There are a handful of professional athletes I’ve respected over the years for varying reasons. Whether it’s due to their extraordinary abilities in their specific sport, their philanthropic efforts off the field, or their impact on society, I have come to admire these individuals greatly. Their dedication to excellence transcends their performance in the sports arena, as they often use their platform to advocate for important causes and inspire the next generation of athletes. My choices span across a wide spectrum, including football, baseball, gymnastics, horseracing, track and field, as well as basketball.

Here are the athletes I’m most impressed by, in no particular order.

Brian Piccolo

Brian Piccolo, a former American football player, earned my deepest respect for his courage, sportsmanship, and the way he faced adversity. His story has resonated with many due to his determination and positive attitude during his battle with cancer, as well as his close friendship with teammate Gale Sayers, which was depicted in the film “Brian’s Song.” Despite his untimely passing, Brian Piccolo’s spirit and legacy continue to inspire and garner respect from people across the world.

Tim Tebow

Tim Tebow is respected by me for his exceptional work ethic, unwavering determination, and commitment to helping others. His philanthropic efforts, both on and off the field, have endeared him to countless fans. Additionally, his leadership qualities, positive attitude, and resilience in the face of challenges have earned him respect from peers and supporters alike. Furthermore, his dedication to using his platform (love his Instagram posts) to make a positive impact on the lives of others, both through his athletic endeavors and charitable work, further contributes to the admiration and respect he receives.

Fran Tarkenton

Fran Tarkenton commands my genuine respect for his exceptional skills as a quarterback and his contributions to the sport of football. His innovative playing style and ability to break records have earned him admiration from fans and fellow athletes. Additionally, Tarkenton’s leadership on and off the field, as well as his dedication to his team and the community, have solidified his status as a role model for many. His enduring impact on the game and his philanthropic endeavors continue to garner respect and admiration from a wide audience, making him my number one childhood hero.

Black Gold/Seabiscuit

Black Gold was a legendary Thoroughbred racehorse known for his remarkable speed and tenacity. His story is one of resilience, determination, and the unbreakable bond between a horse and his trainer, Jockey, and owner.

Black Gold’s journey to stardom began with his unlikely discovery as a colt on a farm, where he showed promise but also faced early setbacks. However, under the guidance of his dedicated trainer, Black Gold overcame adversity and began to showcase his exceptional racing abilities.

What truly earns my respect in Black Gold (and his story) is the unwavering dedication and belief of his trainer, who saw potential in the young colt and invested significant time and effort into nurturing his talent. The bond between the trainer and Black Gold, as well as the perseverance and hard work they both put into realizing their shared dream of racing success, is an inspiring testament to the power of faith, patience, and determination.

Furthermore, Black Gold’s victories on the racetrack, especially his triumph in the Kentucky Derby, solidified his status as a symbol of hope and inspiration during a time of hardship and uncertainty. The horse’s ability to capture the hearts of racing enthusiasts and the public, amidst challenging circumstances, further contributes to the deep respect and admiration for his story.

In essence, the story of Black Gold epitomizes the triumph of the human-animal bond, the resilience of the equine spirit, and the sheer willpower that can defy the odds. It stands as a reminder that dedication, belief, and perseverance can lead to greatness, making it a tale deserving of utmost respect and admiration.

Seabiscuit, much like Black Gold, is a legendary Thoroughbred racehorse that commands immense respect and admiration. His story is a similar one of unwavering determination, resilience, and the unbreakable bond between a horse and his trainer, jockey, and owner.

Seabiscuit’s journey to stardom was marked by remarkable speed and tenacity, as he overcame early setbacks to showcase exceptional racing abilities. His victories on the racetrack, particularly his triumph in the “Match of the Century” against War Admiral, solidified his status as an icon of hope and inspiration during a time of hardship and uncertainty.

What truly earns respect for Seabiscuit’s story is the dedication and belief of his trainer, who recognized his potential and invested significant time and effort into nurturing his talent. The profound bond between the trainer and Seabiscuit, as well as their shared perseverance and hard work, serve as an inspiring testament to the power of faith, patience, and determination.

Seabiscuit’s ability to capture the hearts of racing enthusiasts and the public, amidst challenging circumstances, further contributes to the deep respect and admiration for his story. In essence, the tale of Seabiscuit epitomizes the triumph of the human-animal bond, the resilience of the equine spirit, and the sheer willpower that can defy the odds, making it a narrative deserving of utmost respect and admiration.

Usain Bolt

Usain Bolt commands my admiration for his unparalleled speed, athleticism, and remarkable sportsmanship. As the fastest man in the world, his ability to consistently break records and dominate sprinting events has captivated audiences globally. Beyond his extraordinary physical talents, Bolt’s charismatic personality, humility, and positive attitude have endeared him to fans (like me) and fellow athletes alike. His dedication to his craft and his ability to perform under immense pressure have earned him admiration and respect, making him a true legend in the world of track and field.

Kerri Strug

Kerri Strug continues to draw in immense respect from people around the world for her unparalleled display of determination, grit, and unwavering commitment to her team during the 1996 Olympics. Her iconic final vault, despite a severe ankle injury, not only secured the gold medal for the United States women’s gymnastics team but also epitomized the true spirit of sportsmanship and dedication. Strug’s selfless act of pushing through immense pain and adversity for the collective success of her team serves as a poignant reminder of the extraordinary resilience and sacrifice often required in pursuing greatness. Her courageous feat on the Olympic stage has etched her name in the annals of sporting history and earned her the enduring admiration and respect of countless individuals worldwide.

Drew Brees

Drew Brees commands a great deal of respect for his exceptional talent as a quarterback, his leadership on and off the field, and his philanthropic endeavors. His remarkable achievements in the NFL, including breaking numerous records and leading the New Orleans Saints to victory in Super Bowl XLIV, have solidified his status as a legendary figure in football. Additionally, Brees’ dedication to charitable work, especially in the aftermath of natural disasters such as Hurricane Katrina, has endeared him to fans and communities, earning him widespread admiration and respect for his contributions both as an athlete and a humanitarian. For a great biography, pick up a copy of his.

Shaquille O’Neil

Shaquille O’Neal pulls in respect from fans due to a combination of his exceptional basketball skills, larger-than-life personality, and his philanthropic efforts off the court. As a dominant force in the NBA, Shaq’s impact on the game of basketball, both through his scoring ability and defensive prowess, has earned him the admiration of fans worldwide. Additionally, his charismatic and affable nature has endeared him to supporters, while his ventures in entertainment and business have further solidified his status as a beloved figure in sports. Furthermore, Shaq’s commitment to charitable initiatives and community involvement reflects his compassion and generosity, garnering respect beyond his athletic achievements.

Jim Brown

Jim Brown deserves a high level of respect due to his exceptional talent and impact as a professional football player, as well as his enduring legacy beyond the field. Widely regarded as one of the greatest running backs in NFL history, Brown’s remarkable athleticism, strength, and record-breaking achievements have solidified his status as a legendary figure in American sports. Additionally, his dedication to social activism and advocacy for civil rights, along with his influence as a cultural icon, further contribute to the profound respect and admiration he receives from both the sporting community and society as a whole.

Kurt Warner

Kurt Warner commands a significant level of respect due to his remarkable journey from undrafted and overlooked player to becoming a two-time NFL MVP and Super Bowl champion. His perseverance, resilience, and underdog story resonate deeply with fans and fellow athletes, earning him admiration and respect. Additionally, Warner’s leadership qualities, both on and off the field, along with his dedication to charitable endeavors and community involvement, further contribute to the profound respect and admiration he receives from a wide audience.

Caitlyn Clark

Caitlyn Clark has garnered deep respect (and needs more from some of those folks in the WNBA) for her phenomenal talent, exceptional skills as a basketball player, and her significant impact on the sport. Her remarkable ability to excel on the court, display leadership qualities, and make a profound impact on her team and the basketball community has earned her admiration and respect. Additionally, Clark’s dedication to her craft, sportsmanship, and commitment to using her platform for positive change have further solidified her status as a role model and source of inspiration for fans and fellow athletes.

Roberto Clemente

Roberto Clemente commands immense respect from his peers and fans due to his exceptional talents as a baseball player, his humanitarian efforts, and his enduring legacy as a cultural symbol. As an outfielder for the Pittsburgh Pirates, Clemente displayed extraordinary skills on the field, earning numerous accolades and becoming the first Latin American player to win a World Series as a starter, and later, the only player to reach the milestone of 3,000 hits exclusively in the National League.

However, it is his unwavering commitment to philanthropy and humanitarian work that truly sets him apart. Clemente was deeply dedicated to giving back to his community, particularly in his native Puerto Rico and among Latin American populations. His tragic passing while en route to deliver aid to earthquake victims in Nicaragua further emphasized his selflessness and compassion.

Clemente’s impact extends far beyond his athletic achievements, as he continues to be celebrated for his character, integrity, and significant contributions to the baseball world and society at large. His legacy serves as a source of inspiration and his memory is honored through the Roberto Clemente Award, which recognizes players who exemplify extraordinary sportsmanship and community involvement. In essence, Roberto Clemente’s multifaceted impact as a player, humanitarian, and role model continues to garner immense respect and admiration from both his contemporaries and future generations.

Jackie Robinson

Jackie Robinson commands a phenomenal level of respect for his pivotal role in breaking the color barrier in professional baseball. As the first African American to play in Major League Baseball, Robinson faced intense prejudice and discrimination, yet displayed remarkable courage, talent, and grace under pressure. His leadership and resilience in the face of adversity not only transformed the game of baseball but also catalyzed significant social change. Robinson’s enduring legacy as a trailblazer for racial equality, coupled with his exceptional athletic ability and unwavering dignity, continues to earn him profound respect and admiration from people around the world.

NOW IT’S YOUR TURN

Who are the professional athletes you respect the most and why? Whether it’s their exceptional skills in their respective sports, their philanthropic endeavors off the field, or their impact on society, athletes have the power to inspire and garner respect in numerous ways. Share with us the athletes who have made a lasting impression on you and the reasons behind your admiration. It’s your turn to celebrate the individuals who have left an indelible mark in the world of sports and beyond.