For the second year in a row, the Lutzie 43 Foundation was asked to speak to some of the nation’s top high school football players at the Under Armour All-America High School Football Game in Orlando, FL.

Mike shared a version of the “Philip’s Legacy…What Legacy Are You Leaving?” talk with the players, encouraging them to be great friends and teammates. He congratulated them on their achievements, reminding them that thousands of players wish they could be in their shoes.

Above all, Mike encouraged them not to waste the opportunity and the platform they’ve been given. He told them, “ If you’re so good that they can’t ignore you….that’s all it’s gonna be. And I fear you could find yourself in a situation like my son. I want you to be so great that you can be counted on.”

Mike encouraged the players to be available. Available, a word used in the 43 Lessons to Legacy character-development curriculum, means being obtainable, accessible or at one’s disposal. Philip was available to anyone who needed him, whenever they needed him.

Mike shared the story of Philip and Bailey Moody, the young girl he befriended after she found out she had cancer. Philip spent hours driving to see and visit with Bailey and her family, even though he had plenty of other commitments as a college student and athlete.

Using Philip’s example, Mike was able to paint a picture of what it looks like to use an athletic platform to touch—and change—people’s lives. Many of the players approached Mike after the talk to grab copies of the 43 Lessons to Legacy curriculum, bracelets and to tell Mike of the impact his message had on them.

The following day at the All-America Game, many of the players could be spotted wearing their “43” bracelets, inscribed with the phrase, “I know God’s working so I smile.”

The Lutzie 43 Foundation is grateful to Under Armour for their continual support and partnership. Through their support, the Foundation is able to reach young athletes with Philip’s story and the life-changing message we have to tell.