As educators, it is our responsibility to introduce our students to people who can inspire and motivate them to push through challenges and strive for success. One such person is Kwon Alexander, an NFL superstar whose path to greatness can impart a valuable life lesson for every student.
Who is Kwon Alexander?
Kwon Alexander was born in Alabama on August 3, 1994. He excelled in sports from a young age and quickly developed a passion for football. His talent was undeniable; however, things took an unexpected turn when his brother, Broderick Taylor, was killed in a fight. The loss of his brother had a significant impact on Alexander’s life and served as motivation to pursue his dreams relentlessly.
After graduating from high school, he attended LSU (Louisiana State University) on a scholarship. During his college career, he became an acclaimed linebacker and decided to enter the NFL Draft after junior year. In 2015, he was drafted in the fourth round by the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.
Tragedy struck again when Alexander’s close friend and former teammate, Myron Pinson, was killed in a car accident just months after joining the team. Despite these personal losses, Alexander continued to keep his focus on football.
In 2019, Kwon Alexander signed with the San Francisco 49ers. He played a pivotal role in helping the team reach the Super Bowl that season.
How can we teach our students about Kwon Alexander?
Alexander’s life story is rich with lessons that can inspire our students to overcome their adversities:
1. Perseverance: Teach students about perseverance by showing how Alexander faced challenges head-on – from losing loved ones to injuries during his career – yet never gave up on his passion for football.
2. Hard work: Students can learn about the importance of hard work through Kwon’s dedication to improving his skills on and off the field, demonstrating that success demands commitment and determination.
3. Goal-setting: Kwon’s accomplishments highlight the importance of setting goals and working diligently to achieve them. Help students understand that by establishing clear objectives for themselves, they can create a roadmap to their own personal success.
4. Resilience: Alexander’s story can provide an opportunity to discuss how we can build resilience in the face of adversity – whether it’s in sports, academics, or our personal lives.
5. Support systems: Encourage students to build strong support networks, recognizing that friends and family can provide much-needed encouragement during difficult times – just as Alexander’s loved ones did for him.
Classroom activities
To reinforce the lessons learned from Kwon Alexander’s life story, consider incorporating these activities into your curriculum:
1. Reflection essays: Have students write reflection essays detailing what they have learned from Kwon Alexander’s story, and how they can apply these lessons to their own lives.
2. Goals chart: Create a goals chart where students write down their short-term and long-term goals. Encourage them to revisit this chart regularly, updating according to their progress.
3. Guest speakers: Invite local athletes or community members whose stories reflect resilience and perseverance to speak with your class, providing real-world examples of overcoming adversity.
4. Teamwork exercises: Foster team-building exercises that emphasize collaboration and communication among classmates – both essential skills for resilience and personal growth.
Kwon Alexander’s life is an inspiring story of overcoming obstacles and achieving greatness despite adversity. As educators, it is our duty to share these important lessons with our students, empowering them with the knowledge that they too can triumph over life’s challenges and emerge victorious.
