Akron North: NFL Veteran Mark Murphy

To kickoff our spring program at Akron North High School tonight, we were extremely fortunate to provide a meal and have 12 year NFL veteran and Green Bay Packers Hall of Famer, Mark Murphy, speak to the kids.

From growing up with alopecia, getting bullied and being involved in a lot fights to working hard, persevering, and signing as a free agent with the Green Bay Packers, Mark had a lot of wisdom to share. The interactive examples he used to teach important lessons were extremely valuable.

While speaking Mark asked JJ Banks, an Akron North student and football player, if he would grab a napkin off of the table in the back for him. JJ stood up, walked to the back, grabbed a napkin and then walked up to the front to hand it to Mr. Murphy.

Mark then proceeded to lay a $20 bill on the podium in front of him. He told JJ that if he could get him another napkin within 5 seconds he would give him the $20. What do you think happened? JJ proceeded to jump up, run to a grab a napkin and run it to the front to Mr. Murphy.

“What motivates you? What drives you? What makes you want to work harder?”

“What motivates you? What drives you? What makes you want to work harder?” Mark continued. (and yes he gave JJ the $20) Mark wanted to teach the kids about motivation. He wants them to find what motivates in them to succeed, whether that is in the classroom, extracurricular activities or life.

“Even greater than motivation is discipline. Discipline is doing the things that you don’t want to do.” Mark continued to explained. “Whether that is studying for a test you have to take tomorrow while your friends party or shooting 50 more jump shots after practice when everyone else wants to go home.” Mark told the kids that if they can learn discipline they will undoubtedly be successful.

“There are two things you control in life: your attitude and your effort.”

Thank you so much Mark for taking the time out of your schedule to teach and impart wisdom on the young men and women at Akron North High School. In the words of Mr. Murphy always remember that, “There are two things you control in life: your attitude and your effort.”

Do you want to get involved? Spreading the word about FullyEquipped or donating at FullyEquipped.co/Donate is an easy first step. 100% of all the donations we receive go to helping those in need! Do you know an underfunded school program in need? Submit a Request for Assistance at FullyEquipped.co/Request.  If you have any questions please do not hesitate to contact us. 

God Bless,

The FullyEquipped Team