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 player, he accepted a football scholarship from Columbia University, an elite Ivy League school famous for bright minds but not elite football players.
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. “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.
“So, 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.”
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.
Wiley currently hosts the “More To It” podcast, as part of the Dan Patrick Podcast Network. He formerly co-hosted “SportsNation.”
