“As a football coach, I always had to be ready to overcome unexpected challenges. With injuries, crowd noise, and especially weather, the game plan is always adjusting to adversity.
November was National Adoption Month, and I hope this spirit remains strong in our hearts. Just as many families leaned on neighbors’ hospitality for shelter in the wake of hurricane Irma, many children across the United States are waiting for someone to become their hero through foster care or adoption.
We know that children do better when they feel safe and loved. As adoptive and foster parents, my wife Lauren and I have witnessed the transformative effect of welcoming children into our home.
I am always humbled when former players thank me years later after I coached them. Usually they mention how grateful they were for an opportunity. Though the joy I gained from mentoring young people far outweighs what I can give.
The same is true in fostering and adoption. Being a dad is my best job and my family is the greatest team. If you believe every child deserves a safe, loving home, contact your local child welfare agency about children available in your state.”
Tony Dungy was the head football coach of the Indianapolis Colts from 2002 through 2008. They qualified for the playoffs every year and in 2007, defeated the Chicago Bears in the Super Bowl. More importantly, as he says in his letter, he and his wife are the parents of seven children. This message was adapted from his letter of 11-15-17 to the Tampa Bay Times.