Graduation ceremonies across the nation saw an impressive lineup of sports figures taking the stage to deliver memorable commencement speeches. Personal stories, retirement plans, literary and musical references, and well-placed humor filled their messages and made them relevant to graduates. Alex Smith, Russell Wilson, and Peyton Manning were just a few of the big name speakers. They motivated the future generation through their leadership and effectiveness on the stages provided to them.
Alex Smith took creativity in public speaking to another level during his address. He stressed the value of every individual creating their own journey. Further, he pushed to localize the American dream, making it adjust to each person’s unique situation.
“Each generation must customize the American dream to fit their own circumstances and the realities of the world around them.” – Alex Smith
He told his story with great pride. I — I did it from Canton, Ohio,” he proclaimed, embodying his rags to riches journey and indomitable spirit. Smith further challenged the audience by stating that they would emerge as one of two types of individuals: those who need a helping hand and those who do not.
Lessons from Russell Wilson
Russell Wilson, former Super Bowl Champion QT, gave a similarly great speech. Sure, he was called out for stretching the truth on a few details regarding his career path, but his basic story hit home. Wilson opened up about his own life experiences, highlighting some of the obstacles he faced and the key lessons that shaped him during his journey.
“If you know what you’re capable of, if you’re always prepared, and you keep things in perspective, then life has a way of turning no into yes.” – Russell Wilson
He pointed to game-changers and risk-takers, such as Michael Jordan and Steve Jobs, as role model examples of resilience and innovation. After that, Wilson told an anecdote about how he once lost a billion dollars. This experience brought home the awful realities of living life under a microscope.
“Success isn’t owned. It’s rented, and rent is due every single day.” – A.J. Brown
Wilson further inspired graduates with a quote attributed to Bruce Lee:
“Be like water making its way through cracks. Unless Ray Lewis is chasing you.” – Russell Wilson
This metaphor beautifully illustrated the need for creativity and courage as we navigate through the challenges life presents.
Insights from Peyton Manning and Drew Brees
Peyton Manning zeroed in on three core principles that he feels should help graduates no matter where their life’s path may lead. He urged them to run their own route, practice self-awareness as a form of leadership, and think bigger than today.
“Graduates nationwide have the chance to shake up the workplace by influencing change.” – Peyton Manning
Here’s one breakthrough Drew Brees shares about overcoming his career defining moment. It turned even worse for him when he incurred a major shoulder injury right as he was heading into an unrestricted free agent offseason. Brees’s story was a powerful reminder of what can be accomplished in spite of crushing setbacks, and it landed with many in the crowd.
We were inspired by Abby Wambach, passionate advocate and world champion for women’s sports who said the key to success is to get comfortable with failure. She implored graduates to not be meek, and to see failure as a space for innovation.
“It’s okay to fail. Don’t let the fear of failure define you.” – Rob Hale
Reflections from Women in Sports
Sabrina Ionescu was a highlight, dazzling the audience by making a half-court shot while delivering her speech. This impressive feat, achieved after LoBianco completed the obstacle course, gave plenty of evidence to her athletic skill and acted as an icebreaker that invigorated a hesitant crowd.
Sue Bird and Megan Rapinoe that 2020 became the defining year for their generation. They urged graduates not to accept the world as it is but instead to fight for change.
“We are separated in ways we’ve never experienced and facing a world that will never be the same. So, I’m not asking you to come together. I’m going to ask you to demand better together.” – Megan Rapinoe
Their messages struck a chord with listeners who recognize the role social responsibility plays in the evolving world around us.
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