On Tuesday, February 8, 2005, Mr. Nathan Poole, wide
receiver for the Arizona Cardinals, stopped by to kick off the celebration
of Black History Month at W. W. Moore, Jr. Juvenile Detention Home. Mr.
Poole electrified students and staff as he spoke during an assembly
program. He witnessed to the sacrifices and struggles of famous African
American Athletes in the past such as Satchel Paige, Jesse Owens and
Jackie Robinson who paved the way for him to be successful today.
Mr. Poole talked about
his days of playing sports at George Washington High School under the
leadership of Coach Harry Johnson. He spoke about the importance of
having someone to mentor you and encourage you to fulfill your dreams.
Coach Johnson was that kind of coach.
Part of Mr. Poole’s
presentation also included showing film footage from his famous touchdown
catch against the Minnesota Vikings during the 2003 football season. As a
result of this play he was invited by the mayor of Green Bay to accept a
key to the city.
In conclusion, Mr. Poole
shared with the students the need to persevere even though it may seem that
the odds may be against you. He told of being cut from the team three
different times. Each time he vowed to work harder and smarter. His
philosophy has always been for every step backward take three steps
forward. At the end of the program, Mr. Poole shook hands with the
students and gave them his autograph.
