NFL Alumni Launches 'Fatherhood Champions' Program
On June 23, 2025, the NFL Alumni Association took a significant step towards advocating for the vital role fathers play in their children’s lives by launching the 'Fatherhood Champions' program. This initiative was introduced in Nashville, Tennessee, with the goal of providing fathers with the necessary skills, knowledge, and support to excel in their parenting roles.
Purpose of the Program
This initiative, which is backed by a grant from the Tennessee Department of Human Services, aims to equip fathers with the tools they need to positively influence their families. The purpose of this program is threefold: to celebrate fatherhood, to highlight the importance of active parental involvement, and to provide hands-on resources that help fathers navigate their responsibilities.
As part of the initiative, the NFL Alumni hosted a 'Training Camp for Dads' event, held at the Maddox Grand Atrium of the Curb Center at Belmont University. The event drew hundreds of families who were eager to learn about effective parenting strategies and the importance of father involvement in promoting healthy home environments.
Notable Participants
Several former NFL stars are serving as ambassadors for this program, lending their unique perspectives and experiences as fathers. Among them are Al Smith, a national lead ambassador and former All-Pro linebacker, Michael Oher, known for his inspirational journey from adversity to NFL success, and former Titans running back Dexter McCluster, who shared insights on balancing his fatherhood with his professional career. Each ambassador participated in various coaching sessions, mentoring expectant fathers on practical skills like car seat installation and diaper changing, along with overall parenting guidance.
Former Titans player Michael Oher, who has been vocal about the importance of a supportive family structure, expressed the significance of father figures in children's lives. He shared, "Growing up without a steady father figure taught me how critical it is for dads to be present, involved, and supportive." Oher aims to use his platform within the program to communicate the profound impact fathers can have on their children's lives.
Community Impact
The launch of the Fatherhood Champions Program has garnered support from community leaders, including Tennessee Department of Human Services Commissioner Clarence H. Carter, who stated, "Strong families build healthy communities, and fathers play a vital role in that foundation. We're proud to support this program because when we invest in fathers, we're investing in better outcomes for children and families across Tennessee."
This initiative not only emphasizes the importance of fatherhood but also serves as a reminder that engaged fathers foster healthy relationships and contribute to the overall well-being of their children. Participants at the event learned about various resources available to assist them with parenting and co-parenting, alongside valuable strategies for maintaining their physical and mental health, job training, and career development.
The Role of NFL Alumni
Founded in 1967, the NFL Alumni Association has a long-standing tradition of supporting retired NFL players in their transition from professional sports into civilian life. Today, they expand their mission by incorporating family empowerment initiatives like the Fatherhood Champions Program. The focus is on fostering a community where fathers are active participants, role models, and mentors in their children’s lives.
With the support of the NFL Alumni and the Tennessee Department of Human Services, the Fatherhood Champions Program stands to make a lasting impact by shaping the future of fatherhood in Tennessee and beyond. It nurtures an essential dialogue around the importance of father involvement, aiming to build a brighter, healthier future for families across the state.
For more information about the Fatherhood Champions Program and its initiatives, visit
NFL Alumni Fatherhood.