Courtesy of The Birmingham News

Make the Grade and Make a Difference by DeMeco Ryans

Life is funny. It changes in ways you don't expect and at times you don't anticipate. Take this essay, for example. As a football player for the University of Alabama Crimson Tide, I've been asked to talk with lots of reporters for lots of stories. Most of the time, I didn't mind. It goes along with the territory of playing for a school with such rich tradition and passionate fans.

However, I was most excited to have the chance to write a piece that not only reflects on my career, but hopefully, points to some positive aspects of college athletics and college life that don't always make the sports pages. And in keeping with past media interviews, if I can offer any words that might serve to motivate a high school student to make good choices about their future, then I'm all over that.  READ MORE