Thank you, Bo Jackson.
High-profile celebrities sometimes act just like that, high-profile celebrities, better-than-thou folks who believe the common man is not as important as they. After watching Bo interact Wednesday with my 9-year-old son, Joseph, at the Regions Charity Golf Classic Pro-Am in Hoover, it's evident that the former multi-sport athlete is one of us -- a common man.
Bo was extremely personable, cracking jokes to Joseph. He wanted to know why Joseph, a third-grader at Smiths Station Elementary, was playing hooky. We know that Bo, winner of the 1985 Heisman Trophy as an Auburn running back, takes education seriously. After all, he was the keynote speaker last week at Auburn University's graduation. Joseph looked up to Bo, knowing full well this was arguably the greatest football player in the history of Auburn. Jackson didn't mind. I get the impression he really likes kids.
As a father, it was neat to see my son chase a sports superstar all over a golf course. As a 40-year-old, it was difficult to keep up. Perhaps if Bo didn't mind, he could have taken Joseph for 18 holes and I'll meet the guys back at the clubhouse afterward.
It's clear that Bo has not lost his athleticism. The dude is pretty buff and can slap a golf ball a mile. He was out-distancing pro playing partner Hal Sutton off the tee. Other celebs in Bo's group included American Idol winner Taylor Hicks, former Alabama and NFL star linebacker Cornelius Bennett and the greatest knuckleball pitcher of all time, Phil Neikro. All are accomplished golfers.
Joseph plopped himself into the golf cart with Bo, who continued to give him a lecture on playing hooky and wondered if my child secretly worked for the IRS. Later, Bo, citing fatigue, asked Joseph to carry a club or two for him. Joseph loves golf and just to have the opportunity to briefly caddie for Bo Jackson is a thrill he will never forget.
Thank you, Bo.
Email
Facebook
Google
Twitter
Favorites
More
Advertisement