As we read here and elsewhere about gangs, drugs and lost opportunities, it is important to remember that a lost future is not destiny for an inner city child.
Ray Rice, Baltimore Raven running back and New Rochelle native, was written up just this week in an Herald Review article.
The article chronicles Ray’s tough start in a rough neighborhood of New Rochelle. The talks about how early on in his life, Ray worked towards his dreams, despite obstacles and against odds.
I met Ray Rice at a Trinity Elementary School event in June 2009. He was kind enough to meet with winning classes for a PTA event. He spoke to the children and was absolutely great. He is a Trinity graduate, then Isaac Young and NRHS.
Ray told the children to do their homework, be fit, not give up and study hard. He said every small achievement was a step towards further success. He said winning the PTA event (Walking Wednesdays) was something to be proud of and to do more and more positive steps. He loved field day at Trinity, particularly cross country.
Ironically Ray’s 1st grade teacher, still at Trinity, was a WW winner. She got emotional when she saw him in her classroom again. Ray hugged her. Ray told her students which chair he sat in and pointed out her reward chart still in the same place. He told them to be doctors, lawyers and professional football players, whatever they wanted, and that all is possible here in the United States and being from New Rochelle and Trinity. He said to participate and practice whatever they wanted to get better and better.
Ray Rice, I wish you continued success in your career and your life! Please continue to be an inspiration to our young people.
Don’t miss this great article — Ravens’ Rice is determined to give back as much as he can.
