What professional athlete inspires you the most and why?

If you're not following, David Goggins, you're traveling in the wrong direction.

Years ago, I went to an annual fundraiser dinner for the BoyScouts in Johnstown, PA.  The guestspeaker was former Steeler, Merril Hoge. I’m not originally from western, PA so I wasn’t like the locals who are uberpassionate about their “Black and Gold”. When I heard that a former Steeler (of whom I knew nothing) wasspeaking, I was ready for it to be over before it even began…..until he startedspeaking.
Merril Hoge was easily one of the most inspirationalspeakers I’ve ever heard.  His mantra is “Finda Way” has guided him throughout his life. Initially it helped him go from a kid playing football in a small townall the way to the NFL.  Later in life,it helped him face and beat cancer.
I walked away from that dinner with a profound respect forMerril.  Later that year I was fortunateto meet him and he is as wonderful in person as he is I in a group and on television.  He inspired me and I recommend his book “Finda Way” or him as a speaker if you ever get a chance to hear him.

I have to say, Dwane “The Rock” Johnson is the athlete that inspires me. If you see pictures of him when he started in WWE to now, he really takes working out seriously.

Kurt Warner, a remarkable figure in sports and former QB of the Rams, has left an indelible mark on my life through his Christian faith, unwavering determination, and extraordinary humility. As a devout Christian, Warner's open display of his faith on and off the field resonates with me deeply. His ability to integrate his beliefs into his professional career showcases the power of staying true to one's values, even in high-pressure environments. Much like my own journey as a Reconnaissance Marine, where faith often acts as a guiding force, Warner's example demonstrates the strength that faith can provide in challenging circumstances.

Warner's story of ascending from obscurity to NFL greatness against all odds is a testament to the power of unrelenting perseverance. From working in a supermarket to becoming a Super Bowl-winning quarterback, his journey reflects the essence of the military ethos I've experienced as a Recon Marine. The drive to excel, regardless of the obstacles, resonates deeply with my military journey. Just as I've faced adversity and pushed myself to achieve more, Warner's tenacity encourages me to keep moving forward and to believe in the possibility of success even when faced with seemingly insurmountable challenges.

Perhaps most inspiring is Warner's humility despite his remarkable achievements. In an era marked by ego-driven athletes, his modesty shines brightly. This trait speaks volumes to me as a military professional, where humility is a cornerstone of effective teamwork and leadership. As a Recon Marine, I've learned the importance of putting the mission and the team before personal recognition, and Warner's humility is a powerful reminder of this principle. His ability to remain grounded even in the face of fame and acclaim encourages me to continue embracing humility as I navigate the demands of my military career.

In conclusion, Kurt Warner's Christian faith, unwavering determination, and remarkable humility have impacted my life, paralleling my experiences as a Reconnaissance Marine. His ability to intertwine faith with his professional pursuits, his relentless pursuit of success against all odds, and his commitment to humility resonate deeply with the values and challenges I've encountered in the military. Warner's story is a source of inspiration that reminds me to stay true to my faith, persevere in adversity, and maintain humility in all that I do.

Shohei Ohtani. I never see a more talented baseball player in my lifetime. He has dedicated all his time to hone his skills and becomes the best baseball player ever.

Johnny Manziel because he had everything and lost it all. Today he continues to try to be better each and everyday although he is looked at by many as a huge disappointment. His career as a football player doesn’t define the person he is today.

Cal Ripken Jr. has always been my hero. 2,632 consecutive games played. C'mon seriously. They called him the Iron Man. When he came up he broke the rules for being a Major League shortstop. He was committed, played through injuries, gave 100% effort every day he played. That kind of personal discipline is rarely found these days, most certainly not in today's Major League players. He didn't stop after retiring either. He established a youth baseball league, and continues to be of selfless service to people.
He devoted his life to what he cared about and did it with good moral character.

I would love to have Doug Flutie as a mentor. The utmost respect for a player who had the ultimate mindset to be a successful college, CFL & NFL quarterback!

Any boxer,mma fighter inspires me ,especially if he/she doesn't quit and gives his/her all to win, especially since they don't depend on anyone but themseves. I've seen these professional atheletes, losing for 2 out of 3 rounds and yet come back to win. You never know what blow or submission will seal the deal unless you try.

Tebow is my favorite professional athlete because of his relationship with God and his patriotic stance.