How Football Shapes Young Lives
By Demario McCall – North Ridgeville & Ohio State Alum, Mentor, Instructor, Coach
When you hand a kid a football, you’re handing them more than just a piece of equipment—you’re handing them a chance to grow. As Demario McCall of North Ridgeville, I’ve seen how powerful sports can be in shaping character, building confidence, and teaching life lessons that last far beyond the field.
Football, in particular, gave me the tools to succeed. But more importantly, it gave me purpose. That’s why I believe so strongly in using the game to help young people find their path.
More Than a Game
Football isn’t just about touchdowns and trophies. For kids, it’s about learning responsibility, discipline, teamwork, and resilience. It’s about showing up when it’s hard, pushing through when it hurts, and realizing you’re stronger than you thought.
These are lessons that stick. When a child learns how to set goals, deal with setbacks, and trust their team, those values follow them off the field and into school, relationships, and life.
A Safe and Positive Outlet
Today’s world is full of distractions and pressures. Sports give kids a healthy, structured environment where they can let off steam, stay active, and build self-esteem. Football, especially, challenges kids physically and mentally in a way that helps them grow stronger and more confident.
For some kids, football is the anchor that keeps them grounded. It’s the reason they stay focused in school, respect their elders, and stay away from negative influences. I’ve seen it with my own eyes.
Finding Mentors Through the Game
One of the most important things football did for me was connect me with mentors—coaches and older players who cared about me as a person. They didn’t just teach me how to run routes or tackle; they taught me how to carry myself, how to lead, and how to give back.
Now that I’m in a position to do the same, I make it a priority. Whether through camps, training programs, or community outreach, I want young athletes to know that Demario McCall is more than a name—they’ve got someone in their corner.
Unity and Teamwork
In football, every player has a role. It doesn’t matter where you come from or what your background is—when that ball is snapped, it’s about working together toward a common goal. That kind of unity teaches kids how to connect with others, communicate effectively, and build trust.
And in a world that sometimes feels divided, football reminds us that we’re all on the same team.
The Future Starts Now
I believe in the power of football because I’ve lived it. As Demario McCall of North Ridgeville, I know how much the game can transform lives. That’s why I encourage parents to get their kids involved, and why I urge other athletes to reach back and uplift the next generation.
Whether a kid dreams of going pro or just wants to be part of something bigger than themselves, sports—especially football—can be the spark that lights their way.
So let’s keep showing up. Let’s keep investing in our kids. Let’s keep using football to build strong, confident, resilient young people.
Because when we pour into them, we’re not just shaping athletes—we’re shaping leaders.