Bridging The Gap Through Charitable Partnerships

During his childhood, Phil was a weekly YMCA camper throughout the summer months. He attached himself to programs that encouraged self-awareness and provided mentorship. These opportunities helped to establish good leadership qualities, structure, discipline, and resilience.

Surprisingly, skateboarding and BMX cycling was his passion as a young kid. It wasn’t until middle school that he had any interest in playing football. The anticipation of joining a team was exciting! It would later come with disappointment as he didn’t make the team his eighth-grade year. That year taught him a valuable lesson on how to overcome adversity. He was filled with disappointment and anger but empowered by determination to make the team for the next year. He proceeded to engage all the skills he learned while attending mentoring and leadership camps.

With determination, he created obstacle courses in his front yard to work on ball drills, speed, agility, and strength. The next year, he made the team and excelled at the sport. This mindset laid the foundation for Phil to receive a full scholarship to The University of Tennessee. As a college athlete, he truly embraced this role and utilized the life skills he was taught to prepare him for the next level.

Phil is truly the epitome of hard work! The road towards his professional career had hurdles to say the least. The early predictions of being drafted to becoming an undrafted free agent made for a moment of concern. He reflected back to his eighth-grade year and that disappointment he felt. The statement he made was simply, “I’m prepared for this moment!” With those hurdles came triumph and he proceed to take advantage of every opportunity given as a rookie. Phil never took anything for granted and he worked hard as a rookie to secure his spot on the team during training camp.

The NFL was the next level and a major accomplishment in Phil’s life. This opportunity opened many avenues for him on a social level. Being able to transition his mind and use the platform he was given is rewarding on so many levels.

Being a part of the league was exciting. As a young player, Phil, developed great relationships within the community. He was able to use his platform in ways that encouraged youth. He took the time to visit children’s hospitals and share his story with kids. Phillip has a major heart for giving back! On his days off, he would read to elementary children and serve in camps for kids with disabilities.

Phillip wears his heart on his sleeve.  He treats life with great passion. He is a humble person eager to leave a lasting impression that others will remember. He is always willing to listen to others and provide a moment of encouragement. It is simply how you impact a life. This is truly Phil!