Jamesetta Cleveland disagrees with a saying popular in sports circles: “Ball is life.”
Instead, she believes in the opportunities created by sports. Going beyond performance on the field is what’s key, said Cleveland, founder of Sports Mom University, a consulting agency that navigates a student-athlete’s recruiting and playing sports professionally.
That statement was echoed Thursday at the “NFL Dads” panel at Point Park University, where four men whose sons are playing in the NFL talked about what’s involved in parenting a high-level athlete. the panelists were Terrence Parsons, father of Green Bay Packers defensive lineman Micah Parsons; Lamont Ramsey, father of Steelers cornerback Jalen Ramsey; Stacy Elliott, father of Dallas Cowboys running back Ezekiel Elliott; and Tony Williams, father of Steelers cornerback Brandin Echols.
“All my kids were athletes …. but it wasn’t until somebody said hey, you never know what your kids can do until you take them outside of Harrisburg, Pennsylvania,” Parsons said. “Meeting people outside your hometown and seeing how you measure up is big.”
Opportunities include networking and branding — but with that comes challenges. Parents want to make sure their sons are making the best decisions that are financially responsible, align with their morals and work with people with good intentions for them.
“Go back to the people who were with you, when nobody knew if you were going to make it to the NFL, or NBA or MLB,” Ramsey said. “Go back and look at who’s in that circle then, and then look at who’s in that circle now, and see if you can cross-reference in those circles.”
Fame can be difficult, Elliott said. As his son went through Ohio State and later the Dallas Cowboys, the reality of having a “normal life” became lessened. It was important to remain grounded.
“Ezekiel, by nature, is a very humble guy,” he said. “My son will be 31 in July. My opportunity has been more about developing a relationship with me as a young adult.”
Ramsey emphasized to his children the importance of getting a degree, being a good person and working hard. All four dads said their children — NFL stars or not — were treated and loved the same in their households. It wasn’t difficult to support each of their children the same.
“Sports is not who we are,” Ramsey said. “It’s what we do to get where we are and to get where we want to be.”
An active, present father is crucial for a child’s development, said Cleveland.
“The best place ever to get to know your child is at the dinner table,” Williams said.
Athletes should be preparing now for their future when their playing days end. It’s better to capitalize on opportunities now while players are still active because they are still recognizable to the public.
“I did my best to prep my son,” Elliott said. “We want him to know, we are here to love you. You came in the world and contribute to civilization and be a great citizen in America.”