Maurice Alexander was a promising college football player at Utah State, but was kicked off the team for punching a teammate in the face during an argument at a party. Maurice had knocked his teammate unconscious, and the hit had inflicted severe facial injuries that required reconstructive surgery. He served a 45 day sentence, plus racking up a debt of $20,000 in compensation. Maurice moved back home with his mother in a rough St. Louis neighborhood. His cousin had gotten him a job as a janitor at Edward Jones Dome, the home of the St. Louis Rams. He made $8.50 an hour as he recalls, scraping gum from the floors, sweeping, moping, and taking out the trash. He needed the money not just to pay his legal debts, but also to pay for online classes. He never lost sight of his goal of becoming a professional football player. Utah State decided to give Maurice a 2nd chance, and he did not disappoint them. He evolved into a standout player, a team leader, and eventually a graduate. The next spring, he was drafted in the 4th round by his hometown team, the St. Louis Rams, and his dream of becoming a professional football player came true. He upgraded the mop bucket for a helmet, and instead of cleaning the locker rooms, hes getting dressed in one. He also got a bit of a raise. He has yet to prove himself as a professional player, but only time will tell. The moral of the story, if you have a dream, dont lose sight of it. Poor life decisions may derail your plans, but hard work and focus can get you back on track. espn.go/video/clip?id=11697686
Posted on: Tue, 14 Oct 2014 14:00:00 +0000
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