Houston linebacker, J.J. Watt, is known for his incredible skills on the field, but it’s his heart and compassion off the field that truly sets him apart. In a recent interview with ABC News’ Will Reeve, Watt opened up about a special relationship that has had a profound impact on his life.
“He was the first person I ever opened up to,” Watt shared with Reeve, referring to a mentor who helped shape him into the man he is today. This mentor, whose identity Watt has chosen to keep private, played a crucial role in Watt’s journey to becoming one of the most respected and admired athletes in the NFL.
Growing up in Pewaukee, Wisconsin, Watt was a standout athlete from a young age. His passion for football was evident, and he quickly became a star player in high school. However, it wasn’t just his physical abilities that caught the attention of coaches and scouts. It was his determination, work ethic, and leadership skills that truly set him apart.
But despite his success on the field, Watt struggled with opening up and expressing his emotions. That’s when his mentor stepped in and changed everything. “He saw something in me that I didn’t see in myself,” Watt shared. “He pushed me to be better, not just as an athlete, but as a person.”
Watt’s mentor became a constant source of support and guidance, helping him navigate the challenges of being a young athlete in the spotlight. “He taught me the importance of humility, hard work, and always staying true to myself,” Watt explained.
As Watt’s football career took off, his mentor remained a crucial part of his life. “No matter how busy I was, he always made time for me,” Watt said. “He was my sounding board, my confidant, and my biggest cheerleader.”
Their bond only grew stronger when Watt suffered a devastating injury in 2016, which forced him to sit out for the entire season. It was during this difficult time that Watt’s mentor truly showed his unwavering support and belief in him. “He reminded me that football doesn’t define who I am and that I have so much more to offer the world,” Watt shared.
Watt’s mentor not only helped him through his injury but also encouraged him to use his platform for good. And that’s exactly what Watt did. In the aftermath of Hurricane Harvey, which devastated Houston in 2017, Watt started a fundraiser that raised over $41 million for relief efforts. His mentor’s words of wisdom and support played a significant role in Watt’s decision to use his influence for the greater good.
Today, Watt continues to make a positive impact both on and off the field. He is a three-time NFL Defensive Player of the Year, a five-time Pro Bowler, and a two-time NFL Walter Payton Man of the Year. But to Watt, his greatest achievement is the person he has become, thanks to his mentor.
“He was the first person I ever opened up to, and I am forever grateful for his presence in my life,” Watt shared with a smile. “He taught me the importance of being vulnerable and the power of genuine connections.”
Watt’s story is a reminder that behind every successful person, there is often a mentor who played a significant role in their journey. And for Watt, that mentor will always hold a special place in his heart. “He is more than just a mentor to me; he is family,” Watt said.
In a world where vulnerability is often seen as a weakness, Watt’s story serves as a powerful reminder that it takes strength and courage to open up and let someone in. And when we do, the impact can be life-changing.
So, let us all take a page out of Watt’s book and be open to the guidance and support of mentors in our lives. And for those who have had a mentor like Watt’s, let us take a moment to thank them for their unwavering support and belief in us. As Watt’s story shows, their impact can truly be immeasurable.