Winning the Prepared for Life (PFL) Scholarship is a tremendous honor and something I will carry with pride. My name is Brooks Brien, and as a football player from Cherokee Bluff High School heading to Wingate University to play quarterback, I understand what it means to work hard, lead with integrity, and represent something greater than myself. Being selected as a PFL Scholarship recipient is not only humbling—it’s personal. It means I now get to be part of a legacy that I’ve admired for years, one that has deep meaning in my life and my family’s.
Coming from a family that has gone to Auburn University for four generations, I grew up knowing who Philip Lutzenkirchen was—more than just a football player, he was a leader, a man of character, and someone who left an impact that still echoes today. The fact that he wore the Auburn jersey and stood for the kind of values my family and I believe in makes receiving this scholarship feel incredibly special. It’s more than a recognition—it’s a responsibility I proudly accept.
Growing up in a close-knit family, I’ve been fortunate to be surrounded by strong examples of leadership and humility. I’ve learned that leadership isn’t always loud—it often means setting the tone through actions, not just words. Whether it’s leading my teammates on the field, volunteering in my community, or even being a reliable older sibling, I’ve always tried to be someone others can count on. And outside of football, you’ll most likely find me outdoors—hunting, fishing, or golfing. That’s a huge part of who I am. I value time outside because it gives me space to think, reflect, and stay grounded in a fast-paced world.
As a quarterback, I’ve learned that being a leader means staying calm under pressure, putting the team first, and holding yourself accountable—especially when the spotlight is on you. Those lessons apply not only on the field, but also on the road and in life. That’s why the Lutzie 43 Foundation’s 43 Key Seconds Safe Driving Checklist hit home for me. Today’s world is full of distractions—phones, notifications, peer pressure—but taking 43 seconds before turning on the ignition can mean the difference between life and death. I’ve taken the 43 Key Seconds Pledge because I believe it’s my responsibility to be a safe driver and protect the lives of everyone in my vehicle and around me.
This application process has changed the way I view driving. I used to think being a “good driver” just meant following traffic laws. Now, I understand that it’s about being mentally present, removing distractions, and making intentional choices before I even start the car.
Whether I’m driving teammates to practice or heading to a fishing spot before sunrise, I take those extra moments to ensure that I’m distraction-free and focused. The 43 Key Seconds Checklist gives me time to prepare, physically and mentally, and it reminds me that every trip deserves my full attention.
Philip Lutzenkirchen’s story and the 43 Lessons to Legacy curriculum taught me that true leadership means being available to others, being accountable even when no one is watching, and always living with character. These are values I’ve always tried to live by, but now I feel even more driven to pass them on. I want to represent the Lutzie 43 Foundation with honor—as a safe driver, as a leader, and as someone who understands that one choice can change everything.
Being outdoors has also taught me the value of patience, focus, and respect for the world around me—qualities that connect directly to safe driving and personal discipline. Whether I’m setting up for a hunt or waiting quietly on the lake, I’ve learned to be intentional and present in the moment. That same mindset carries over into everything I do—from preparing for a football game, to leading others, to making responsible choices behind the wheel.
As I prepare to begin this new chapter of my life at Wingate University, I know I’ll face challenges—both on the field and off—but I’m ready to meet them with the mindset this scholarship has helped shape. I’ll be representing not only my school and team, but also the Lutzie 43 Foundation and the principles it stands for. I will continue to live out Philip’s legacy through my words, my actions, and my leadership. Whether it’s speaking to younger athletes about the importance of responsibility or being the voice in the car that says, “Hey, let’s put the phones away,” I’ll do my part to make sure others understand what this scholarship is all about.
I’m incredibly thankful to the Lutzenkirchen family and the entire Lutzie 43 Foundation team for giving me this opportunity. You’ve taken a heartbreaking loss and turned it into something powerful—something that is saving lives. I’m proud to be one of the many young people impacted by this foundation, and I’m committed to paying it forward every chance I get.
Philip’s life left a legacy that continues to grow, and I am honored to now be a part of it. Whether I’m in the classroom, on the field, or enjoying a quiet day outdoors, I’ll keep carrying those lessons with me—leading with character, driving with purpose, and living Prepared for Life.