When professional athletes set a real example

Maybe one per cent of one per cent of young athletes who start out playing a given sport. And of those who do “make it” to the professional ranks, not everyone becomes a positive role model that young people can look up to.

One individual who is someone youngsters can certainly look up to is Israel Idonije of the Chicago bears.

Idonije is an outstanding defensive end with the Chicago Bears, who this season made it all the way to the NFC championship game before bowing out to the Green Bay packers. Idonije is a native of Nigeria, raised in Manitoba—an unlikely route to become an All-Star caliber NFL player.

But Idonije has worked very hard to earmn what he has achieved in sport and has had a tremendous career, and along the way has contributed significantly to needy youngsters in his native country, helping to supply food, medicine and clothing.

Paul Friesen of the Winnipeg Sun wrote a fine piece recently on Idonije. It can be viewed at

http://www.torontosun.com/sports/football/2011/01/30/17086886.html

It’s worth reading and certainly tells the story of a young man who appreciates what “stardom” has provided, and does more than talk to show how much he appreciates his own good fortune. His actions have made a huge difference in the lives of countless youngsters.