Next Man Up

When Ozzie McKenzie looks back at his life, when there’s a free moment to do so of course, what the workaholic President and General Manager of the Los Angeles Bandits organization sees is two very different worlds.  
Being Poor doesn’t mean you’re not capable.  
Two opposing universes that have shaped today’s very recognizable Hall-of-Famer.  
Being Poor doesn’t mean you’re not focused.  
One which started out full of family love while skipping stones along a sun-baked road every day after school, shoes optional.  
“Nothing is impossible Oswald, nothing. Your mind is your real strength… remember that”, Uncle Ike’s alcoholic eyes burned.  
Ozzie was ten when he saw his first paved road.  
Being Poor doesn’t mean you can’t dream big.  
Staring into New York’s endless skyscrapers… then into a sea of yellow taxis… shocked at the integration of those crowded sidewalks… seeing all of it up close thanks to being flown-in as a finalist for the prestigious Heisman Trophy award.  
“Poverty is the greatest motivator of them all.”  
Ozzie’s trip changed him, focused him to what can be found deep inside… to being a Champion, a respected Champion.  
“The bomb blew a massive hole in the rear wall of the Church, destroying the back steps. There were children in the basement at the time, they were preparing for choir.”  
Nine years old is not an age where hate like this can be understood.