego Chargers, Dallas Cowboys, and Jacksonville Jaguars. The retired 10-year veteran amassed many honors and was selected to the Pro Bowl in 2001.
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Wiley remembers the challenges that coaches helped him to overcome. He identifies with young student-athletes trying to find their way. “I just remember all the coaches that lent out their hand, picked me up from practice, took me to practice, supported me, coached me, gave me those tough love words,” he said.
The Compton and L.A. native fondly remembers running up and down Valley Ridge Avenue, Dorsey High School and Crenshaw High’s track, the San Dunes, etc. “These are the experiences that made me. I’m just so L.A.”
Along his journey, Wiley saw athletes he felt were as talented as he was but lacked mentors. “They just needed support, an opportunity, and a chance to show how great they were. So, it’s just a quest of mine to find that in all these kids, unite them, and provide the support they need,” he said.
He finds his work with youth to be rewarding. In addition to the camps, Wiley volunteers in local communities, educating youth about financial literacy and life skills. “That’s where I am right now. I want them to just have the skills to not only play football but learn the game of life.” said Wiley.
Notable coaches and attendance were Terrell Owens, Dennis Northcutt, Donald Penn, Eric Davis, and Matthew Hatchette.
“It’s very important that even if you don’t make it to the highest level, no matter how far football takes you, take those skills and translate them somewhere else. It’s about winning in the game of life and not just sports,”Wiley stated.
The participants were provided with gift bags and photo opportunities. “It was a great experience, especially for me going for free. I learned more about football and met professional football players. A big thanks to Coach Wiley for signing my football and to the coaches for encouraging me on the field,” said L.J. Randle, age 12.
