Football epitomizes the essence of teamwork like few other sports can. From the breathtaking plays on the field to the strategic gameplans from the coaching staffs, football showcases the power of collaboration, coordination, and an overall collective effort. Mark Schlereth, a former offensive lineman who won three Super Bowls and two Pro Bowls during his twelve-year NFL career, spoke to the Buffaloes on Saturday morning and emphasized just that.
“I love team. I love being a part of a team. I love the connection of a team,” Schlereth stated. “…make my joy complete by being like-minded, having the same love, being one in spirit and of one mind [is my personal mission statement]. Every one of you has an opportunity to leave a fingerprint on this community, on this team, on these coaches, and everyone in Boulder and beyond.”
He then told a story of why relationships and connectivity are crucial. He spoke of his collegiate career at the University of Idaho being riddled with injuries (29 surgeries, 20 on his knees), which led to zero interest from professional teams. His teammate, Marvin Washington, transferred to Idaho and excelled with the football team, leading to several organizations requesting private workouts from him. During Washington and Schlereth’s time together they built a brotherhood, leading Washington to invite Schlereth to his workouts. Schlereth outshines Washington in all of his workouts, leading Schlereth to gain interest and be selected in the draft.
“I’m sitting in the training room where I spent most of my time… Mike Shanahan, my head coach at the time, came down and said ‘I need a rotational guy that can play defensive end, defensive tackle, somebody that can fit. But most importantly, someone who has the character and integrity to play for the Denver Broncos,” Schlereth stated. “He handed me a list, and on that list there was a name; that name was Marvin Washington. I said sign him. I don’t play a down in the NFL if it wasn’t for Marvin Washington…”
Schlereth is a prime example of how relationship capital is the most valuable capital.
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