Mental health matters. Men are tough, stubborn and rough around the edges, and it is most important to address the highs, but also the lows. Find the people who relate to you and lean on them. It is a perfect opportunity to do that here at St. X.
This story is unfortunately common, and there are more than just Rondale. His value was never measured by his performance on the field, but by how he impacted others.
Rondale Moore is a true inspiration and always will be. He suffered many injuries some athletes could not imagine having to endure. He never failed to show up for those around him, evident in the number of people who have spoken about him and look to him every single day.
That is something we can learn from today. Always be there for those around you, and there may be people you do not know who need you.
He trained in the same gym as I do and impacted the guys like no other. He held camps around Louisville to inspire kids to chase their dreams and rise above. Seeing that take place and taking part in that environment made me see how good of a man he was.
Rondale was commonly known as a blistering-fast, talented and resilient young receiver. He touched the lives of many and especially inspired young athletes in Louisville, but also around the country.
He had offers from Georgia, Ohio State and Alabama before committing to play for Jeff Brohm at Purdue in 2018.
At Purdue, he did not waste time. He squatted 600 pounds, had 12 catches for 170 yards and two touchdowns against No. 2 Ohio State, and became a freshman All-American. From there, he went on to be drafted in the second round by the Arizona Cardinals.
He was a young man at the top, achieved everything he wanted and was hungry for more. As blessed as we are to have the opportunities to reach our potential, adversity will always be present. Nothing ever has to be done alone. Lean on your brothers and the circle of people you trust, and it will bring out the best in you.
We may not know everything Rondale was going through, but we can remember the life he lived. Although short, he did what some people do not do in a full life.
If you or someone you know is struggling, help is available. Call or text 988 to reach the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline for free, confidential support 24/7.
A tragic story, but it ultimately brings a valuable learning experience to all.
This is similar to our daily lives. You never know what people are going through. There are countless amounts of stress, anxiety and tough times people face every single day. Every day is a fight.
To our advantage, the St. X community will always be something to lean on, whether it be coaches, counselors or teachers. It will always be there throughout our lives, even when we separate from each other.
