Thursday, September 10, 2009

Family Huddle


I heard a great interview today on NPR with members of the Manning family: Archie, Peyton and Eli. We all know who they are – Peyton is quarterback for the Colts, Eli for the Giants and each have won Super Bowl titles. Their dad, Archie, was an all-star in his day at Ole Miss and went on to play professional football as well.

I’ve always liked these guys – hmmm, could it be because they played in the SEC? But it’s also because I think they’re class acts. They just seem like upright guys who support the communities in which they live (Ever been to Indianapolis? Peyton’s name is on the children’s hospital and he’s involved with many charitable organizations.). You’d never see a Manning caught up in a dog fighting circuit. I’m just sayin’.

Anyhoo, the Mannings have come out with, of all things, a children’s book called “Family Huddle,” about three brothers who play sports and their parents who support them unconditionally (oldest brother, Cooper, played at Ole Miss until an injury derailed his football career; Eli was a star at Ole Miss as well). During the interview, Archie talked about how his own father never pushed him in sports, but encouraged and praised him, and he said he always did the same with his sons. The Mannings are successful because they push themselves and support each other; not because an overbearing parent or coach needled them to be better. They build each other up, they don't tear each other down. There was no spirit- breaking in that family. That’s a refreshing philosophy, especially in a sport that can be brutal in the way it treats young men.

So, cheers to the Mannings. “Family Huddle” is definitely on the Christmas list this year.
Images courtesy of EPSN and NPR

3 comments:

Gabi said...

As a mom of 2 boys, I think this will be under our tree as well! Thanks for the post. It is refreshing to be able to have real sports heroes...

Chic Coles said...

The Mannings live in New Orleans and sometimes I see them around town. This is such a great idea, I know it will be a huge hit down here in the South where football is a big deal.

Jessica Ryan said...

love it! Will look for it!