There are a lot of things that can be improved in the sports culture to provide more guidance for athletes. Despite the informational and personnel resources available at the collegiate and professional level, no program is more productive than all athletes holding themselves accountable for their own success. Tre’ Stallings, former Ole Miss Rebel and Kansas City Chief, always said that his past would not dictate his future. With the help of a great mentor, Stallings realized early on that he could hold no one more responsible for his education and success than himself. We are grateful he chose to share his experience and thoughts on financial education, mentorship, and taking initiative with our readers. Click the link below to read more of his wise words!

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In Part Two of DeArrius Howard’s interview, he spends a great deal of time discussing the importance of a professional athlete’s need to say NO – NO to their families, NO to their friends, and NO to themselves. Many young athletes that come into newfound wealth are not prepared to say NO to those who have given them so much. However, veteran and retired athletes alike have long commented on the need to stay focused on long-term financial security and independence for everyone. “First, if they truly have your best interest at heart, they will understand.” Wise words, D! Read Part Two here!

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All athletes encounter countless opportunities to learn life lessons over their respective sports journeys. While many struggle from poor decisions, a select few use those same experiences to adjust and create their game plan for success. De’Arrius Howard, former Arkansas Razorback, is one athlete that gained incredible wisdom from his childhood and adult sports experiences. Many who know him comment on his smile, his maturity, and his poise. What’s most impressive is the way he approached the game of football, his leadership, and his legacy. Because Howard had such great insight and advice to share, we have divided his interview into two parts. Read Part One to learn about his journey from SEC football to the pros to Corporate America!

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Most young athletes dream of playing professional sports, but don’t put a lot of thought into how they will get there. Sure, talent and academics are important, but they somehow believe that someone along the way will just plug in the missing pieces. For Eastern Arkansas basketball standout Daniel Bandy, his holes were plugged with misinformation. Nonetheless, a professional sports journey is not an easy feat, and Bandy’s commitment to succeed drove him to navigate a very unorthodox route to the next level. Read on to learn how Bandy uses the twists and turns of his career to minister to other young athletes!

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Professional athletes play the game for one purpose – TO WIN. And Murray State alum’s Marcus Brown has done that many, many times over his 15-year sports career. The Euro-League basketball legend has achieved a level of success that most young athletes dream of, being touted as one of the top U.S. players to EVER play abroad. He has earned multiple championships, MVP accolades, All-Star nominations, and Hall of Fame inductions. The relentless pursuit of greatness displayed by the 1996 2^nd round NBA Draft pick is a trait he hopes to pass on to future basketball players. Brown shares wisdom and advice with our readers to help the next generation of hoopsters succeed and “pay it forward.”

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