Former NFL Player Inspires BC Students

Former pro football player Steve Fitzhugh made a name for himself as an athlete, but now he’s making a difference in the lives of young people through his inspirational messages about his faith in God.

Fitzhugh grew up in Akron, Ohio, where he excelled at both track and football. He was a top five hurdler in the nation in high school and went on to accept a scholarship to run track and play football at Miami University. After college, he played professional football in the National Football League (NFL) for the Denver Broncos. 

And while he’s proud of his athletic career, Fitzhugh is even more pleased with the work he does today. Now he travels to colleges around the country, speaking to students and inspiring them with his story.

In fact, Fitzhugh spoke to Bluefield College students on October 31 about his struggles growing up in Akron and being around drugs, alcohol, and tobacco from a young age. He told the students he credits God for his ability to stay away from that environment his whole life. 

“I had a personal encounter with Jesus Christ,” said Fitzhugh.

He also spoke about the work he did teaching civilians in Israel how to play football. He called this experience one of the most religious times of his life where he felt closer to God than ever before.

Fitzhugh said that being able to see God in his life helped him find his path today. He also said that God is present in everybody’s life, and he encouraged the BC students to look for Him, pray, and talk to Him. 

“Steve’s style is fresh and humorous as he tells about his life lessons from the NFL,” said BC’s Josh Arnold, associate vice president for student development.

As a certified NFL transition coach, Fitzhugh also mentors pro football rookies and retirees. He helps the rookies transition to the NFL and helps the veterans with life after football, including managing their money, looking for jobs, and adapting to their new life. 

BC students who attended Fitzhugh’s speech said the motivational speaker controlled the room with his voice and character. They said he kept things exciting as he engaged with the crowd. One student called his speech “electric,” and others agreed that they took something positive away from his speech. 

“I loved the way he brought energy and kept everybody on their toes and engaged,” said junior Mike Everett.